BOCO Board of Supervisors Meeting - May 26, 2026

The Botetourt County Board of Supervisors held a meeting on May 26, 2026, with significant focus on budgetary and procurement matters. Key procurement-related discussions included approval of accounts payable exceeding $250,000 for MB Contractors related to the Red Mountain Fire Dispatch Center and a chiller replacement at Greenfield, totaling over $1.2 million. The board also approved a ground space lease with Diamond Communications for a telecommunications project involving a 5-year lease with revenue-sharing terms. Additionally, the board authorized zoning ordinance amendments concerning solar facilities and comprehensive plan updates, directing the Planning Commission to hold public hearings and make recommendations. The FY 2026-27 general budget and tax rates were discussed extensively, with debate over school funding transparency and a motion to table final budget approval until after a June 11 meeting with auditors to clarify financial details. The board also approved allocations from the Recreation Incentive Fund totaling approximately $49,500 for various community projects. Public comments heavily addressed concerns about the Google data center project, focusing on transparency, environmental impact, noise, and fiscal responsibility. The meeting included updates on road projects and fire department ISO rating improvements, highlighting a significant upgrade from class 5 to class 3, which may positively impact insurance premiums for residents.