Summary of the Board of Supervisors Meeting - April
SUMMARY OF NELSON COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
APRIL 14, 2026 MEETING
PRESENT: Supervisors Jesse Rutherford, A. Cameron Lenahan, Jessical Ligon, Ernie Reed, and David Parr
ALL REFERENCED DOCUMENTS IN THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS’ (BOS) PACKET can be found by going to https://www.nelsoncounty-va.gov/government/board-of-supervisors/, clicking on the calendar, April 14, 2026 and clicking on the 2:00 meeting announcement. It will be on left side of the page, 3rd item listed just above the agenda.!!!
I. The meeting was CALLED TO ORDER followed by a Moment of Silence and the Pledge of Allegiance.
II. PUBLIC COMMENTS:
1) Heath Matysek-Snyder: lives in New Land Community and deeply opposes the Monroe Institutes Institute’s application for a special use permit. The proposed project is in direct opposition to the goals set forth in the County’s comprehensive plan. It will destroy sensitive resources, adversely affect the view line of the community, and increase strain on the infrastructure of the community. It’s a ridgeline development. It is akin to a hotel and will not protect the rural character. It will adversely affect the safety of the roads for the children in the community. The area is not in a designated growth area.
2) Stephanie Matysek-Snyder: This is a huge commercial enterprise and will adversely affect the water supply. Bob Monroe no longer owns the institute, its ownership is overseas. It is a terrible precedent for the rest of the county.
3) Robert Gubisch: Bigger is not better. The water level in his well has dropped substantially. There is nothing to suggest that the proposed development will not substantially adversely the water supply.
4) Paul de Voursney: objected to the special use permit requested by the Monroe Institute on the grounds that the local water supply had already run low in a neighbors well and this conference center was going to require 10,000 gallons per day from the local stream. No testing was put forward to support that such water flow is possible.
5) Jim Childress: addressed the eye sore and fire hazard created by the burnt out hotel and delipidated Howard Johnson’s abandoned at the top of Afton at the intersection of Routes. 250 and 64 and the Blue Ridge Parkway. They are a meeting place for drug sales and use as well as a place for squatters. There is no water electricity or sanitation available. Please work with Albemarle clean the sight up.
6) Erin Harris, Nelson County Virginia Cooperative Extension: came to report on the activities of the Extension. They sponsor among other activities 4H. She thanked the Board for its support. Among other sponsored activities, she reported 12 youth from two clubs participated in two competitions which strengthen skills in public speaking. They are continuing to sponsor summer 4H camps and a program in the schools required before students may show animals at fairs. Training across county in pesticides. The presentation contained a lot oof detail and may be viewed at minutes 16:35 to 21:33 of the afternoon YouTube recording, part 1. She did not request money from the Board at this time but said they were reaching out to local businesses for sponsorships.
7) Margaret Clair, spoke in favor of fully funding the school system as education is the key to bringing more jobs and families to the county.
8) Stephen Bayne: raised the issue of continued discharges from the Wintergreen Water and Sewage Treatment Facility which he maintains is contaminating the local stream.
9) Raennah Mitchell: opposes the special use permit requested by the Monroe Institute on the grounds that the local water supply cannot accommodate the increased demand it would cause and the road cannot handle the traffic. She further contends that granting the permit would set a terrible precedent.
III. CONSENT AGENDA: The Board unanimously approved the following resolutions:
A. Resolution - R2026-25 Minutes for Approval:
“RESOLVED, by the Nelson County Board of Supervisors that the minutes of said Board meetings conducted on February 26, 2025, August 27, 2025, October 22, 2025, December 17, 2025 and January 13, 2026 be and hereby are approved and authorized for entry into the official record of the Board of Supervisors meetings”
B. Resolution – R2026-26 Budget Amendment:
I. Appropriation of Funds (General Fund)
Amount Revenue Account (-) Expenditure Account (+)
$300.00 3-100-001899-0019 4-100-022010-7029
$937. 13 3-100-003303-0107 4-100-031020-1013
$1,244.50 3-100-001401-0002 4-100-031020-7017
$1,333.25 3-100-001401-0002 4-100-031020-7017
$2,260.42 3-100-001899-0008 4-100-091030-5202
$3,027.48 3-100-002404-0049 4-100-032010-5504
$9,354.00 3-100-002404-0017 4-100-999000-9905
$18,456.78
II. Transfer of Funds (General Fund Non-Recurring Contingency)
Amount Credit Account (-) Debit Account (+)
$2,500.00 4-100-999000-9905 4-100-081020-7072
$23,862.00 4-100-999000-9905 4-100-031020-5415
$26,362.00
EXPLANATION OF BUDGET AMENDMENT
I. Appropriations are the addition of unbudgeted funds received or held by the County for use within the current fiscal year budget. These funds increase the budget bottom line. The General Fund Appropriations of $18,456.78 include requests of (1) $300.00 appropriation requested for Run Recover Rise 5K funds received in April 2026; (2) $937.13 appropriation requested for Sheriff's DEA Task Force Grant funding for February 2026; (3)(4) $1,244.50 and $1,333.25 appropriation requests for Sheriff's E-ticket revenue received in February and March 2026, respectively; (5) $2,260.42 appropriation requested for FY26 Opioid Abatement Funding received in November 2025; (6) $3,027.48 appropriation request for FY26 PSAP (Public Safety Answering Points) Education Program grant for 9-1-1 for FY25 Circuit Court CCRP grant funds received in FY26. The total appropriation request for this period is below the 1% of expenditure budget limit of $1,004,737.38 for April.
II. Transfers represent funds that are already appropriated in the budget but are moved from one line item to another. Transfers do not affect the bottom line of the budget. Transfers from General Fund Non-Recurring Contingency in the amount of $26,362.00 are requested for (1) $2,500 to cover the local match requirement of the VTC Vacation Starts with VA DMO grant award; and (2) $23,862 for funding of Cellbrite software and equipment as authorized by the Board of Supervisors on March 10, 2026 by Resolution R2026-16.Following approval of these expenditures, the balance of Recurring Contingency will be$26,469.04. The balance of Non-Recurring Contingency will be $330,122.42.
C. Resolution – R2026-27 Tax Refund:
“RESOLVED, by the Nelson County Board of Supervisors that the following refunds, as certified by the Nelson County Commissioner of Revenue and County Attorney pursuant to §58.1-3219.5 of the Code of Virginia, be and hereby are approved for payment.
Amount Tax Category Payee $2,705.63 Real Property Charles D. Felling 630 White Oak Roseland, VA 22967 Tax Map # 11A 3 630”
D. Resolution – R2026-28 Public Safety Telecommunicators Week
“WHEREAS, emergencies can occur at any time that require law enforcement, fire or emergency medical services; and
WHEREAS, when an emergency occurs the prompt response of law enforcement, firefighters and paramedics is critical to the protection of life and preservation of property; and,
WHEREAS, the safety of our first responders is dependent upon the quality and accuracy of information obtained from citizens who telephone into the Nelson County Emergency Communications Center; and
WHEREAS, Public Safety Telecommunicators are the first and most critical contact our citizens have with emergency services; and
WHEREAS, Public Safety Telecommunicators are the single vital link for our deputies and firefighters by monitoring their activities by radio, providing them information and insuring their safety; and
WHEREAS, each dispatcher has exhibited compassion, understanding and professionalism during the performance of their job in the past year;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Nelson County Board of Supervisors declares the week of April 12-18, 2026 as National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week in Nelson County, in honor of the men and women whose diligence and professionalism keep our county and citizens safe.
E. Resolution – R2026-29 Animal Care and Control Appreciation Week:
“WHEREAS, the National Animal Care & Control Association (NACA) is committed to setting the standard of professionalism in animal welfare and public safety through training, networking, and advocacy; and
WHEREAS, animal care and control professionals dedicate their lives to the health and safety of at-risk and helpless animals; and
WHEREAS, animal care and control professionals work to rescue and protect animals from injury, disease, abuse, and starvation; and
WHEREAS, NACA has designated the second full week of April as Animal Care and Control Officer Appreciation Week; and
WHEREAS, federal, state, and local government officials throughout the nation take this time to recognize, thank, and commend all animal care and control professionals for the dedicated services they perform and for fulfilling the commitment to providing the highest and most efficient level of customer service;
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Nelson County Board of Supervisors does hereby recognize April 12-18, 2026, as ANIMAL CARE AND CONTROL APPRECIATION WEEK in Nelson County, and we call this observance to the attention of our citizens”
F. Resolution – R2026-30 April is Fair Housing Month: Fair Housing Act (Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968, as amended by the Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1988); and
“WHEREAS, the Fair Housing Act provides that no person shall be subjected to discrimination because of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, or familial status in the rental, sale, financing or advertising of housing, and the Virginia Fair Housing Law also prohibits housing discrimination based on elderliness; and
WHEREAS, the Fair Housing Act supports equal housing opportunity throughout the United States; and
WHEREAS, fair housing creates healthy communities and housing discrimination harms us all;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Nelson County Board of Supervisors supports equal housing opportunity and seeks to affirmatively further fair housing not only during Fair Housing Month in April, but throughout the year.”
G. Resolution – R2026-31 April is Child Abuse Prevention Month:
“WHEREAS, Child Abuse Prevention Month is observed each April to raise awareness of the importance of preventing child abuse and neglect and to affirm our community’s shared responsibility to support children and families; and
WHEREAS, child abuse and neglect remain serious public health and social concerns affecting children and families across our region; and
WHEREAS, strong families, supportive relationships, and engaged communities contribute to positive outcomes for children; and
WHEREAS, prevention and early intervention efforts — including education, family support, and community engagement — help strengthen protective factors for children and caregivers; and
WHEREAS, collaborative partnerships among families, schools, community organizations, faith groups, health care providers, law enforcement, and Departments of Social Services enhance our
community’s coordinated response to child abuse and neglect; and
WHEREAS, Children’s Advocacy Centers (CACs) are codified in the Code of Virginia as part of the Commonwealth’s response to child abuse and neglect, serving as the neutral, child-focused setting for forensic interviews, medical examinations, family advocacy, and multidisciplinary team case review; and
WHEREAS, Foothills Children’s Advocacy Center has partnered for 20 years with law enforcement, the Department of Social Services, and the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office, conducting an average of more than 300 forensic interviews annually to support criminal investigations and prosecution efforts; and
WHEREAS, this community recognizes the importance of continued awareness, collaboration, and resources to support children and families impacted by abuse;
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Nelson County Board of Supervisors does hereby proclaim April 2026 as Child Abuse Prevention Month in Nelson County and urges all residents, community organizations, businesses, and institutions to renew their commitment to protecting children, supporting families, increasing awareness of child abuse prevention resources, and participating in activities that promote child well-being.”
H. Proclamation – P2026-01 Month of the Military Child:
“WHEREAS, the United States Department of War has consistently acknowledged the vital roof military children and youth; and
WHEREAS, the resilient young individuals demonstrate unwavering commitment, adaptability, and courage in the face of unique challenges; and
WHEREAS, military children contribute significantly to the strength and resilience of our military families and communities; and
WHEREAS, their sacrifices often go unnoticed, yet they play an essential role in supporting the military’s mission; and
WHEREAS, the Month of the Military Child provides an opportunity to celebrate their achievements, honor their past, cherish the present, and shape a brighter future; and
THEREFORE, let it be known that we recognize and appreciate the contributions of military children and youth, and we commit to providing them with quality care and positive youth development, and
BE IT HEREBY PROCLAIMED that the Nelson County Board of Supervisors does hereby declare April 2026 as the Month of the Military Child and calls upon the individual citizens, government agencies, churches, and civic organizations, in Nelson County, Virginia, to observe the month with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities as a way to bring our mission and vision into reality.”
I. Resolution – R2026-32 Lovingston Volunteer Fire Department Fireworks Funding:
“BE IT RESOLVED that the Nelson County Board of Supervisors approves Lovingston Volunteer Fire Department’s request for $12,000 for the July 4th Fireworks show, which is tentatively scheduled to take place at Nelson County High School and Middle School Complex on July 4, 2026.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Lovingston Volunteer Fire Department agrees to remit any leftover funds back to the County, should the invoiced amount come in below $12,000.”
IV. PRESENTATIONS
A. VDOT Report: Mr. Robert Brown presented on behalf of VDOT. VDOTT is working to finish the work on Davis Creek Road, Hunting Lodge Road, and Jenny’s Creek Road. On Hunting Lodge Road, they have worked on drainage structure. VDOT has worked on pipe replacements and will continue on to the first of the year (July 1). The litter contractor to be in Nelson in the next two weeks. Litter collection will start first on the main and larger roads.
Supervisor Rutherford thanked VDOT for looking at the proposed signage locations in Lovingston. Supervisor Rutherford inquired whether Mill Pond Road come into the rural rustic road list. Mr. Brown said its approximately 1.3 mile road and has 80 vehicles a day and therefore qualifies to be paved. Supervisor Rutherford also inquired about Fortune’s Cove adjacent to the walking trail. The road is about half a mile and should be able to qualify for paving in the next 3-4 years.
Supervisor Lanahan raised a pothole just before on Aedile on Route 6 and would Mr. Brown please look Howardsville Turnpike.
Supervisor Parr raised putting Blue Rock Lane across from Jonesboro Church on the list.
Supervisor Reed inquired about the status of a cross walk on 151 in Nellysford. Mr. Brown he would follow up. Mr. Reed suggested a pedestrian count.
Supervisor Liggon said there are leaning trees on Route 56 from Shipman to Lovingston. The mailman is leaving notes in peoples mailboxes on Laurel Road before the Y and requesting that holes be filled in.
B. VDOT Secondary Six Year Plan Work Session (R2026-33): Mr. Brown said there are no new projects in the plan because costs are up and funds are limited. He suggests taking the lists as is until we know how the costs come out at the end of the year. (See exhibit 3)
The Board unanimously agreed voted to approve the following resolution adding Fortunes Cove, Mill Pond Lane, and Blue Rock Lane to the list above:
“WHEREAS, The Virginia Department of Transportation and the Board of Supervisors of Nelson County, in accordance with Sections 33.2-331 and 33.2-332 of the Code of Virginia, are required to conduct a public hearing to receive public comment on the proposed Secondary Six-Year Plan for Fiscal Years 2027 through 2032 in Nelson County and on the Secondary System Construction Budget for Fiscal Year 2027as modified,
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that a public hearing will be held for this purpose in the General District Courtroom of the Nelson County Courthouse, 84 Courthouse Square, Lovingston, Virginia at 7:00 pm on Tuesday, May 12, 2026”
V. NEW & UNFINISHED BUSINESS
A. Authorization for Public Hearing on FY27 Budget (R2026-34): Grace Mawyer, director of the Department of Finance presented the attached budget with the slides showing the next steps necessary to pass the 2026-2027 budget.
The Board unanimously approved and adopted the attached resolution.
“BE IT RESOLVED, by the Nelson County Board of Supervisors, that pursuant to §15.2-2503, and §15.2-2506 of the Code of Virginia 1950 as amended, that a public hearing on the FY27 Budget is hereby authorized to be held on Tuesday, May 12, 2026 at 7:00 P.M. in the General District Courtroom of the Courthouse in Lovingston, Virginia.”
B. In-House Vehicle Outfitting Proposal: Sheriff Mark Embrey presented the letter set forth below to the Board with detailed supporting back up. Having heard the request explained and having reviewed the supporting data, The Board unanimously agreed to authorize Sheriff Embrey to start an employee search for the position with the expectation that the position would be fully funded at the Board’s Budget meeting. The fact that no additional space would have to be financed by the county for the work to be done as suitable space is owned by the county and is empty/unused and the possibility that other agencies might pay to utilize the employee if the County did not have enough work for him/her at any particular moment to provide for full time employment was persuasive as was cutting the delay in bringing vehicles on line for use after their purchase or when equipment repairs or new equipment installation was needed.
VI. REPORTS, APPOINTMENTS, DIRECTIVES AND CORRESPONDENCE
A. Reports
1. County Administrator’s Report for April 14, 2026
A. DSS Building Project: Building progress is moving along now that the slab has been installed; with framing and masonry work in process. A water main break occurred just above the site, causing excess water to disrupt work temporarily for a couple of days. Coleman Adams says there is no impact from this to the overall schedule and no additional costs have been submitted as a result, other than a clogged drainage pipe that needs to be flushed. I am consulting with NCSA on their ability/willingness to flush the pipe and we have submitted information on the incident to the County’s Builder’s Risk Insurance carrier - VACorp.
Department of Social Services: I had previously reported that all Advisory Board Members had completed training; however, there were a couple that had not. Completion of the training and initial meeting is forthcoming.
B. 2026 Reassessment and Real Property Tax Rate Public Hearing: Appointments are being scheduled through County Administration for the May sessions of the Board of Equalization Hearings. The Board will conduct its public hearing on the advertised Real Property tax rate of $0.58 on Thursday, April 16th at 7pm in the General District Courtroom.
C. Transfer Station Tipping Floor Replacement: The project is under contract and a Notice to Proceed has been issued to Anglers LLC from Leesburg, VA. Permitting and site preparation will occur over the next week, with the project start date pending issuance of local permits. This date will be announced as soon as it is known. The public and commercial customers are to continue to bring their waste to the Transfer Station until a closure date is announced. Our neighbors in Amherst are poised and ready to accept our waste temporarily but the work is done and they are expected to work daily from 6:30am – 5pm. A more definitive project timeline will be provided once the permits have been issued. Access to the Transfer Station will be barricaded off to the public while providing access to the Animal Shelter. County maintenance and transfer station staff will be working on rehabilitation of the Scale House during the closure period. ONLY after we are closed. Once started, Anglers will be on site until
D. Wintergreen Wastewater Treatment Plant: NCSA is continuing to work with DEQ, CHA, Ovivo, and English Construction towards conducting the plant performance testing; a test plan has been accepted by NCSA and CHA and will occur once agreed upon optimal testing parameters exist. NCSA is also working with CHA and DEQ to document an acceptable short-term solution to the EQ basin overflows and to document a long-term solution to the overall plant performance. Pursuant to State Code section 2.2-3705.7 (15-ii) information held by the Department of Environmental Quality relating to enforcement strategies, including proposed sanctions for enforcement actions are excluded from public release under FOIA. This is applicable during the draft/negotiation phase, which is the current status.
E. Library Repairs: Matching brick is expected to take 6-8 weeks for delivery as it is not in stock and will have to be made. Once all materials are available and weather permitting, the repairs should take a week to complete.
F. Virginia Piedmont Tourism Region: The Virginia Tourism Corporation (VTC) has approved the creation of a new tourism marketing region “Virginia Piedmont” as was previously endorsed by the Board of Supervisors. The Virginia Piedmont” region aligns with GO Virginia Region 9 and is comprised of those same localities “to organize tourism assets within these defined geographic areas and present those experiences to travelers through a variety of marketing channels.”
G. Admissions Tax Committee: An initial kick-off meeting of the committee is scheduled for April 17th. This committee consists of 5 staff members, 2 BOS members, and 5 stakeholders associated with larger events in the community. The kickoff meeting will briefly cover: the Committee’s purpose, an overview of Admissions Tax, the current landscape and benchmarking, key policy considerations, stakeholder impacts, Committee goals and work plan, public input strategy, and pros and cons.
Key Questions to be explored include but are not limited to:
• What tax rate balances revenue generation with competitiveness?
• Which events or organizations (if any) should be exempt?
• How will the tax be administered and enforced efficiently and equitably?
• How will revenue be used?
• Will that use build public support? and
• What have peer localities experienced post-implementation?
H. Monitoring of Conditions for an Open Burn Ban: County Staff are currently monitoring conditions and consulting with Fire Chiefs, the Forestry Department, and the Sheriff on the advisement of a local open burn ban, given the current severe drought conditions, high levels of forest fuel, and the 10-day outlook of no measurable rain. John Adkins, as the Director of Emergency Services, may make this declaration of local emergency with the consent of the BOS and then confirmation of the declaration by the Board at a meeting within 45 days of the declaration is required.
I. FY25-26 Budget: With just under three (3) months remaining of the fiscal year, staff is monitoring the budget closely. Revenues and expenditures overall are currently tracking as expected with no concerns identified at this point.
J. Former Larkin Property: CHA has solicited quotes from well drillers (including local ones) for quotes to provide the installation of the test wells and draw down testing. So far one has declined and the others are still in the process of reviewing the information to decide if they want to provide a quote. A Bedford well driller met with CHA on site last week to evaluate the site access and the identified locations. They have indicated that they expect to have responses later this week or early next week.
K. Joint Meeting with Planning Commission – Zoning Ordinance: Wednesday, April 22, 2026 at 5 pm
L. Meals and Lodging Tax Collection & Lodging Entity Tracking: See Attached Charts - Lodging Units went from 844 to 850. TOT and Meals taxes collected FY to date respectively are $2,272,095 and $1,201,748 with three (3) months remaining.
M. Staff Reports: Department and office reports for March/April have been
2. Board Reports:
Supervisor Jesse Rutherford: attended the TJPDC meeting where the budget and reorganization were discussed. He is looking to get preliminary data from the Nelson . housing from the regional housing partnership. He also went to Richmond for classes.
Supervisor Cameron Lenahan: attended Albemarle Regional Jail Board meeting and the Virginia Career Works. The jail seems well run. The operating fund is showing a surplus. Of the 303 inmates in the jail, 30 are from Nelson County. The County’s share of the budget will be up to $2 million. Virginia Career Works anticipates losing 10,300 jobs in 2026. Charlottesville is anticipated to get a direct airline flight to Boston. It should have about $21 million in economic impact to the area.
Supervisor Jessica Ligon: attended the Planning Commission meeting, the results of which are on the Board’s evening docket.
Supervisor Ernie Reed: He was out of town and missed the budget meeting but attended the meeting with the Service Authority and DEQ as documented in Candy’s report.
Supervisor David Parr: the Emergency Service Board met and approved the presentation Sherriff Embrey heard at tonight’s meeting.
3) Appointments: The vacancies listed below do not have candidates at this time.
C. Correspondence:
1. Region 2000 Settlement Proposal: the attached letter was received by the Board from Campbell County and was discussed in closes session.
D. Directives: None
VII. CLOSED SESSION PURSUANT TO §2.2-3711 (A)(7) & (A)(8)
VIII. OTHER BUSINESS (AS PRESENTED)
IX. ADJOURN AND CONTINUE – EVENING SESSION AT 7PM
EVENING SESSION
7:00 P.M. – NELSON COUNTY COURTHOUSE
I. The evening meeting was CALLED TO ORDER.
II. PUBLIC COMMENTS
Karen Decot: Concerned about the influx of people who will be using the proposed campground and the affects on water, sewage, stress on animal environment, trash, dog fights, noise pollution, light pollution and a number of other concerns. Vote no to the campground.
Paul Davis: Opposed generally to special use permits. They change the land and the community forever. The stipulations are not readily accessible to the public and there is no published methodology for enforcing the limits on the special use permit.
Justin Shimp: The changes in property tax at 17% is serious and expenses are not going up at rate. The last assessment hit at what may be the height of the market.er The County needs to look for other sources of tax revenue.
III. PUBLIC HEARINGS:
A. Special Use Permit #250358 – Conference Center in A-1 Agriculture District
Consideration of a Special Use Permit application requesting County approval of a conference center use in the A-1 Agriculture District, located at The Monroe Institute, 365 Roberts Mountain Road in Faber. The subject property is further identified as Tax Map Parcels #33-3-2D, 34-12-3, 34-A-35, 34-12-4, 33-5-1C, 34-12-1, and 34-12-2 which total 53.58 acres and is owned by The Monroe Institute and The Centre Inc.
Justin Shimp; presented on behalf of The Monroe Institute. The new center would mean that a “tourist attraction” was created on the Route 29 corridor. The taxes generated from the increase in the property’s value, meals taxes, and transient occupancy tax would be approximately $340,000 per annum. This revenue could keep 1435 homes valued at 300,000 or less would not need to pay the higher tax rate. Ten new jobs would be created bringing the employees to 45. It helps created diversity in the tourism as it is not alcohol based attraction. The traffic impact would be relatively light because the guests don’t travel away from the conference center during the day. After the tree buffer is installed, only one residence would have a clear view of the conference center which would be the roof.
Public Comments:
Chuck Ketchel: Resident of New Land. It is an idyllic environment thanks to the Monroe Institute which has kept 350 acres undeveloped except for a cattle farm. There is lake created by the Monroe Institute the use of which is gifted to the local inhabitants. The people who attend are living a monastery type life and they don’t leave the property much. This conference center is unlikely to negatively impact the community.
Connie Muscenti: she would be personally hurt by the proposed Special Use permit. She has already moved from Crozet because of how a special use permit morphed into 2400 units housing units. This project is a radical reinvention of this environment which should be protected by our comprehensive plan.
Colin Ramirez: the New Land has only one entrance which is just down the road from the Institute. He is a retired physician. He doubts this is a health and wellness destination. He also doubts that the make-up of the board of directors is local any more. The director of the Institute said she was not wedded to this project being located in Nelson County. If the project is approved and later sold, any hotel or for profit business could aquire the land and improvements. This proposed development effectively destroys any protection this área has of being able to remain rural.
Paul de Voursney: The mission of the Monroe Institute is wonderful. However, we have no real knowledge of who these visitors are or what they believe. Ninety people create a serious crowd control problem.
Nancy Dunbar: the vistas of New Land are breath taking. The debate is on the proposed building not whether the Monroe Institute is good or bad. Would we even be having this discussion of the proposal wasn’t sponsored by the Monroe Institute? This definitely changes the character of the area.
Jana Cruder: the environment can be preserved with the guardrails/conditions currently appearing on the special use permit application. She supports the application for the special use permit.
Kacey Wilson: She is a licensed clinical psychologist. She has been involved with an even larger institute in the Berkshires successfully integrated with the community. She doesn’t yet have a position on whether it’s a good idea but she feels there should be a win/win situation here.
Craig Schwartz: he and his wife are retired professionals who have attended 25 sessions at the Monroe Institute. He has never seen any of the issues or behaviors that have been suggested at this meeting. It is a serious institute with serious attendees who are trying to address life’s big questions.
Richard Averitt: He is the Central District’s member on the Planning Commission. He was away when the Planning Commission made its recommendation. He has great respect for the Monroe institute and its purposes but the structure they are trying to build is not compatible with comprehensive plan and violates the compact the county has made with its citizens. This has to be looked at in the same light as the proposal of any other developer of a resort such as Hilton or Bon Jovi. Had Mr. Averitt been present at the planning commission meeting considering this proposal, he would have voted no.
Megan Eckles: She is verry concerned about the affects the proposed conference center would have on the area’s water supply which is already experiencing problems. She is also concerned for the demographics of the area (ie families with young children) and are very concerned about safety of our children who currently wander the area freely in safety)
Heath Matysek-Snyder: still opposes the proposal should be rejected. He addressed the water problem. The water usage of the additional attendees based on national averages would result in an additional 6000 gallon per day draw down of the existing water supply. The walking population of Monroe participants past the New Land Homes will be greatly increased and it doesn’t feel safe. The proposed building will be twice the size of the Lovingston Food Lion, be constructed on a ridge and adversely affect the character of the area.
Stephanie Matysek-Snyder: reiterated her comments/concerns from the morning meeting. She repeated her request that the vote now.
Kim Maimone : she opposes the project. She objects to the size of the project, its implications for the already overtaxed water system, the additional traffic on what are small roads, and how the project will change the New Land community. It doesn’t fit the requirements of the comprehensive plan. She requested that the Board vote no.
Justin Maimon: He moved to New Land as a safe place to raise his family. He has done the Monroe programs and appreciates their work. It was his child who found the gun on the dock owned and left there by one of the Monroe Institute participants. The project is too big. Make it smaller. It doesn’t fit with the current structures of the institute. Please vote no.
Angi Hicks: Her husband’s family farm that has been owned by the family since the 1940s. The family farm borders 4 of the 11 parcels of land including the parcel that would house the actual conference center. The project is not compatible with the Comprehensive Plan and approval would not make us good stewards of the land.
Ron Blake : is the treasurer of the homeowners association. From his research, he has determined that The Monroe Institute board of directors is not the board of 15 years ago. Looking at the bios of the current board members. He pointed out Julie Gilbert, the global technology entrepreneur and growth strategists who has worked for numerous companies who are disrupters and been engages in unlimited growth. This project is not compatible with the area.
Kathy Versluy: has a small business (Acorn Inn) on Aedile Road and the Monroe Institute has been a good neighbor. This building is too big and doesn’t fit where they want to put it.
Bill Mattox: His home abuts the Monroe Institute. He would like the Monroe Institute that if the project is approved, that the rest of the Institutes land be placed in a conservation easement.
Robin Ebelherr: She is very concerned that the wonderful, integrated neighborhood she lives in will be altered. The Monroe Institute and the visitors of the Monroe Institute have lived in harmony. The expansion of the number of participants changes everything. The locals acknowledge the need for growth and diversity but not on this scale.
The Board tabled the matter on the condition that the rescheduled date be at a regularly scheduled board meeting where the hearing appears on the published docket. Supervisor Reed said that his correspondence reflected water as the primary issue. Supervisor Rutherford pointed out that the DEQ and other state agencies such as VDH will review this proposal if it is approved by the Board.
B. Rezoning #250339 – R-1 Residential and M-1 Limited Industrial to M-2 Industrial
Consideration of a Rezoning application requesting County approval to rezone parcels zoned R-1 Residential (2742 Arrington Road, Tax Map Parcel #77-A-45, 1 acre), and M-1 Limited Industrial (2731 Arrington Road, Tax Map Parcels #77-3-1, 2, 77-A-5, 46, totaling approximately 3 acres), to M-2 Industrial, to align the current storage use of the properties with the appropriate zoning designation. The subject properties are owned by Jeremy & Elisabeth Hale, and Nelson Storage, LLC.
Public Comments: No Speakers
The Board tabled the motion. They admire the work that goes on at the location cleaning up the “trash litter and debris” and remodeling buildings in an attractive way which are compatible with the local architecture. However, The Board will generally look at rezoning throughout the county in 6 months in conjunction with the comprehensive plan that was recently passed and they do not want to engage in “piece meal” actions pending that rezoning process.
C. Special Use Permit #260024 – Restaurant (Coffee Shop) in A-1 Agriculture District
Consideration of a Special Use Permit application requesting County approval of a restaurant use for a coffee shop in the A-1 Agriculture District, located at the Rockfish Valley Volunteer Fire Department, 11100 Rockfish Valley Hwy in Afton. The subject property is further identified as Tax Map Parcel #7-A-9B, which totals 22.04 acres and is owned by the Rockfish Valley Volunteer Fire Department.
Public Comments:
Clay Stewart: spoke in favor of the permit. He felt based on his past experiences with drive throughs in conjunction with places like the Madison Airport, stacking of waiting cars don’t generally occur.
The Board in a 4-1 vote approved the Special Use permit with Supervisor Reed casting the dissenting vote. He was concerned that traffic caused by the drive through coffee would impede emergency vehicles attempting to leave the fire and rescue facility.
D. Special Use Permit #250263 – Campground in A-1 Agriculture District
Consideration of a Special Use Permit application requesting County approval of a campground use in the A-1 Agriculture District, located on Morse Lane in Arrington. The subject property is further identified as Tax Map Parcels #76-5-4 (35.92 acres) and #76-5-5 (77.5 acres) and is owned by Tim and Lori Beth Masters, and Nelson Morse Lane Land Trust, respectively.
Jeremy Hester: Representing property owners association, he objected to the campground. There is a train track bordering the proposed campground and the river. He has issues with this being an attractive nuisance for children. The roads are a nightmare for fire and rescue. There is already one failed campground in the area at Lake Nelson.
Clay Stewart: Environmental disaster likely on the site from the sewage disposal. The rock below the site lets sewage pass straight through.
Heather Decot: Tye River already fails the state water standards. Water availability is limited and sewage is clearly an issue. Fire risk is obvious but nationwide statistics show the vast majority of wildfire are human caused by humans and there is no way to prevent campers from building open fires.
Wanda Presley: This area is truly family oriented in a rural environment and this plan does not meet the comprehensive plan. Make it a tourist destination with increased traffic and demands on the infrastructure. She asked that the Board vote no.
David Morse: Please vote no. This campground will disrupt everything about the area.
The Board had a motion from Supervisor Reed to disapprove the Special Use Permit. The motion was seconded. The Board voted 3-2 to disapprove the Special Use Permit and the Special Use permit was therefor denied. Supervisors Lanahan and Rutherford were the dissenting votes.
IV. OTHER BUSINESS (AS PRESENTED): None
V. The meeting was ADJOURNED AND CONTINUED TO APRIL 16, 2026 AT 7:00 P.M. FOR A PUBLIC HEARING ON THE 2026 REAL ESTATE TAX RATE.
NELSON COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
APRIL 16, 2026
PRESENT: Supervisors Jesse Rutherford, A. Cameron Lenahan, Jessical Ligon, Ernie Reed, and David Parr
ALL REFERENCED DOCUMENTS IN THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS’ (BOS) PACKET can be found by going to https://www.nelsoncounty-va.gov/government/board-of-supervisors/, clicking on the calendar, April 16, 2026 and clicking on the 7:00 meeting announcement. It will be on left side of the page, 3rd item listed just above the agenda.!!!
I. The meeting was CALLED TO ORDER.
II. PUBLIC HEARING
Proposed 2026 Real Property Tax Rate:
Chronology of events.
Assessments of 16,613 parcels were conducted by Wampler-Eanes Appraisal Group (acquired by Vision Government Solutions) from October/November 2024 to October/November 2025. Notices of Assessment were mailed out to property owners in November 2025. Informal hearings with Assessors were held in December 2025. The Reassessment Book was certified by the Department of Taxation December 31, 2025 and is effective January 1, 2026. The Board of Equalization hearings were conducted in March 2026 and has scheduled dates for May 2026.
Results of the Reassessment.
The overall change in total real property values from 2025 to 2026 was 26.6%. This increase includes tax-exempt property values and values before “land use “valuations are applied. The change in taxable real property values from 2025 to 2026 was 31.5%: Individual property taxes may, however, increase at a percentage greater than or less than the above percentage.
2025 Adjusted Taxable Values from 11/14/25 Report $ 3,242,999,998
2026 Adjusted Taxable Values from 12/31/25 Report $ 4,265,402,098 % Change
Increase in Total Adjusted Values $ 1,022,402,100 31.5%
PUBLIC COMMENTS:
Ian Kelly: Just raising property taxes won’t solve the county’s financial problems. The commercial properties need to pay a higher rate and homes with absentee landlords which are rented out should be taxed at the commercial rate. If the Airbnbs were taxed as commercial establishments, their numbers would drop and those houses would bring down the cost of housing allowing families to buy in.
Donna Small: 58 cent tax rate will increase taxes by 18% under the current assessments and will thereby adversely affect low income persons and homeowners on fixed incomes. It will also pass through to renters . Please consider that in setting the tax rates.
Stephen Bayne: the proposed 57 cents rate would be an increase of 16% which is $3.4 million annually and $13.5 million over the next 4 years. This would be a major mistake. The increase is just not needed. Nelson County must do a better job of managing expenses. The cost of services needs to be clearly communicated to voters and let the voters decide. Nelson County has led the region in increases in local spending. The proposed 26/27 budget will exceed projected FYI 25/26 by 10%. County staff needs to reduce the costs. The $4,000,000 carry over needs to be made reserves and increasing tax taxes on admissions and the occupancy tax along with reductions in expenditures is the responsible path to making a reasonable budget.
Donna Hogston : This tax increase will hurt folks like herself. Please keep the taxes down.
Paul Davis : He is recently retired on a fixed income and the property taxes along with all the other inflation in the cost of living are really going to hurt him.
III. ESTABLISHMENT OF 2026 TAX RATES(R2026-35): The Board continued the matter until 7:00 pm on Monday, April 21, 2026 to await (hopefully) the outcome of the state budget and to assess its impact on the County’s budget and took no action at this time.
IV. ESTABLISHMENT OF 2026 PERSONAL PROPERTY TAX RELIEF (R2026-36): PPTRA Tax Discount Rate: The Board continued the matter until 7:00 pm on Monday, April 21, 2026 to await (hopefully) the outcome of the state budget and to assess its impact on the County’s budget and took no action at this time.
V. OTHER BUSINESS (AS PRESENTED): None
VI. The meeting was ADJOURNED AND CONTINUEDuntil:
1)7:00 pm on Monday, April 21, 2026, and
2) to April 22, 2026 at 5:00 P.M. for a joint work session with the Planning Commission.