Economic Development Authority reviews diode rezoning proposal amid community concerns

During the Charles City County Board's regular monthly meeting on April 22, 2025, community members voiced significant concerns regarding local governance, economic development, and fiscal responsibility.

One of the most pressing issues raised was the board's decision to continue working with Pearson for property reappraisals. Resident Lloyd Carter expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of Pearson, citing past experiences that left him unimpressed. He urged the board to consider expanding to a five-member structure to enhance decision-making and accountability.

Economic development was another focal point, particularly concerning a rezoning proposal for a data center by Diode. Travis Johnston, representing the Economic Development Authority, clarified that while the authority provided an opinion on the proposal, he personally voted against it. He emphasized the importance of the Planning Commission's role in assessing the project before it reaches the Board of Supervisors.

The meeting also highlighted a $30,000 donation from the Howard family aimed at revitalizing the county's visitor center. Residents raised questions about the transparency of the project, including who would manage the renovations and whether the work would be put out for bids. Concerns about the timing of the donation and its implications for ongoing projects were also discussed.

Additionally, residents expressed frustration over the county's budget process. Several speakers called for fiscal discipline, arguing against any increases in the budget given the county's financial challenges. They urged the board to prioritize responsible spending and transparency in financial reporting.

The discussion surrounding the purchase of a fire truck also drew attention, with residents questioning the urgency of the decision and the lack of prior information provided to the board. This raised concerns about the decision-making process and the need for better communication between the board and the community.

As the meeting concluded, board members acknowledged the hard work of county staff in addressing these complex issues. They reiterated their commitment to improving governance and ensuring that community voices are heard in future discussions. The board's next steps will involve further engagement with residents and careful consideration of the feedback received during the meeting.