Matthews County Board Holds Public Hearing on Sale of Former Hole in the Wall Restaurant

The Mathews County Board of Supervisors held a public hearing on August 1, 2025, to discuss the potential sale of the structure located at 384 Old Ferry, known as the Hole in the Wall restaurant. The meeting aimed to clarify the board's intentions regarding the property and gather public input on its future.

During the meeting, board members expressed interest in possibly hiring a firm to market the property. However, they emphasized that any commitment to sell would require a public hearing, as mandated by state law. The discussion clarified that the current motion pertains specifically to the structure and not the surrounding property, which has led to some confusion among community members.

Public comments highlighted significant concerns regarding the property's condition and its impact on local waterways. Residents voiced worries about the septic system's failure and the potential environmental hazards it poses. Dr. David Callas, one of the speakers, raised alarms about the contamination of local oyster beds and the loss of public access to water. Another resident, Paul Gibson, echoed these sentiments, arguing that the structure should not be sold back to previous owners due to their disregard for local environmental standards.

Several community members opposed the sale, suggesting that the property should instead be transformed into a public boat ramp to enhance access for local residents. They argued that selling the property would set a dangerous precedent and diminish public resources.

The board acknowledged the complexity of the situation, with members indicating that further research would be necessary before making any decisions. The public hearing allowed citizens to voice their opinions, with many advocating for a referendum to let the community decide the property's fate.

As the meeting concluded, the board members agreed to consider the feedback received and explore options that would best serve the interests of Mathews County residents. The future of the Hole in the Wall property remains uncertain, with further discussions and potential public hearings anticipated in the coming months.