Albemarle County Planning Committee Meeting 06/23/2026

The Albemarle County Planning Committee met on June 23, 2026, to discuss several planning and development issues, with a primary focus on a special use permit amendment for James River Runners. The amendment sought approval to add six additional primitive campsites along the James River, expanding from the existing 14 campsites. The committee reviewed the proposal's compliance with county codes, floodplain regulations, and riparian buffer protections. Concerns were raised about environmental impacts, particularly regarding impervious surfaces, vegetation disturbance, and flood safety. The applicant addressed questions about flood evacuation plans, access, and trash management. Public comments supported the expansion for tourism benefits but also highlighted concerns about trash and environmental impacts. After deliberation, the committee voted to approve the special use permit amendment with staff-recommended conditions, except for a condition restricting outdoor music, which was removed due to existing zoning noise regulations. Additionally, the committee discussed meeting scheduling and training opportunities but no other procurement or contracting matters were addressed.