By Matt de Simone
The Botetourt County Board of Supervisors approved a new approach for funding the preservation and maintenance of the county’s Historic Greenfield property during the December meeting, a move aimed at ensuring the continuity of ongoing restoration and educational efforts.
Amsterdam Supervisor Steve Clinton presented the agenda item on behalf of the Historic Greenfield Citizens Advisory Committee, emphasizing the dedication and accomplishments of the volunteer-led group. Clinton highlighted the committee’s fundraising successes, educational programs, and historic preservation projects, noting that volunteers have contributed an estimated 6,000 hours since the committee’s formation in 2017.
“This is all about a group of incredible volunteers who worked tirelessly to bring something into fruition that’s important to the county and its history,” Clinton said. He outlined numerous initiatives, including walking tours, Juneteenth programs, artifact displays, and partnerships with organizations such as the National Park Service and the Department of Historic Resources. Clinton also pointed to the National Historic Landmark designation for the three main Greenfield buildings and ongoing efforts to restore key structures, including the kitchen chimney.
The primary request before the board was to remove the previous annual funding cap of $50,000 and the requirement that county funds be matched dollar-for-dollar by outside sources. Under the approved motion, the Historic Greenfield Citizens Advisory Committee will now be invited to submit annual budget requests as part of the county’s regular budget process, giving the group flexibility to plan and maintain the property year-to-year.
Board Chair Amy White opened the floor for questions. Blue Ridge Supervisor Walter Michael voiced opposition to the motion, arguing that existing funding mechanisms and volunteer efforts were sufficient. “I don’t feel that we should burden the taxpayers when there is already a mechanism in place to do this work,” Michael said, comparing Greenfield to other regional historic sites such as Poplar Forest and Explore Park.
Clinton responded, noting that such comparisons were “inappropriate” given the unique scope and goals of the Historic Greenfield project, which focuses on preserving three specific historic structures rather than large-scale public parks. He also stressed that while the committee will continue fundraising, county support would provide stability and allow for continuous preservation work.
Members of the Historic Greenfield Advisory Committee attended the meeting and expressed their appreciation for Clinton’s leadership during the public comment period.
The board approved the motion with a 4-1 vote, with Supervisor Michael casting the dissenting vote. The decision ensures that the Historic Greenfield Citizens Advisory Committee can continue its volunteer-driven efforts while having the option to request county funding without restrictive preconditions.
Clinton emphasized the broader value of the project: “We’re sitting on a gold mine. This has great potential for community spirit, tourism, and historic preservation. Allowing this committee to submit annual requests ensures we don’t miss that opportunity for future generations.”
