County officials select Farmville Herald as official newspaper amidst circulation concerns

The Appomattox Board of Supervisors meeting on April 21, 2025, focused on significant discussions regarding local newspaper advertising and the ongoing renovation of social services facilities.

A primary topic was the decision to designate the Farmville Herald as the official newspaper for legal notices, a move that could save the county approximately $12,000 annually. Board members debated the implications of this decision, particularly concerning public awareness and access to information. Concerns were raised about whether residents would be adequately informed if notices were published in the Farmville Herald instead of the Lynchburg paper, which some members believed had a broader reach within the community.

The discussion highlighted the challenges faced by rural areas in maintaining effective communication channels, especially after the closure of local newspapers. Members expressed frustration over the lack of clarity regarding what constitutes a "newspaper of general circulation," which is a legal requirement for publishing public notices. The board ultimately voted in favor of using the Farmville Herald, with the understanding that they could reassess the decision if public feedback indicated dissatisfaction.

In addition to the newspaper discussion, the meeting included updates on the renovation of the social services facility. The project is progressing well, with HVAC and electrical work completed, and a projected completion date set for May 31, 2025. The board is also preparing for the arrival of a new animal control officer and upcoming training sessions with the Attorney General's office.

Overall, the meeting underscored the board's commitment to fiscal responsibility while navigating the complexities of public communication in a changing media landscape.