Buckingham County Board of Supervisors 4/20/2026

The Buckingham County Board of Supervisors held a meeting on April 20, 2026, where significant public concern was expressed regarding the Valley Link transmission line project. Multiple citizens and supervisors voiced opposition to the project, citing impacts on property values, eminent domain issues, environmental concerns, and lack of local benefits. The board acknowledged the opposition but indicated limited ability to stop the project. The meeting also included a detailed presentation and public hearing on the county's 2026-2027 operating budget totaling approximately $73.8 million, which includes a proposed tax rate adjustment from 60 to 48 cents per $100 of assessed value following a recent property reassessment. The budget features a 3% employee raise and 2% bonus, increased health insurance costs, and allocations for schools, government operations, debt service, and emergency services. The board approved motions related to budget amendments, public hearings for zoning changes, emergency services funding, and adoption of an emergency operations plan. Discussions also covered concerns about property tax reassessment transparency and school funding appropriations. No contract awards or vendor selections were reported, but the budget and tax rate decisions will influence future county procurement and spending.