Commissioners press for current will‑serve letters and HRSD allocation details before hearings

Water and sewer capacity emerged as a recurring issue for both items on the work session agenda. On Mariner Farm, staff and the applicant argued the development would remove a water 'deadhead' and create a loop that could improve water quality in Captain's Cove, but commissioners asked for written confirmation from Aqua or DEQ showing current capacity and service commitments. "If this is built, they would be compelled to do that by DEQ, or is it just a good idea?" one commissioner asked; staff responded Aqua approves designs and will operate/maintain systems but the commission should see updated documentation.

On Duncan Manor, staff explained sewer capacity is linked to HRSD allocation (plant capacity cited at 750,000 gallons per day) and said Accomack County's share is roughly 182,000–187,000 gpd. Hammond noted the county cannot simply transfer the whole allocation to a single developer and suggested allocation and phasing decisions must be made: "We can't give our entire allocation to one developer," he said. Commissioners asked whether a change from central water to an on‑site water plant would require a conditional‑use permit amendment; staff responded yes, such a change would be a substantial enough change to warrant a revised application. Commissioners asked staff to return with will‑serve letters or current capacity statements before public hearings are authorized.