Residents split over Nelson County resolution opposing April 21 redistricting amendment

Dozens of Nelson County residents used the public‑comment period to press the Board of Supervisors on a draft resolution (R2026‑18) that would oppose the April 21 constitutional amendment allowing temporary congressional reapportionment.

Michael Heer, who identified himself as chairman of the Nelson County Republican Committee, urged the board to oppose the amendment, saying the change “will erase our voice” and that the measure is politically targeted. “If this referendum passes, Nelson County will be at the table asking for scraps,” Heer said. By contrast, Paul Sullivan, who said he chairs the Nelson County Democratic Committee, argued the board should not take an official position and should instead “table, withdraw, or otherwise defeat the resolution,” stressing that the issue is for Virginia voters to decide. Several other speakers made similar arguments on both sides, citing democratic process, partisan effects and local precedent.

Supporters of the board taking a position told supervisors the amendment risks diluting Nelson County’s congressional influence and urged reaffirmation of local priorities; opponents said a formal county stance would be presumptuous and could set a precedent for the board to weigh in on non‑local political questions. The meeting record shows repeated requests that supervisors allow their personal views to be expressed individually, not under the authority of the board.

What happens next: the resolution was the focus of extended public comment and will appear on the board’s agenda for consideration; speakers urged supervisors either to adopt a resolution opposing the amendment or to leave the question to the electorate.