Surry County EDA schedules Nov. 10 work session to shape small‑business grants and infrastructure plan; elects new secretary

Surry County Economic Development Authority members on Oct. 23 unanimously scheduled a public work session for 5 p.m. Nov. 10 to finalize details of a proposed small‑business grant program and discuss a broader infrastructure plan intended to support housing and economic development.

The work session vote was one of several unanimous procedural actions at the meeting. The authority also accepted its treasurer's report, approved prior meeting minutes and elected Doretha Pierce as EDA secretary.

Why it matters: Authority staff told members that limited public water and sewer capacity — plus Chesapeake Bay preservation rules — are constraining new housing and industry. Staff and board members said a targeted infrastructure strategy, tied to available grant programs and HRSD (Hampton Roads Sanitation District) connections, is needed before the county can attract and retain larger private investment.

The board's action: The authority voted to hold a public work session at 5 p.m. Nov. 10 to develop the small‑business grant program and to place that discussion in the context of the county's larger priorities. The motion passed unanimously.

Election of secretary: The authority elected Doretha Pierce to serve as EDA secretary; the motion passed unanimously.

Treasurer's report: Treasurer Joyce Henderson presented the authority's financial summary covering April through September and told members the…