Franklin County Board of Supervisors Meeting 07/21/2026

The Franklin County, VA Board of Supervisors held a meeting on July 21, 2026, which included extensive discussions on various county matters, notably the school division's budget and capital improvement projects. The board reviewed preliminary financial reports indicating a strong fiscal year-end with some projected deficits requiring future appropriations. The school division presented updates on budget challenges, enrollment declines, and plans for architectural and engineering services for school facility projects, including a proposed $871,250 contract with RRMM for design work on three schools. The board also discussed the need for a public informational campaign regarding a proposed 1-cent sales tax ballot measure to support school facility improvements. Additionally, the sheriff presented on the need to upgrade the school active shooter alert system, recommending a new system with a first-year cost of approximately $123,230 and ongoing annual costs of $63,000, with the board agreeing to discuss this further in a work session. A special use permit was approved for a private educational facility serving homeschoolers, and a zoning map amendment was approved for a commercial development with proffers. The board also approved the abandonment of a county right-of-way to private ownership. A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to public comment, with numerous residents expressing strong opposition to proposed data center developments in the county, citing concerns about environmental impact, water usage, noise, property values, and lack of transparency in the county's dealings. The board acknowledged these concerns and discussed the need for zoning and regulatory measures to address data center development. The meeting concluded with the board approving the 2027 legislative agenda and scheduling further discussions on data center regulations and school safety systems.