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Supervisors set hearings on easement, discuss leasing FEMA buyout lots and tighter county finances
Summary
Louisa County approved Resolution 202631 to set a public hearing on a nonexclusive access easement and discussed leasing county‑owned FEMA buyout lots. Staff warned reimbursements from the state have changed and county finances may be tight; the board asked staff about lease terms and public access rules.
The Louisa County Board of Supervisors approved Resolution 202631 to set a public hearing on a nonexclusive access easement on county land and discussed policies for leasing FEMA buyout and other county lots.
Board action: a motion to accept Resolution 202631 (to set a public hearing for August 4–5) passed by voice vote. Staff said the action formalizes a court‑ordered easement process and opens a public hearing so residents can comment.
FEMA buyouts and leases: the board discussed county‑owned lots acquired through FEMA buyouts. Staff said FEMA buyout land is subject to restrictions and cannot be sold in certain circumstances; the county can lease parcels. Board members asked whether leases would be first‑come, first‑served, the highest bidder, or prioritized to adjoining landowners. Staff said they have two current requests and that adjoining owners would likely be given preference while the board would set final terms.
Fiscal context: staff warned the county faces tighter finances because certain state reimbursements for tax credits are ending; the county will not receive the same reimbursement of two‑tier credits and will rely instead on adjustments to taxable value. "So it will definitely be tight for the county," staff said, noting valuation and reimbursement changes are still being processed.
Why it matters: easements affect property records and future land use; leasing FEMA buyout parcels raises policy questions about public access, permitted uses and fairness in allocation. The board set hearings and directed staff to prepare lease/term proposals and additional background for future decisions.
Next steps: public hearings were scheduled as part of the resolution; staff will work with counsel (Adam Parsons referenced) and return with lease proposals and clarifications on allowable uses under FEMA rules.
