VACo held its third Regional Meeting of the year on May 12 in Henrico County. Counties across VACo regions 3 and 5, as well as elected state and federal officials from around the regions, were invited to participate in the discussion. VACo was pleased to be joined by Delegate David Owen, Delegate Mark Earley and staff from the offices of Senator Mark Warner, Senator Tim Kaine, Representative John McGuire, Senator Ryan McDougle, Senator Luther Cifers, Senator Schuyler VanValkenburg, Delegate Michael Jones, Delegate Debra Gardner, and Delegate Rodney Willett. Delegate Owen stated that he always has a focus on legislation pertaining to development by way of his background. Delegate Earley stated his focus is on education, public safety and transportation. Both Delegates said they were thankful for the forum to hear directly from county leaders and that this helps develop their legislative agendas.
During county talk, the section of the meeting where county leaders outline the top legislative issues affecting their county, a robust discussion was held with many counties sharing common issues. Counties from the region stressed that land use decisions, especially regarding utility scale solar and data centers, should continue to be made at the local level by local governments. Affordable housing and recovery residence oversight were discussed often as counties in the regions have experienced rising home prices in recent years, as well as concerns regarding health and safety regulations for recovery residences. Transportation and infrastructure funding was mentioned often as was the need for education funding. Lastly, many counties reiterated their support for the optional 1% local sales and use tax for school capital bill that VACo has supported over the last few General Assembly sessions. Members also raised concerns about PFAS in drinking water, mental health funding and fire/EMS support.
At the end of the meeting, we were joined by leaders from local PDCs to discuss the topic of regionalism. VACo would like to thank staff at the Commonwealth Regional Council, Thomas Jefferson PDC and PlanRVA for coming and highlighting the great work you all do.
VACo is grateful to the members, legislators and staff, and business partners who participated in the meeting, and extends its appreciation to Henrico County and to staff at the Henrico Sports & Events Center for their hospitality. Information on upcoming regional meetings is available on VACo’s website at this link.
VACo Contact: James Hutzler