Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Historic Preservation topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Board approves Johnson special exception; includes cemetery protections
Summary
A special-exception request by Barry and Nola Johnson for a manufactured home was approved with staff-recommended conditions and an added emphasis on preserving on-site cemetery access under state code 57-27.1.
The board approved a special exception for Barry and Nola Johnson (tax map 50-66) while addressing community concerns about an on-site historic cemetery.
Planning staff explained the parcel is wooded with an on-site cemetery; the Planning Commission recommended approval with conditions and a planning commissioner moved to add protections for the cemetery. Neighbor Clarence Hawks Jr. said the burial site is historic and urged clear marking and continued access; Hawks said, "I like for the cemetery to be protected." The applicant (speaking on behalf of the Johnsons) affirmed, "We are not gonna disturb the cemetery at all...we're not gonna move it."
Staff cited Virginia Code section 57-27.1 regarding access to cemeteries on private property and clarified that private owners may not erect barriers that prevent access but may designate hours and routes. The board approved the special exception and discussed adding language in county materials to clarify cemetery protections.
