BOCO Board of Supervisors Meeting - April 28, 2026

The Botetourt County Board of Supervisors held a meeting on April 28, 2026, with extensive discussions focused on the county's budget, school funding, and capital improvement projects. A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to public comments regarding the proposed school budget, with citizens expressing diverse views on funding increases amid declining enrollment and concerns about school facility conditions. The board deliberated on the school division's funding request, ultimately approving a level funding approach with an additional $2.8 million allocated from health care funds and fund balance, while emphasizing fiscal responsibility. The meeting also addressed capital projects including library renovations, water line easements for subdivisions, and road maintenance plans. Notably, the board approved grant acceptances totaling over $750,000 for 911 center equipment and opioid abatement programs, and extended leases for temporary office and storage space related to courthouse construction and fire/EMS operations. The controversial Google data center project prompted numerous public comments expressing environmental and community impact concerns, though the Chamber of Commerce voiced strong support citing economic benefits. Additionally, the board discussed zoning amendments to permit mobile food vendors with supplemental regulations, ultimately deciding to send the proposal back for further refinement to balance business opportunities with community interests. Motions related to budget appropriations, grant acceptances, lease extensions, and resolutions affirming Second Amendment rights were passed during the session. Overall, the meeting highlighted the board's efforts to balance fiscal constraints, community needs, and economic development initiatives.