AGENDA DATE: 5/7/2025
TITLE:
Title
Proposed Change of the Branchlands Polling Place
BODY
SUBJECT/PROPOSAL/REQUEST: Public hearing on a proposed ordinance to move the polling place for the Branchlands Precinct to the Harvest Church of God
ITEM TYPE: Regular Action Item
STAFF CONTACT(S): Richardson, Herrick, Eddy, Davis
PRESENTER (S): Lauren Eddy
LEGAL REVIEW: Yes
REVIEWED BY: Jeffrey B. Richardson
BACKGROUND: Virginia Code ? 24.2-307 requires that the Board of Supervisors establish polling places by ordinance. Until recently, County Code ? 2-101(E) had set the Hillsdale Conference Center as the polling place for the Branchlands Precinct in the Rio Magisterial District. However, the owners of the Hillsdale Conference Center informed the General Registrar and the Albemarle County Electoral Board that following the November 2024 election, their facility could no longer be used as a polling place.
In addition, Virginia Code ? 24.2-129 requires that prior to moving a polling place, the governing body solicit public comment on the proposed change for at least 30 days or obtain a certification of no objection from the Virginia Attorney General.
On April 2, 2025, the Board adopted both (a) an emergency ordinance to move the Branchlands polling place and (b) a resolution directing staff to seek a certification of no objection from the Virginia Attorney General, as well as public comment.
STRATEGIC PLAN: Mission - To enhance the well-being and quality of life for all community members through the provision of the highest level of public service consistent with the prudent use of public funds.
DISCUSSION: The Albemarle County Electoral Board investigated many polling place locations for the Branchlands Precinct and recommends that the polling place be relocated to the Harvest Church of God at 1025 Rio Red East. The Church meets all Code and convenience requirements and has agreed to serve as a polling place. The attached map (Attachment A) shows the...
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