Chamber News

Patrick Board of Supervisors Meet on September 27-2010

The Patrick County Board of Supervisors Meeting on September 27, 2010, in Stuart, VA. As reported by Tom Bishop

Roger Hayden Recommends Reduction in Personal Property Tax Rate Roger Hayden, Supervisors from the Dan River District, made a motion to lower the Personal Property Tax rate from 1.71 to 1.26 effective with July 2011. This would be a 45% reduction taking the rate back to 1997 levels. He believes this is the most unfair tax. Lock Boyce seconded the motion. The motion lost 4-1 with only Roger voting for it. Most board members felt this should be considered in conjunction with the budget preparation for the next fiscal year. Board to Go Public And Advertise the County Administrator Job On a vote of 4-1, the Board decided to advertise with VACO and local newspapers for the County Administrator position being vacated by Jay Scudder. Roger Hayden voted No because he wanted them to hire a consulting firm to help do a more comprehensive search, which could potentially cost $12,000. Most board members felt they could handle the search internally, and all board members would review all applications to determine the best candidates. Tom Rose Will Be The Interim County Administrator By a unanimous vote the board decided to let Mr. Tom Rose, Assistant County Administrator serve as Interim County Administrator, when Jay Scudder departs. This will insure that all routine business of the County continues un-interrupted. It was felt that hiring a separate person as they did the last time would be unnecessary and expensive. VACO Conference Roger Hayden, Crystal Harris and Tom Rose will attend the impending VACO conference, representing Patrick County. Roger Hayden will be serving on the Technology Committee. Halloween Trick Or Treat Night Set The Board decided unanimously to set the Halloween Trick or Treat Night in Patrick County on Saturday, October 30, from 5:00pm-9:00pm, as recommended by Sheriff Dan Smith. This is believed to be the best night, since Sheriff Deputies will be on duty and available to assist on Saturday. Neighboring Henry County has selected Monday, November 1st. Water and Sewer Update by Jay Scudder Jay reported that the project is making good progress, with water service being available in the near future. Phase II for the Patrick Springs Elementary School, needs an environmental clearance from the USDA in Richmond. Jay is hopeful that a simple amendment to the existing environmental study will be approved soon and bidding can begin. Executive Session The Board took a 10 minute break at 7:13 p. m. and went into Executive Session afterward to discuss personnel matters. The Board reconvened at 8:22 p. m. and voted unanimously to cover the contractual obligations to Jay Scudder and pay his vacation and sick pay when he leaves on October 19. There will be no severance pay, according to his contract. Jay will make his final report to the Board of Supervisors on Monday, October 18. Roger Hayden Reported on Courthouse Renovations Roger reported the Courthouse renovations are underway. A new sidewalk has been constructed. The 2 trees directly in front of the Courthouse steps have been removed. The other trees left will be professionally trimmed at the appropriate season to allow the Confederate statue monument to be visible again. Roger expressed his thanks to Judge Martin Clark for his support for the project. Roger expressed his thanks to Sheriff Dan Smith for the inmate work on the fence and other things. Meadows of Dan Recreation Park The Board voted unanimously to reimburse the Meadows of Dan Recreation Park for $1345 to cover damages to the batting cage which was damaged by a storm. This was paid for by an insurance policy. The Park had asked for $5600 for reimbursement for light poles, but they will only be reimbursed for $4000 which had been set aside for each of the County Parks. Meeting Adjourned At 8:33 p. m.