The end of an era

This year has seen a lot of hailing and fair welling in county government. Perhaps the most significant change is the retirement of James L. Agnew, who has served as Sheriff of Goochland County for 28 years, on January 1. After 45 years in jobs that required a uniform—United States Coast Guard, game warden, and Goochland Sheriff—he is ready for civilian clothes.

Agnew sought elected office while working as a game warden. “I decided that I wanted to do something more challenging, “a little bit bigger,” he recalled. Running for the open Goochland Sheriff’s job was risky. “I had a wife and two small children to support. I was told that I had to take a leave of absence to campaign, and if I lost, would be transferred to another area.”

James L. Agnew Goochland Sheriff 1992-2020

He ran with the encouragement and support of friends. “That campaign was grueling. I probably knocked on most of the doors in the county. There were only about 13,000 people here then, you couldn’t do that today,” he said of the county’s burgeoning population, currently estimated around 23,000. “People told me I didn’t have a chance (of being elected) and asked why I was running.”

After he won, Agnew hoped that the governing board, which was not “entirely thrilled to see me elected,” would realize that he was “coming from the right place and support me for the good of Goochland. They did not welcome me with open arms.  No one helped me when I took over (as sheriff) and for months there were those who actively sought to undermine my actions.”

Goochland was a very different place then. “When I first took office there were no stoplights. If you wanted to buy a toothbrush after 5 p.m. you had to drive well into Henrico County. There was no Short Pump as we know it today. It was very quiet and very rural,” he recalled. “There was a lot less traffic, before Rt. 288 was built. Now Rt. 6 has become an alternate to I64.”

Communications were limited back then too. In 1992, “there were pay phones at Sandy Hook Road, Georges Tavern and a few other places around the county. That was how you checked in, and we got along fine. We thought it was a big deal when we got “bag phones”. Today radios, cell phones, and computers in vehicles connect deputies and dispatch.

Agnew said he is most proud of the men and women who served in the Goochland County Sheriff’s Office (GCSO) over the years.  “They work hard and are proud of what they do,” he said. “I would put them up against any other law enforcement agency any day. We are an agency of generalists, each with their own specialty, who bring their strengths together to solve problems.”

He contended that Goochland County is currently “in in a very good place.  I’m proud to have had a small part in that.” Thanks to governing and schools board that work together for the good of the citizens. The schools, he said are also better than they ever have been. John Budesky is the best county administrator I’ve ever worked with. He is a straight shooter who works with you. Dr. Raley is the best superintendent.”

Some of the stranger incidents Agnew encountered as sheriff—he admitted that there were quite a few over the years—occurred in the relatively recent past. These included apprehending a pedophile under the Maidens Bridge who had threatened boys in Goochland; the fatal mauling of a young woman by her dogs; and the New Zealand man who made his way to Goochland to harm a local teenager but was shot by her mother as he forced his way into their home.  

During an impromptu roast on December 3, Raley, said that working with “fellow Wahoo” Agnew has been a pleasure. “Sometimes, schools and law enforcement don’t see things eye to eye because we live in different worlds,” Raley said. “We’ve worked through some difficult situations together, but we’ve always been able to bring consensus and collaboration when we work together and been on the same page, ultimately benefitting the community to make sure everyone is safe.”

Sheriff Steven Creasey thanked Agnew for believing in him and hiring him as a dispatcher. “I’ve got some big shoes to fill. Thank you for the guidance, mentoring, and leadership over the past years.”

Former Virginia State Police Officer Jamie Pleasants was the trooper assigned to Goochland for more than three decades. “I’ve worked with some of the finest police forces and sheriffs’ offices in the state, but I brag on Goochland because they are the best.”

He recalled that during a February 2001 multicar pile-up on I-64 how the GCSO provided crucial back up for the State Police. “They were there for the victims and the community.”

Agnew said that the transition is “bittersweet”.  “Watching the transformation from a very rural county to one that is becoming exurban, has been interesting. I hope that open space will be preserved, and that people will still be able to earn a living from their land.”

“Goochland has many good people. I tried to solve problems and bring forces to bear to keep the county safe. We’ve never batted a thousand, no one does. I have no trepidation about handing over the reins to Steven Creasey as next Sheriff.”

Agnew will not miss the political aspect of the job. “Sheriff elections are always nasty for those involved. The past one more than ever,” he said. As all elected officials soon learn, no matter how hard you work, there will always be detractors who sharpen their claws during campaigns. Social media, he contended, has made the process more vicious. “People can say anything they want.”

In the next phase of his life, Agnew plans to spend more time with his grandchildren, watch football, tackle a “honey do” list, and perhaps try his hand at writing historical fiction.

“It’s been a pleasure and honor to serve all of you. We’ve always worked hard and given our best, it’s a wonderful job to serve wonderful people. We’ve evolved, we’ve come a long way,” Agnew reflected. “We worked for a seamless transition. I leave the county in very good hands.”

To protect and serve

To protect and serve

Law enforcement is a difficult career. The hours are long, the pay is less than generous, and it can be deadly.  In the current cultural environment, law enforcement officers (LEOs) of all stripes do not get the respect they deserve and are often vilified for their actions. We are fortunate that the intrepid souls who keep us safe did not choose other career paths and love what they do.

On December 3, the Goochland Board of Supervisors recognized Maj. Don Bewkes and Lt. Terry Pleasants who are retiring from the Goochland Sheriff’s Office at the end of the year, for their service and accomplishments while in office.

Bewkes, who began his tenure in office in February 1992, managed, supervised, and encouraged deputies in the performance of their duties. He served as liaison with Crime Stoppers Metro Richmond, a non-profit organization that offers rewards for anonymous tips that lead to successful prosecution of crime.

Training and partnering with special weapons teams of the FBI; DEA; Virginia State Police; and numerous local law enforcement agencies, Bewkes developed and trained members of Goochland’s Rescue Team. This subset of deputies has been deployed many times in high-risk arrest situations, searches, and asset protection to conserve and protect peace in the county.

He served as a master assessor for the Virginia Professional Law Enforcement Professional Standards Commission with skills honed serving as the accreditation manager for the Goochland Sheriff’s Office.

Although the contributions made by Bewkes to law enforcement in Goochland are numerous, perhaps the most significant is his role in developing the concept and design of the county’s Emergency Operations/Communications Center, dedicated in 2017.

After Hurricane Isabel blew through Goochland in 2003, Bewkes realized that the county needed a better emergency operations center. He gave the matter a great deal of thought and research and built a cardboard model to illustrate his vision of the EOC that translated into reality.  Large enough to accommodate representatives of all county agencies involved in disaster response and recovery for extended periods of time, the new center was built with an eye towards expansion as the county grows. Dispatchers have more space and equipment. The facility includes many ingenious touches, like paint that permits walls to serve as whiteboard, and raised flooring for easy access to electronic cables. In a belt and suspenders approach to emergency communications, there is also space for amateur radio operators.

Maj Don Bewkes (r) explains features of EOC .

The exterior of the new building blends into existing structures so well that some people do not believe it is new.

Bewkes also oversaw expansion and upgrading of the county’s radio system with additional frequencies, channels, repeater towers at more locations around the county, and upgraded mobile radios.

Following are some comments from the impromptu “roast” that followed the December 3 retirement celebration.

Fire-Rescue Chief D. E. “Eddie” Ferguson Jr. thanked Sheriff Agnew, Bewkes, and Pleasants for their mentoring, teaching and support and “for laying the framework for what’s yet to come.”

“In emergencies, we’re all on the same team, we’re going to miss you,” Ferguson said. “These three (Agnew, Bewkes, and Pleasants) are the first to put their lives on the line. I have been in many tactical situations where they were the first ones in. You’ve done so much for law enforcement and emergency management.” He commended Agnew for having the foresight to equip patrol vehicles with AEDs and train deputies in CPR and emergency medical response.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Jeremy Raley recalled a joint exercise with schools, fire-rescue and the sheriff’s office lead by Bewkes last summer. “I saw Don Bewkes in action, the man knows his stuff, the way he was able to organize his team his leadership and manage that situation was impressive. I thank you for everything you’ve done for the schools.”

“I’ve always s known what I wanted to do and was very happy to find a place like Goochland to do it. We’ve had the greatest people” Bewkes said.” I’ve always stressed the need to improve in good times and bad. You really see what people are made of when times get tough. We’re at one of the best places we can be and will continue to move forward in a constructive and honorable way.

“I’ve never considered it (law enforcement) work, but it wasn’t always a joy. We did our best for the community and the community has always done the best for you. Goochland has always been highly supportive of us, personally, as a structure, and as an organization. It’s been a pleasure; it’s been a great place and it’s going to continue to be so.”

Segueing into comments about Lt. Pleasants, Bewkes noted that since Goochland’s first Sheriff, Thomas Jefferson’s father, she is the first women officer to retire at full benefits in the entire history of Goochland County.

Pleasants thanked Agnew and Bewkes for the opportunity to do this job. “They taught me how to be a strong individual, good officer, leader, and to work with other people. I want say to all the guys (deputies and dispatchers) in the back, you’re a good bunch and I can’t say how much I’ve enjoyed working with you and how much you mean to me,” Pleasants said.  “You come to me when you need something, and I try to help you as best I can. I hope the person taking my job will continue to do that. The Sheriff’s Office is full of fine and upstanding people. Thank you for making my job easier and I wish all of you the very best.”

During her 31-year tenure with the Goochland Sheriff’s Office, Pleasants held a variety of jobs including dispatcher; deputy; patrol sergeant; emergency communications supervisor; and administrative lieutenant.  She played a significant role in the initial accreditation of the Goochland Sheriff’s Office and four subsequent re-accreditations. She has also been an assessor for the Virginia Law Enforcement Professional Standards Commission for more than 20 years.

Pleasants played an important role in the recent development and implementation of emergency medical dispatch. She mentored dispatchers who are the heart and soul of emergency response.

Thanks to both for their years of service to Goochland County.

Supervisor Manuel Alvarez, Jr. and. Lt. Pleasants (Goochland County photo)

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Solemn promises

On Friday, December 20, 2019, the Hon. Timothy K. Sanner, Chief and Presiding Judge of the Virginia 16^th Judicial Circuit and presiding judge of Goochland Circuit Court, welcomed those who filled his courtroom to witness the oath taking by newly elected officials.

The Hon. Timothy K. Sanner

“It is entirely appropriate on this ceremonial occasion to assemble in this place to honor those who choose to seek elected office and enter public service,” said Sanner. “They take a solemn oath to serve those who placed their faith in them by electing them to office.”

The oath is simple. “I (insert name) do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support the Constitution of the United States, and the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Virginia, the ordinances of the County of Goochland and that I will faithfully and impartially discharge all the duties incumbent upon me as (insert office) according to the best of my ability, (so help me God)."

Having had much practice in such ceremonies during his tenure on the bench, Judge Sanner, overcoming a bit of hoarseness, swore in Goochland’s newly elected officials in an expeditious manner. Deputies of Constitutional Officers who were able to attend, also took an oath. Those unable to attend will be sworn in at another time.

First up was the school board. Its members are Sandra Barefoot-Reid, District 1; William Quarles, Jr., District 2; Karen Horn, District 3; Michael Newman, District 4; and John Wright, District 5. Barefoot-Reid, Quarles, and Newman, who previously served as principal of Goochland High School, are new to the board.

(L to R) Dr. Jonathan Lyle, Ken Peterson, Neil Spoonhower

Next came the Board of Supervisors comprised of Susan Lascolette, District 1; Neil Spoonhower, District 2; John Lumpkins, Jr., District 3; Don Sharpe, District 4; and Ken Peterson, District 5. Spoonhower and Sharpe are newcomers.

Dr. Jonathan Lyle took his oath as Director for the Monacan Soil and Water Conservation District.

Then Judge Sanner swore in the Constitutional Officers followed by their deputies.

In order they were new County Sheriff Steven Ned Creasey; Treasurer, Pamela Duncan, who received the most votes county wide in November’s election; Commissioner of the Revenue, Jennifer Brown; and Commonwealth’s Attorney D. Michael Caudill.

Sheriff Jim Agnew "passes the torch" to Sheriff Steven Creasey.

Sanner asked outgoing Sheriff James L. Agnew if he wished to say a few words. Agnew smiled at the assembled deputies and dispatchers. “I leave you in very good hands with very capable people. I would be remiss not to mention our governing and school boards who have evolved and improved greatly over the years.  You are wonderful to work with. We could not be in a better place than we are now.”

Agnew used the new circuit court security annex building, dedicated on December 18 at a metaphor for the current climate in local government.

“This would not have been possible even ten years ago. I can think of no better example of how this board (of supervisors), Court and Sheriff’s office worked together. This building was a long time coming. Its primary purpose is to keep the court and those in it safe; it must mesh with the architecture of the courthouse square; and be functional when this courtroom is no longer in use. All were accomplished because of this court and this board. I am very grateful your honor and it’s been my pleasure serve you and the citizens.”

The courtroom emptied quickly when the ceremony was over. Only the supervisors and Sheriff's folks lingered for photos.

Goochland Sheriff Steven Creasey, Clerk of Court Dale Agnew, and outgoing Sheriff Jim Agnew with deputies. Powhatan Sheriff Nunnally far right, Powhatan Chief Deputy Searfoss, far left.

Board of Supervisors l to r: Neil Spoonhower; Don Sharpe; Susan Lascolette; John Lumpkins, Jr., and Ken Peterson.

Transitions

Two Goochland County Supervisors, Manual Alvarez, Jr., District 2; and Bob Minnick, District 4, who did not seek reelection in November, have completed their eight-year stint in office.  

Bob Minnick (r) and Manny Alvarez

On December 3, which was expected to be the last board meeting of 2019, both Alvarez and Minnick were honored for their accomplishments in service to Goochland County. (See December 3 Board packet pages 7-15 for details at http://www.goochlandva.us/

 When they first took office in 2012, the county was in perilous shape. The newly elected supervisors—four of the five seats were filled with new faces— metaphorically linked arms and walked through fire to transform Goochland government from an embarrassment into an exemplar. Even before taking office, this intrepid group took an unheard-of action and worked closely—in most cases campaigning with—candidates for school board thereby forging a cordial collaboration between the two boards that has served the community well and will continue to do so.

Resolutions  presented to Alvarez and Minnick include a list of the major accomplishments of the last eight years— financial excellence, including the refinancing of the Tuckahoe Creek Service District debt; earning triple A bond ratings from two different agencies; repurposing the Central High School property into a cultural and education center; building the first county-owned fire-rescue station in Hadensville; resolving a centuries’ old dispute about a portion of the Goochland Louisa boundary;  breaking ground for the new animal shelter; completion of the state-of-the art emergency communications center; many difficult land use decisions; and seeking  ways to expand broadband to the entire county.

That just scratches the surface. In addition to their basic supervisor duties, Alvarez and Minnick represented the county on boards—Alvarez on the Richmond  Regional Transportation Planning board to plead our case for road improvements; and Minnick on the Capital Workforce Partnership, a consortium of local elected officials that seeks ways to broaden training and employment opportunities in the region. Each spent countless hour listening to their constituents and working closely with members of county staff to solve problems and avoid unintended consequences from their decisions. They did all this, and much more, for the exorbitant salary of $1,000 PER MONTH. The board chair, which is rotated each year, is paid a bit more.

Minnick and Alvarez and members of county staff

Alvarez, who was born in Cuba but came to the United States as soon as he could, is a true American. On December 3, he recalled. “When we came into office (former county administrator) Becki Dickson was the spark that started many things like the renovation of Central High School and the animal shelter. She and (former county attorney) Norman Sales kept us on track and told us what we could and couldn’t do. This (serving as supervisor) is not something I ever thought I’d do. This last eight years have been the most fulfilling parts of my life. I’ve enjoyed my time on the board.  We’ve been able to accomplish a lot but I’m really proud of the little things. Taking a county with a lot of financial problems to two triple A ratings was great. I want to thank my wife, Grace. I could not have done this without her. I appreciate the friendship of people on the board of people working together for the same goal. We did not always agree on everything but worked for the good of the citizens. I leave my District in good hands with Neil (Spoonhower) “.

Minnick echoed Alvarez. “It’s been a tremendous personal experience to have the opportunity to serve on this board and have the residents of District 4 support me. I’m sure that Don Sharpe will step into this role on January 1 and do a great job. The greatest part of the experience has been to work with the staff and Constitutional officers and their teams, this Board and of course when (the late) Ned (Creasey) was with us. Thanks to John and Tara for their support and guidance about how to think about public policy, and friends and neighbors who took time to come out today.  And Cathy, you know how I feel about you and how you were with me from the beginning of this journey.”

Board Vice Chair Susan Lascolette, District 1, said that Minnick is one of the funniest guys she’s ever known.  “We’re going to be calling you and asking for your advice,” she promised. “You’ve been wonderful friends and we’ve accomplished a lot together.”

Ken Peterson, District 5 observed that Alvarez, a first-generation immigrant, is proof positive that the American dream is alive and well. “He escaped a communist regime and rose to a position of prominence in the private sector and later in life devoted his time and talents to make sure that this remains the land of the free and home of the brave and made Goochland the gold standard for local government.”

Peterson said that Minnick, who began his career as an army officer, rising to the rank of Lt. Col. before retirement, swore an oath and pledged his life to defend the Constitution. He went on to create a successful business and devote his time to local governance.

Neil Spoonhower, who will succeed Alvarez on the Board said that Manny’s endorsement was priceless. Spoonhower said his bar of achievement will be that his endorsement for a successor will be as valuable as Manny’s was for him in November. “That will mean that I’ve treated people fairly, listened to all the people, whether they agreed or disagreed with me, and worked tirelessly to serve the citizens”.

D. B. Smith, a friend and neighbor of Minnick’s, said he has never seen such a spirit of working together to solve problems and thanked the entire board for its last eight years of work on behalf of citizens. “I’ve seen the amount of time you put in and want to thank you all for a great job.”

Others expressed gratitude to all board members for paying attention to residents’ concerns and making citizens feel they’ve been listened to when they made tough decisions.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Jeremy Raley said that when he was sworn in, he was told that public safety and education are a priority here. “That wasn’t just lip service. Their actions day in and day out have supported that. I’ve enjoyed our interactions and serve our community working with you.”

Jonathan Lyle, Monacan Soil and Water Director, thanked Grace Alvarez and Cathy Minnick for sharing their spouses.” It’s a family effort and I appreciate the investment you’ve made in the success of the county.” 

Cathy Minnick (l) and Grace Alvarez

This recognition and celebration mark peaceful transition and ongoing commitment to good governance to serve all the citizens of Goochland.

Hail and farewell to Manny and Bob. Goochland owes you a debt of gratitude for doing the impossible so often that it almost became routine. May you serve as an example for those who follow.

Keeping Goochland Rural

Goochlanders love its rural character, whatever that it. Crafting a precise definition of rural is tricky, and like the comment made by former United States Supreme Court Justice Potter Stewart about pornography: “I can’t define it, but I know it when I see it.”

Critics declare that residential growth and economic development in the eastern part of the county is the death knell for rural Goochland. In truth, 85 percent of the county is planned to stay rural under the 2035 comprehensive land use plan.

Folks who live on a fraction of an acre in eastern Goochland believe they are in a rural area. Those who live on acreage to the west, know they are rural. What is the common denominator?

Logo for new Ag Center

That would be agriculture. You can’t have rural without farms.  There are all sorts in Goochland, including the Alvis Dairy Farm west of Centerville, horse farms, and a wide rage of operations producing beef, artisanal pork, and other crops. Trees, whose growing season is measured in decades rather than months, are part of the ag scene as are farm breweries, wineries, and cideries.

Aside from land use taxation, calculated on a per acre rather than assessed valuation basis for property actively engaged in agriculture or forestry uses, the Extension Office, and support of the Monacan Soil and Water Conservation District, the county did little to encourage and support farmers.

That changed on Tuesday, December 3,  when, before a ribbon cutting ceremony for the Goochland Ag Center, located at the Central High School Educational and Cultural Center, County Administrator John Budesky announced a new initiative dubbed A.C.R.E.S. (Accessibility, connectivity, readiness, education, and sustainability) to support the agricultural community.

Monacan Soil and Water Conservation District Director Jonathan Lyle and Nicole Shuman, 

Nicole Schuman and Jonathan Lyle (left and right of scissors) cut the ribbon on Dec.3.

Agricultural and Natural Resources agent for the Goochland Cooperative Extension office cut the ribbon for the new center. Both agencies moved to space there earlier in the year, simplifying and encouraging collaboration in their respective functions.

Agriculture is big business in Goochland, Budesky explained. About one third of the 56 thousand acres in the county are involved in activities classified as agriculture related. Statistics for 2017 indicate that we had 355 farms, ranging in size from fewer than ten acres to more than one thousand. Cropland accounted for 42 percent of the total followed by woodland at 32 percent and pastureland at 21 percent. Our top crops are hay; soy beans; corn for grain; wheat for grain; and corn for silage. Goochland’s livestock inventory includes broilers and other meat-type chickens; cattle and calves; goats; hogs and pigs; horses and ponies; layers; pullets; sheep or lambs; and turkeys. Of our 550 producers, only 45 are under the age of 35 and 234 are over 65.

(See the 2017 Census of Agriculture County Profile for Goochland https://www.nass.usda.gov/Publications/AgCensus/2017/Online_Resources/County_Profiles/Virginia/cp51075.pdf for a detailed look at the variety of agricultural products in Goochland and their market value.)

ACRES seeks to offer support for the agricultural community by engaging various departments including community development, animal protection, the assessor’s office, MSWCD, Parks and Rec, and the Extension office. Support will be focused on educational awareness programming; planning and zoning initiatives; streamlined policies and procedures; public safety; and economic development and tourism.

Rural economic development and agritourism are an important component in keeping Goochland rural. Farming is a tough business, indeed, the high rollers are not at Las Vegas casinos, but in every field in America where each year producers literally “bet the farm” in hopes that abundant harvests and strong markets will enable them to cover their costs and make a profit. Farm families often need someone employed elsewhere to supplement their income.  

Agritourism helps farmers add value to their products, which in turn helps their bottom line, and reduces the temptation to sell their land to developers. Farmers markets showcase and create demand for locally sourced products. Tourism may be the best sort of economic development—folks come and enjoy what you’ve got to offer; spend money; and go home.

The new center will help with marketing and social media outreach; the basics of managing a business and writing business plans; grant opportunities; and promotion of agriculturally based products. Go to http://www.goochlandva.us/1046/Agricultural-Resources for complete information.

The Ag Center is the latest addition to the Central High School complex. The Center’s new auditorium hosts a wide range of meetings and even fostered creation of the Goochland Community Theater, whose next production A Good Old-Fashioned Redneck Country Christmas will open on December 19. (See gvatheatre.org for details)

Hands On Dogtown, a space for local artisans to work and showcase their wares, is taking shape. Its first tenant is a blacksmith shop under the direction of the Central Virginia Blacksmith Guild. The kitchen of the former school has been repurposed into a forge.

“We kept the range hood and tile floors for fire safety,” explained Derek Stamey, Deputy County administrator for Operations, who has presided over the transformation of the old building from a derelict property into a valuable community resource.  “The forges are enclosed, enabling heating of metal without using an open flame.”

Derek Stamey explains blacksmith operations. The  boxlike things are enclosed forges.

In addition to the blacksmith shop, Sekou Shabaka and the Shrine of the Black Madonna will establish a community garden on the property in collaboration with offenders from the Virginia Correctional Center for Women in Courthouse Village.

The right to bear arms

On December 3, the Goochland County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved this powerful document supporting the second amendment of the United States Constitution and the rights of law-abiding Goochland citizens to own and bear arms.

The action was taken in response to draconian gun control legislation prefiled in the Virginia General Assembly by the repressive radicals elected last month who will take control of both houses in Richmond next month.

Second Amendment supporters swelled the attendance for the supervisors' public hearings on Dec. 3

Resolution of the Goochland County Board of Supervisors

PREAMBLE

The Goochland County Board of Supervisors has received significant input from citizens expressing serious concerns about potential Gun Control legislation that may be enacted by the 2020 General Assembly session. This statement is intended to respond to those citizen concerns.

In Goochland County we believe in the rule of law and support the US Constitution including the Bill of Rights and the Second Amendment. Each member of the Goochland County Board of Supervisors has taken an oath to “support the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Virginia”. The Goochland County Board takes the oath of office seriously and actively works to protect all rights guaranteed by both constitutions including the right for law-abiding citizens to bear arms.

The Goochland County Board of Supervisors writes laws for the county to the extent authority has been granted by the General Assembly. We have limited authority to pass laws, but we fully use our authority to protect and defend the rights of our citizens.

The Board of Supervisors is neither a law enforcement entity, nor responsible for prosecutions. Law enforcement in the county is entrusted to the Sheriff, who is separately elected by the citizens of this county. Prosecutions are handled by the Commonwealth’s Attorney, who is also separately elected by the citizens. Finally, the Board of Supervisors has no judicial authority. Interpretation and determination of the constitutionality of laws is performed by the court system.

This resolution affirms our support for the Second Amendment and sends a clear message to our legislators and all elected officials that we respect our citizens’ rights, all their rights, and that we stand with other Virginia localities  that have similarly voted to affirm their support for citizens’ Second Amendment rights.

RESOLUTION

Whereas, the Second Amendment of the United States Constitution reads “A well-regulated militia, being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed”: and

Whereas, the United States Supreme Court in District of Columbia. Heller, 554 U. S.570 (2008), affirmed an individual’s right to possess firearms unconnected with service in a militia, for traditionally lawful purposes, such as self-defense within the home: and

Whereas, Article 1, Section 1, of the Virginia Constitution reads “That all men are by nature equally free and independent and have certain inherent rights, of which, when they enter into the state of society, they cannot, by any compact, deprive or divest their posterity; namely, the enjoyment of life and liberty, with the means of acquiring and possessing property, and pursuing and obtaining happiness and safety”; and

Whereas, Article 1, Section 2 of the Virginia Constitution reads that “all power is vested in, and consequently derived from, the people, that magistrates are their trustees and servants and at all times amenable to them”; and

Whereas, Article 1, Section 13, of the Virginia Constitution provides “that a well-regulated militia, composed of the body of the  people, trained to arms , is the proper, natural, and safe defense of a free state, therefore, the right  of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed”; and

Whereas, certain legislation that has or may be introduced in the Virginia General Assembly, and certain legislation which has or may be introduced in the United States Congress could have the effect of infringing on the rights of law abiding citizens to keep and bear arms, as guaranteed by the  Second Amendment to the United States Constitution and Article 1, Section 13 of the Virginia Constitution: and

Whereas, the Goochland County Board of Supervisors is concerned about the passage of any bill containing language which infringes on the rights of law-abiding citizens of Goochland to keep and bear arms; and

Whereas, the Goochland County Board of Supervisors wishes to express its deep commitment to the rights of all law-abiding citizens to keep and bear arms; and

Whereas, the Goochland Board of Supervisors wishes to express its opposition to any federal or state law that unconstitutionally restricts the rights of the law-abiding citizens of Goochland County to keep and bear arms; and

Whereas, the Goochland County Board of Supervisors wishes to express its intent to support and defend the Second Amendment rights, and to oppose, within the limits of the Constitutions of the United States and the Commonwealth of Virginia, any efforts to unconstitutionally restrict such rights, and to use such legal means  at its disposal to protect the rights of law-abiding citizens of Goochland County to keep and bear arms.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, this 3^rd day of December 2019, by the Board of Supervisors of Goochland County, Virginia:

That the Goochland County Board of Supervisors urges our Delegates, Senators, and the Governor, to oppose the passage of any state laws that infringe upon the rights of law-abiding citizens of the Commonwealth under the Second Amendment of the United States Constitution and under Article 1, Section 13 of the Virginia Constitution, and

That the Goochland County Board of Supervisor hereby expresses its intend to uphold the Second Amendment Rights of law-abiding citizens of Goochland County, Virginia, and

That the Goochland County Board of Supervisors hereby declares its intent to oppose any infringement on the right of law-abiding citizens to keep and bear arms using such legal means as may be expedient.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Goochland County Board of Supervisors request that a copy of this resolution be provided to the General Assembly members representing Goochland County and to the Governor of Virginia.

The vote followed more than an hour of passionate public comment and a thoughtful discussion among board members. Speakers urged—some demanded—that the supervisors make Goochland a second amendment sanctuary county to follow the lead of other Virginia jurisdictions. The supervisors chose instead to frame their beliefs about the protection of Constitutional rights in their own words.

Senate Bill 16, to be addressed in the 2020 Virginia General Assembly session, sparked the outcry. (See https://lis.virginia.gov/cgi-bin/legp604.exe?201+sum+SB16 for details. Take a good look at the impact statement, and its discussion of the number of incarcerations that could be generated.) As written, the bill, if passed, could make felons out of a great many Goochland citizens.

The board room and overflow space were filled with a cross section of the good people of Goochland. Speakers included a home-schooling mother, often alone during the day with her children, who invoked her right to protect her family; hunters; sport shooters; gun owners; and people who support the Constitution.

Tina Ramirez and Del. John McGuire, both seeking the Republican nomination to oppose Abigail Spanberger in next year’s 7^th District congressional race weighed in.

 Ramirez said that gun rights are very personal to her because she has seen first-hand, during her work in war torn countries, what happens when people lose their right to bear arms falsely believing that their government would protect them.

McGuire said that as a Navy SEAL he swore an oath to protect the Constitution. “Evil does exist,” he said. “Once you lose a right it’s hard to get it back.”

One gentleman said that he lives in western Goochland and hears gunfire all the time. “No one has been shot and no one has bullet holes in their homes” he said. He took issue with people in the General assembly who believe they know what is best for us and interfere with our constitutional rights.

Some were angry that the board declined to include the word sanctuary. “We elected you, you do what we tell you,” one man shouted. (Actually, that’s not how it works. America is a republic. We elect people who we trust to act in our stead. To the people who grumbled that we need a change in the board of supervisors—there was an election to do just that four weeks ago. If you pay so little attention to government at all levels, you deserve what you get.)

One speaker urged the supervisors to send a message that cannot be misunderstood. They did.

 “This legislation would make Hitler proud,” contended one speaker referring to SB16, “and make me a felon overnight.” Another gentleman said he intends to be a good felon because he has no intention of obeying SB 16. He said that legislation to confiscate weapons would put deputies in harm’s way.

A speaker observed that “244 years later we are still fighting the same battle,” referring to the American Revolution. “I don’t care how much you owe Michael Bloomberg for your election, Virginia gun rights are not for sale,” another declared.

Board Chair Manuel Alvarez, Jr. District 2, presiding at his last meeting as a supervisor, recalled when his grandfather’s guns were confiscated by soldiers in Castro’s in Cuba. “There were tears in his eyes, not because they were taking his guns, which he rarely used but enjoyed cleaning, but because of what happened to Cuba,”. The memory brought tears to Alvarez’ eyes.

“This resolution takes our message to the governor and General Assembly without the word sanctuary,” Alvarez contended.

John Lumpkins, District 3, said that he too will be a good felon if SB16 passes. He acknowledged that the supervisors cannot compel the sheriff to ignore a law and only have so much power. He too contended that the unanimous adoption of the resolution sends a clear message to the state house.

Lumpkins said that the supervisors are with those who support gun rights. He also urged everyone there to go to the state capital on January 20 to reinforce the message. His remarks generated shouts of approval and support.

Board vice chair, Susan Lascolette, District 1, said that she too is a gun owner and supports protection of Second Amendment rights. “We want our rights protected; we don’t want our guns taken away.” She said that regardless of the use of the word “sanctuary” the board cannot give gun owners a level of protection. “We’re standing with everyone else in this endeavor, pushing back and saying we don’t want our guns taken away.”

District 4 Supervisor, Bob Minnick, a retired U. S. Army Lt. Col, who also retires at the end of the year, said that to him, the word “sanctuary” was a trigger word as it has been used by those who seek to circumvent the Constitution.

“Having taken the oath (to uphold and protect the Constitution) five times myself over a 21 year military career and given it over 100 times to others of like mind. I come from the same place as many in the audience. First gun at 10, first NRA class at 11; 21 years military service with a fair amount of weapons training. I’ve got my log cabin story about what I did with my weapons and what I like to do now with my weapons. No one is going to take my weapon from me ever. My approach was to make this resolution very concise.” He said he viewed the term “sanctuary” as part of lawlessness, which he cannot support. “I believe that this is as strong or stronger than anything from other jurisdictions in Virginia or other states that I have reviewed.”

Ken Peterson, District 5, a West Point graduate and former paratrooper, said “it does the heart good to see so many patriotic Americans in the room.” He too took the oath to support and defend the Constitution from all enemies foreign and domestic and defend the Second Amendment with his life.

He reminded the assemblage that the supervisors so strongly support Second Amendment rights that they repealed the concealed carry permit fee a few years ago, believing that no one should have to pay for the privilege of owning a gun.

Peterson said that the recent development of jurisdictions picking and choosing which parts of the Constitution they will uphold and which they will ignore is troubling and undermines the rule of law upon which our form of government is based.

To see the entire discussion, go to the county website http://www.goochlandva.us/ and click on recorded meetings. Select the December 3 supervisor’s meeting. The Second Amendment discussion begins at the 2:42 mark.

Postscript

On Monday, December 2, the Hon. Teresa W. Carter, General District Court Judge in the Virginia 16^th Judicial Circuit, from Orange County, accepted pleas of not guilty to trespassing, acknowledging facts sufficient to find them guilty, from Levin White and Richard Grizzell.

A complaint filed by William L. S. Rigg, managing partner of WLS Properties, which controls 127 acres on Manakin Road  that is prominently posted with no trespassing signs, charged that on October 4, 2019 at approximately 1:35 p.m. White and Grizzell placed a campaign sign on the WLS land inside the tree line full view of a no trespassing sign. The actions were recorded by a game camera.

A sentence of 25 hours of community service, to be performed for a Goochland non-profit in the next six months, good behavior, and prohibition from entering onto property owned by William S. Rigg and WLS Properties, or having any contact with Rigg, was imposed by Judge Carter as the penalty for the October 4 trespass.  Defendants are also required to pay court costs. A report confirming that the sentence requirements have been fulfilled is to be filed in Goochland General District Court no later than June 2, 2020.

Jeff Haislip, Fluvanna Commonwealth’s Attorney, acted as special prosecutor.

Abundance of excellence

This is the time of year that we pause to give thanks for the blessings in our lives. The abundance of good news about Goochland Schools is one of those blessings. There is so much good news about our school division that is it hard to keep track.

Almost every week, another student, teacher, or program is recognized for excellence.

Retiring District 4 School Board member Beth Hardy, began her service to our schools as school board chairperson in 2012, a very difficult year that proved to be the start of a renaissance in local education.  She was recently presented with the Virginia School Board Association Advocate for Education Award. This recognizes school board members who have had impact on their region and the Commonwealth, and who have shown active involvement in local, state, and federal advocacy on behalf of their division, VSBA, and public education. This is the fifth year the award has been presented.  Hardy has served on the VSBA board of directors for five years. Hardy’s efforts, and those of other school board members have gotten Goochland Schools recognition throughout the Commonwealth in a good way.

Beth Hardy

There is far more to contemporary education that reading, writing and ‘rithmetic and our schools work hard to provide as many opportunities as possible for our kids to succeed, or to “maximize the potential of every learner.” Preparing our kids for life after school is an important part of today’s education.

On November 15, the fifth business and education roundtable was held at the exquisite headquarters of Luck Stone in Manakin.  The featured speaker was Dr. James Lane, Virginia Superintendent of Public Instruction, who is no stranger to Goochland, having served as our superintendent of schools. Attendees included representatives of area businesses; school administrators and teachers; county government officials; and current and future school board members.

The view from Luck Stone headquarters in Manakin.

Dr. Jeremy Raley, current GCPS superintendent, explained that the vision of our school division is to prepare life-ready graduates equipped to become gainfully employed tax-paying citizens. The purpose of the roundtables attended by community business partners is to have a conversation about what schools can do to prepare students to join the workforce of the future. Operative word future, because things are changing fast.

Lane said it was good to be back in the county. Goochland schools, said Lane, are renowned across the state as one of the best school divisions, doing really well, and looking for ways to take that success to the next level. He explained that the slogan “Virginia is for learners. Strengthening the talent pipeline with future ready learners,” is part of an initiative to get people to come to Virginia and bring their businesses with them. The Commonwealth, Lane said has been rated number one for business and economic development. It is rated number two for education and workforce development.

Dr. James Lane, State Superintendent for Public Instruction.

To build on that reputation, Lane contended, schools must go deeper and move from a test score metric to challenging students to obtain knowledge, skills, and work experiences identified by employers and educator as critical for success.

He reported that the focus on basic academic skills has been joined by the need to develop soft skills, including collaboration, communication, and problem solving, to develop well-rounded students. Finding ways to measure student progress outside of test score is a necessary challenge. While technology is a necessary tool in today’s classroom, “a great teacher is still the key to a great education for a student”, he declared.

Lane reported that reading test scores for the past five years show a decline across the board. “This means we have an issue. We need you to read to your kids in school and at home. We all have work to do.”

Dr. John Herndon, Director of Innovation and Strategy said that the school division is updating its strategic plan for the next five years and asked for input from the group.   

Breakout sessions followed. The business representatives emphasized the importance of internships and job shadowing to introduce students to career paths they might not otherwise have chosen. Establishing partnerships between school divisions and employers is important to make these programs effective. Sometimes insurance and legal barriers are impediments to these programs for students under 18 years of age.

Employers are looking for applicants with soft skills, some as basic as being able to look someone in the eye, shake hands, and communicate face to face. One attendee observed that few teenagers today have the kind of entry level jobs—flipping burgers, delivering newspapers, cutting grass—held by previous generations where they learned how to work. Students need to learn interviewing skills, and employment basics including showing up on time, completing assigned tasks, following instructions, and getting along with others for success in the workplace.

Raley concluded by saying that educators are busy teaching and do not necessarily know what is going on in private industry. Opportunities for teachers to visit businesses to see what skills they need can help them adjust their lessons.

Thanks to the many connections Goochland’s Career and Technical Education program (CTE) have in place, some of our graduates move form high school to lucrative internships with companies like Luck Stone. These round tables hope to expand those opportunities.

The fall 2019 edition of Explorations in Learning, our school division’s annual report, should be in your mailbox soon. Please take time to read it and find out about some of the many good things our schools are doing to prepare ours kids to take their place in the world and succeed.

Keeping the books

The Goochland County audit committee meeting on Tuesday, November 26 was followed by a special called meeting of the Board of Supervisors. Both sessions focused on county fiscal matters. Mike Garber, a principal with the Harrisonburg based firm of PBMares, retained by the county to prepare the certified annual financial report—the annual audit—presented the report first to the audit committee and then to the full board.

State law requires CAFRs to be completed and approved by November 30. Garber said that, as far as he knows, Goochland is the only jurisdiction in the Commonwealth to hold special meetings to approve the CAFR on time.

For the second year in a row, Garber reported, Goochland has a “clean” audit, finally earning the county the “low risk auditee” designation. This is the result of hard work and careful attention to best financial practices after years of dreadful dysfunction. The clean audits are the result of hard work and a commitment to public service by everyone involved, including county, school division, and constitutional officers.

The county and our school division have earned national recognition for their financial reporting for several consecutive years and are on track for future reporting laurels.

In addition to the audit, PBMares offers comments and suggestions for improvement. Garber said that “it is great to come into an entity of this size and find no issues.” The overall audit results included unmodified opinions on basic financial statements of the county and “component unit school board”; unmodified opinion as required under  Government Auditing Standards as of and for the year ended June 30, 2019, and audits completed as planned;  no significant changes to the PBMares approach were required.

The PBMares report stated that there were no disagreements with management; no significant difficulties were encountered in performing the audit and there was good cooperation and complete access to all information required.

The FY 2019 CAFR demonstrates the county’s commitment to good stewardship of public funds.

A resolution authorizing issuance of a series of bonds by the county to partially refinance some of the Tuckahoe Creek Service District bonds was unanimously approved by the supervisors. Recently, the Virginia Resources Authority and the county’s financial advisor, PFM Financial Advisors, LLC, advised that, based on current favorable market conditions, the county might realize favorable financing terms for a potential refunding of the 2012 County Bonds, either by the sale of the water and sewer bonds to VRA in a stand-alone VRA issuance of refunding bonds, or the sale of the county’s local bonds to  VRA pursuant to a local bond sale and financing agreement related to or as part of the Virginia Pooled Financing program. The resolution positions the county to take advantage of favorable market conditions should they exist in early 2020.

Essentially, as interest rates are falling, the county could save money on refinancing a portion of the TCSD debt. This resolution authorizes a detailed investigation of refinancing options. An additional resolution on a specific course of action will need to be approved by the supervisors for any refinancing restricting to go forward. This could take place as early as February 2020.

 District 5 Supervisor Ken Peterson explained that the county would move forward with the 2020 refinancing only if the net present value savings are at least three percent. Barbara Horlacher, county director of finance said that the move would need to realize a savings of at least $3 million to go forward.  Any refinancing said Peterson, will “stay within the guardrails” of the current financing and will not extend the life of the bonds.

Horlacher shared the FY 2020, which began last July 1, first quarter projections. So far, the reports show a surplus just south of $3 million.  This is the result of revenues exceeding budgeted amounts. The next quarterly report will be made in February.

Between the audit committee meeting and the board meeting, Goochland Fire-Rescue Chief D. E. “Eddie” Ferguson, Jr. and fire-rescue crews showed off the county’s newest ambulance equipped with four-wheel drive and motorized stretcher lifts welded to the ambulance frame for added patient safety. Two new emergency response vehicles equipped with a wide array of life-saving gear that enables providers to begin treating patients before the ambulance arrives and a new chief’s car were also on display. The most important part of EMS is still well-trained providers.

Motorized stretcher  lift prevents injuries to providers and  is more secure for patients.

Fire-Rescue Chief Fergsuson 's new ride is a mobile command center

New ambulance

Emergency response vehicle equipped to save lives .

Recently reelected Monacan Soil and Water District Director Jonathan Lyle announced that he will pay a bounty of $10 per sign for any of his “keep Goochland Rural” campaign signs that have not been picked up to the Goochland Christmas Mother.