Board weighs asking court permission to file amicus brief on redistricting as residents urge protection of April 21 vote

Supervisor Dr. Leming said he wants the Gloucester County Board of Supervisors to authorize county counsel to ask the Supreme Court of Virginia for permission to file an amicus (friend‑of‑the‑court) brief in an appeal about congressional redistricting. He framed the request as a way for the county to register its view about the constitutionality and timing of the special election scheduled for April 21, 2026.

Dr. Leming told the board: “What I would like from the board this evening is the board's permission to have board counsel submit a request to the Supreme Court of Virginia seeking permission for the Gloucester County Board of Supervisors to draft and submit an amicus brief on the matter.” Counsel and multiple supervisors discussed what an amicus brief does and emphasized that the Supreme Court must grant permission before the county can file.

County Attorney Mr. Wilmont advised the board that the court sets the rules for accepting amicus briefs and that the board could instruct counsel to pursue leave, but that the request must be filed at the court's discretion. Board members were briefed about a March 16 filing deadline for a motion to seek leave; several supervisors asked for more public clarity about the brief’s scope before taking formal action. The board did not vote to file at the March 3 meeting; staff discussed placing the matter on a future agenda (March 9 or a later meeting) so the board could consider a motion and, if unanimous, authorize counsel to proceed.

Public comment at the meeting featured multiple speakers and written messages focusing on the same election question. Several callers and emails read into the record urged the board not to interfere with early voting beginning March 6 or with the April 21 special election. One emailed statement read: “Do not obstruct, delay, or interfere with the special election on redistricting on April 21st, 2026. Do not deny my vote.” Other residents expressed a variety of views, with some urging the board to register objections to the map and others asking the board to respect the registrar’s office and state law governing elections.

The board’s action at the meeting: no formal amicus brief was filed or authorized that night. Counsel and supervisors agreed to return the item to a future agenda, to provide clearer wording and legal background for the public, and to ensure any vote complies with local rules (which limit immediate action on items introduced without prior notice unless unanimous). The county will monitor deadlines in the Supreme Court of Virginia and consider a motion at a subsequent meeting if the board chooses to proceed.