Board approves $5,000 contribution to regional Virginia 250 land‑speed car effort

Franklin County’s Board of Supervisors voted Dec. 16 to provide $5,000 from the board contingency fund to support the regional Virginia 250 land‑speed car project.

Supervisor Tim Tatum moved the funding request, describing it as a regional promotional effort that includes partners from Henry and Patrick counties and Patrick & Henry Community College. He said the project will draw national publicity and provide promotional benefits for Southwest Virginia. The motion authorized county staff to negotiate and execute a memorandum of understanding governing the funding, including provisions for marketing, signage and videography. Supervisor Nick Mitchell seconded the motion; a roll call recorded unanimous approval from supervisors present (chair absent).

Opponents during the discussion questioned whether taxpayer funds should support building a race car when other community needs exist and sought clarity about criteria for approving similar grants in the future. Supporters argued the modest contribution would leverage private and regional partners and benefit local tourism and technical education programs.

The funding is to be administered through a fiscal agent (the Marshall‑Henry County Historical Society, per the motion) and will include terms to ensure deliverables and promotional credit to participating localities.