Goochland’s supervisors began their October 3 monthly meeting at 4 p.m. and worked their way through a relatively brief agenda. 

Columbus Day closures

County offices will be closed on Monday, October 9 in observance of Columbus Day. There will be no early voting on this date. Convenience centers, however, will operate on their regular schedule. Go to https://www.goochlandva.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1022 for details.

Domestic Violence Awareness Month

The Board declared October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month and presented representatives of Goochland Cares with a proclamation recognizing the need to raise awareness of the devastating effect of domestic and sexual violence has on individuals, families, and the community.

Goochland Cares provides a comprehensive domestic violence program with 24-hour hotline services (804-980-6267); shelters survivors who have become homeless due to domestic violence; responds to emergency calls; offers support, case management and counseling. It also advocates for victims seeking protective orders and empowers survivors to chart their own course for healing. The organization also facilitates training and prevention programs. Go to Goochland Cares for details.

Board Chair Neil Spoonhower, District 2, recalled that he was a member of the Goochland Cares board when the domestic violence response program was added to the offerings of this wonderful community organization. “They were overwhelmed as soon as it started, which is a terrible thing and you wouldn’t think it would happen in our county,” Spoonhower said. “We are so blessed to have resources like this for our people.”

Code of ethics violation complaint

At the September board meeting a citizen alleged that four supervisors violated the Board’s code of ethics by personal financial support to the campaign of a school board member: support of the Goochland Republican committee regarding donations to a school board candidate’s campaign; and the committee’s resolution in support of a school board member. A third category was other “campaign activities”, which included social media posts and a campaign event.

County Attorney Tara McGee explained that the board’s code of ethics which is posted on the wall at the back of the meeting room, establishes a process for determining the validity of complaints of violation.

There are two steps to that process, McGee said. The complaint must be made by a Goochland resident and must allege that the code of ethics or standards of conduct were violated. McGee said that as part of her duties as county attorney she reviewed the complaint.

“It is a fundamental part of our government at the federal, local, and state level, that persons elected by campaigning for office may be members of a political party. They can actively support a political party, and other candidates, both financially and through other support activities. Election to the board of supervisors and adoption of that code of ethics does not deprive a supervisor of their fundamental right to engage in these activities.”

McGee sent notice of her determination that there was no violation of the Code of Ethics to both the Board of Supervisors and the complainant on September 22 and said that no further action is required.

Fire-rescue report

D. E. “Eddie” Ferguson Jr. Chief of the Department of Fire-Rescue and Emergency Services said that October is fire prevention month. Fire Prevention week was established to commemorate the Great Chicago fire, which began on October 8, 1871, caused 250 deaths, and left 100,00 people homeless following the destruction of 17,400 structures.

Fire Prevention Week was first proclaimed in 1922 by U. S. President Calvin Coolidge and is the longest running public health observance in America.

Ferguson said that smoke alarms are available free of charge from his department, Call 804-556-5304 to obtain one. He also urged those who have gas or propane appliances in their homes, including gas log fire places, to install carbon monoxide detectors. As the cooler weather arrives, he also reminded homeowners to have chimneys inspected to ensure safe operation and prevent fires.

This year’s theme, reported Ferguson, is cooking safety. Go to Fire Prevention Week For more information.

The second annual fire-rescue show will take place on Saturday, October 14 on the fields behind Goochland High School. The family friendly event begins at 5 p.m. and will include food trucks, demonstrations, a visit from MedFlight, and conclude with a brief fireworks show.

 

Ferguson said that the show brings back a long-standing Goochland Fire-Rescue tradition. This is a great opportunity to meet the people who save lives and protect property in the county and get a first hand look at their equipment and skills. More information will be forthcoming.

Ferguson thanked the supervisors for attending the ceremonies observing the anniversary of the 911 attacks, both at Courthouse Company 5 and Manakin Company 1. We must honor in perpetuity the valiant responders who ran toward danger and honor their sacrifice. We must also be cognizant that every day in every community in America those who dedicate their lives to public safety, both career and volunteer, go in harm’s way for our benefit.

Consent Agenda

The supervisors unanimously approved its consent agenda, essentially a list of housekeeping items that must have board approval.

Items on the consent agenda included an update memorandum of understanding with Goochland Pet Lovers, the non-profit organization that partners with the county at the Animal shelter; various transportation items; referring zoning ordinance amendments to the planning commission; amendments to the FY24 county budget; and set public hearings for November 1 to formalize moving the Beaverdam voting precinct from the animal shelter to the sports complex and to consider a lease agreement between the county and the Central Virginia Blacksmith guild for its use of space at the Central High School Educational and Cultural Center.

Note change to November meeting date

The board will hold its November meeting on Wednesday, November 1. Public hearings will begin at 6 p.m. Notice will be given in advance if an afternoon session is needed.