Mitria Singleton urges action against informal vendors on Garrisonville Road

Affordable housing took a backseat at the Stafford County Board of Supervisors meeting on January 21, 2025, as community members voiced pressing concerns about local aesthetics and transparency in governance.

Mitria Singleton, a resident of the Rock Hill District, raised alarms over the proliferation of makeshift vendors along Garrisonville Road, likening the scene to a flea market. "It looks like an eyesore," she stated, questioning the lack of regulations that allow individuals to set up shop without oversight. Singleton urged the board to consider implementing ordinances to address the issue, highlighting the negative impression it leaves on visitors to the county.

In a broader discussion, community member Cliff Heinzer praised the board's leadership but lamented the county's declining school performance, attributing it to years of budget austerity. He called for increased compensation for county employees, emphasizing the need for fair pay for their hard work. Heinzer also touched on the recent political climate, expressing concern over rising political violence and its implications for local governance.

Mary Basilia, representing the Falmouth District, expressed gratitude for the board's efforts and emphasized her commitment to becoming a more engaged citizen. She echoed sentiments shared by others regarding the need for transparency and accountability in local projects.

Kristen Maxon raised critical issues regarding the Stafford Technology Campus data center, accusing the county of failing to communicate effectively with residents about the project's impact on local neighborhoods. She criticized the lack of detailed information in the meeting's agenda packet, which she argued left the public confused about significant developments.

As the meeting concluded, the board faced mounting pressure to address these community concerns, particularly regarding local aesthetics and the need for clearer communication with residents. The discussions underscored a growing demand for accountability and responsiveness from local government, setting the stage for future deliberations on these pressing issues.