Planning commission backs renewals, additions and one withdrawal for New Kent County agricultural and forestal districts

The New Kent County Planning Commission on June 16 voted to forward favorable recommendations to the Board of Supervisors for five agricultural and forestal district (AFD) renewals and additions and approved one withdrawal that would allow a family subdivision.

Patrick Silva, principal planner with the county Department of Community Development, told commissioners staff recommended approval of each item after finding no conflict with the county comprehensive plan and no adverse public-safety impacts. "Staff recommends approval of the withdrawal request" and of the renewal and addition petitions, Silva said during presentations.

The actions matter because AFD enrollment affects tax treatment and protections for agricultural and forestry uses and because withdrawal before a district’s expiration can trigger rollback taxes. Silva told the commission that a withdrawal prior to a district’s scheduled expiration would be subject to rollback taxes under the Code of Virginia (section cited in staff materials as 58.1-3237).

Key actions and details

- Withdrawal: Commissioners approved forwarding a favorable recommendation for a request by Howard W. Junior and Donna S. Brady to withdraw Tax Map Parcel 37-4 (about 67.7 acres) from the Warren High Swamp AFD so the owners can complete a family…