Botetourt County’s latest edition of its “Getting to Know BOCO” newsletter marks the 10th installment of its ongoing effort to keep residents informed and engaged. June’s edition delivers a wide array of updates spanning government decisions, public safety recognitions, recreational improvements, and community celebrations.
A recap of the May 27 Board of Supervisors meeting highlights several key developments. Supervisor Steve Clinton participated remotely due to medical reasons with board approval. Significant recognition was given to Fire & EMS personnel, including Lt. Matt Scott for completing the Virginia Fire Officers Academy and Michael and Garry Rock, who received Lifetime Achievement Awards in honor of over 90 years of volunteer service. Their late father, Richard Rock, was honored posthumously, with the Rock family present for the tribute.
Financial approvals during the meeting included an $828,000 appropriation for one-time bonuses for school employees. Infrastructure topics covered by the Virginia Department of Transportation included ongoing maintenance and the adoption of the Six-Year Secondary Road Plan for FY26–FY31. The board also approved hiring a vehicle equipment technician for Emergency Communications and allocated up to $100,000 for an engineering study related to Orchard Lake Dam, which may be breached due to state-mandated safety regulations.
The Orchard Lake Dam segment of the newsletter clarified misconceptions previously published in the June 11 edition of The Fincastle Herald. Though the county owns only a small portion of the dam, it has supported local property owners by applying for a state grant to help with potential breach planning. The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation requires either bringing the dam into compliance or breaching it entirely. The county is not initiating the breach but is assisting with coordination and safety efforts.
Employment opportunities at the Botetourt Sports Complex and other departments were highlighted, encouraging job seekers to apply for seasonal and full-time positions. Community engagement was also strong this month, with the Girls’ Fire Camp on June 7 drawing praise. Young participants explored the world of Fire & EMS through hands-on activities, supported by instructors and regional volunteers.
Summer safety tips were shared to combat heat-related illness, offering residents guidance on hydration, clothing choices, and signs of heat exhaustion and stroke. Recreational facilities also saw exciting updates. Blue Ridge’s new dual-use pickleball and tennis courts, along with refurbished basketball courts, officially reopened on June 6. However, the Buchanan court ribbon cutting and community movie night were postponed, with new dates to be announced.
BOCO Wild, the county’s third annual outdoor recreation expo, drew over 800 attendees to Buchanan Town Park on June 14. New features like mountain biking and skateboarding broadened the event’s appeal. Sponsors and local partners helped make the event a success.
On the youth sports front, the undefeated BOCO Firecrackers were celebrated for winning the 10U RAYSA tournament. Late registrations for fall sports including football, soccer, and cheerleading are still open.
For book lovers, Botetourt County Libraries continue offering ways to find new reads through the online catalog, mobile apps, and in-person recommendations. Residents are invited to subscribe to the library’s digital newsletter to stay updated on events and activities, including a recent Japanese drumming demonstration.
Botetourt County remains committed to transparency, community involvement, and celebrating its people, as reflected in its recent newsletter. To read the county’s newsletter archive, visit www.botetourtva.gov/Blog.aspx?CID=1
~ Fincastle Herald staff report
