Attendees at the May 1 Craig County Board of Supervisors meeting filled the courtroom. Board chair Jesse Spence called the meeting to order at 6 p.m. Vice chair Jordan Labiosa, board members Carl Bailey and Keith Dunbar were in attendance. After the invocation and Pledge of Allegiance, reports were heard from Brian Blevins on VDOT activities, Woody Lipps on the Craig Valley Railbed Trail, and Michelle Poff and Jonathan Stanley regarding 4H and Virginia Tech Extension Services.
The board recognized the resignation of Dr. Huff as Craig County Schools Superintendent. Huff will be returning home to Carroll County as their new school superintendent. Spence read the board proclamation thanking Huff for his service and commitment the past two years. Other resolutions included appointments to the TAP Board of Directors Representative, and reappointment of existing EDA members.
Resolution 25-32 was adopted, passing the 2025-26 budget. Vice Chair Jordan Labiosa provided a statement regarding conflict of interest and assured the board and citizens of transparency regarding his business and county business. The board approved two motions about upcoming events, the Farmers Market opening is May 10, and the DAR 4th of July Parade.
A joint public hearing with the Planning Commission included a presentation from Lightshift on the BESS (Battery Energy Storage Unit). This is a “stand alone battery storage project” stated Gabby Mayer of Lightshift, “providing backup power” essential for Craig County residents. Safety concerns and the ability to stabilize electric rates were presented. Construction is anticipated by the end of 2025 and completion by the end of 2026. After hearing from design and engineering professionals, the board made a motion to approve the next phase of the project.
County Administrator Dan Collins gave the treasurers’ report, followed by the “hear the public” meeting end. Problems with the delay in moving the 311 Tattoo business from the residential community were again addressed, including sharing images from the business Facebook page with the board. The meeting wrapped up with Woody Lipps recognizing the 50 years of volunteer fire and rescue service Brent Crush has devoted to the people of Craig County, which was met with rousing applause. The next board of supervisors meeting will be Thursday, June 5 at 6 p.m.