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Rockbridge
The Rockbridge County Board of Supervisors will hold a public hearing Dec. 11 on an ordinance to support the dissolution of the Valley Alcohol Safety Action Program and transfer of its services to the Virginia Alcohol Safety Action Program.
Ashton Harrison, the county’s director of finance who serves on VASAP’s advisory committee, reported to the supervisors Nov. 27 that the state-level commission has been providing the services since the resignation of VASAP staff this past summer. Committee members are in agreement, he said, that the localities cannot afford to provide these services and that the state is in a better position to do so.
Buena Vista City Council recently adopted a resolution of support for the dissolution of the regional program and transfer of its services to the state agency.
Participation In Upper James Group Affirmed
Rockbridge County’s continued participation in the Upper James Resource Conservation and Development Council was affirmed Nov. 27 by the Board of Supervisors.
UJRC&D is a nonprofit organization represented by multiple jurisdictions whose mission is to improve the water quality, outdoor amenities and overall resiliency in the Upper James River region. It initiates, develops and promotes regional projects benefiting outdoor recreation, land conservation, water resources, environmental education and public outreach in a sustainable way.
The council meets regularly and provides a platform for organizations and local governments to discuss environmental issues and potential solutions. The UJRC&D has managed stream monitoring programs, conducted Meaningful Watershed Education Experiences for public schools, led group activities like river floats and completed rain barrel workshops, among other activities.
The council’s long-time president, Genevieve Goss, recently retired, and the organization is in the process of determining a path forward. Member localities include the counties of Alleghany, Bath, Botetourt, Craig, Highland and Rockbridge and the cities of Covington, Buena Vista and Lexington.
Each jurisdiction has been asked to affirm its continued participation and appoint a representative to attend quarterly meetings. Rockbridge County Administrator Spencer Suter has agreed to continue serving in this capacity.
