Board appoints DeStefano to fill District 2 vacancy until special election

The Isle of Wight County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to appoint Mr. DeStefano to fill the interim vacancy in District 2 created by the death of Supervisor McCarty.

County Attorney Jones told the board the Code of Virginia allows the board to make an interim appointment within the statutory window and said the board had met the public-notice requirement. A board member then moved to appoint Mr. DeStefano; the motion passed on a roll call vote with Supervisors Jefferson, Acree, Rountree and Chairman Rosie recorded as voting yes.

Board members who spoke during the appointment described their choice as someone who had been engaged in county planning work. Supervisor Acree said he had not had an opportunity to meet in depth with Mr. DeStefano but added, “If he was good enough for Mr. McCarty, he’s good enough for me,” and expressed confidence in working with the appointee.

County staff told the board Mr. DeStefano must take the oath of office with the circuit court clerk and complete a statement of economic interests before he is qualified to participate formally. Counsel and staff said those steps were scheduled for the following morning; once done, Mr. DeStefano will be able to serve at subsequent meetings. The county attorney said the interim appointment runs until the special election, which will be held concurrently with the November general election; the certified winner will serve the remainder of the term through December 2027.

Chairman Rosie and other members welcomed Mr. DeStefano and indicated a brief photo opportunity was planned; the board noted the oath and ethics filing must be completed before the appointee takes a seat at the dais.