April 28, 2026 New Kent County Board of Supervisors Work Session

The New Kent County Board of Supervisors held a work session on April 28, 2026, focusing on several procurement and budget-related matters. Key discussions included an update on Bay Transit Express services, highlighting expansions in rural transit, micro transit, and long-distance bus services, with emphasis on cost-effective transportation options for residents. The board approved a $24,403 purchase of cybersecurity software for the county's emergency 911 system, increasing the total project cost to $275,403, supported by a $200,000 grant and budgeted funds. Additionally, the board approved the contract and appointment of Benny Zhang as the new county attorney. The Sheriff's Office presented a request to increase the incentive pay program cap from $90,000 to $183,000 to compensate deputies for additional duties, with funding expected from vacancy savings and unspent line items. The board also discussed and approved a $1.8 million appropriation from the Colonial Downs transfer for the purchase of two new fire apparatus vehicles to address aging equipment and improve emergency response capabilities. Budget updates included a proposed 4-cent real estate tax increase to support capital projects such as courthouse and elementary school construction, with considerations for salary decompression and additional public safety staffing. The meeting concluded with scheduling the next board meeting for May 11, 2026.