Botetourt County continues to see exciting developments and community engagement, highlighted in June by major economic news, local government updates, and heartwarming community stories revealed in the latest “Getting to Know BOCO.”
At the June 24 Board of Supervisors meeting, one of the biggest announcements was the approval of a performance agreement for Google’s investment in the county. The tech giant’s arrival marks a significant step in economic development for the region, promising new opportunities for job creation and technological infrastructure.
The Board also addressed a community concern raised by the James River High School tennis team and local residents regarding the use of courts at Buchanan Elementary. After hearing passionate input, a compromise was reached: one court will be dedicated to the school’s tennis team, while another will be dual-lined for both tennis and pickleball, providing access for recreational use as well.
In courthouse news, construction continues at the historic site, with updates presented by Rich Evans and Jim Benn, Senior Project Manager. A project update video highlighted structural challenges, particularly involving the historic Breckinridge Law Office & Hotel building.
Emergency preparedness and response were also key topics. County staff and VDOT responded quickly to recent flooding in Eagle Rock, ensuring ongoing road repairs and public safety. Botetourt Fire & EMS received significant recognition, earning both the 2024 Horizon Award from Carilion Lifeguard and a trauma care commendation from Lewis Gale Medical Center for life-saving work in rural communities.
The county celebrated leadership and education milestones as well. Dr. Janet Womack was introduced as the incoming Superintendent of Botetourt County Public Schools, effective July 1, while Dr. Robert Sandel was honored for 24 years of leadership at Virginia Western Community College. In tribute to Dr. Sandel’s impact through the CCAP scholarship program, the Board voted to increase funding by $5,000.
Other county highlights included a funding boost for new furnishings at the Blue Ridge Library, infrastructure updates from VDOT, and the welcoming of new staff members across departments, including HR and Stormwater & Erosion Control.
Botetourt Fire & EMS also celebrated the graduation of seven new recruits from its academy. Firefighter/EMTs Jacob Cunningham, Nathaniel Immoos, Ryan Kern, Erik Lloyd, John McMahon, Benjamin Noffsinger, and Michael Pierce completed their training and are now ready to serve. Each graduate represents a commitment to public safety and community service.
In a moving feature, the county also spotlighted members of its Fire & EMS team, showcasing the diverse paths that brought them into the field. From military veterans to lifelong volunteers, these individuals are united by a shared mission to protect and serve. Their stories are available to watch online.
Botetourt County is also enhancing emergency communication through a switch from the Code Red alert system to Everbridge. The new system offers faster, multi-channel alerts to keep residents informed in real time about severe weather, fires, and other emergencies. Sign-up is available through text, phone, email, and the Everbridge app.
For recreation, indoor pickleball open gyms are now available at Breckinridge Elementary throughout July. Open to ages 12 and up, these sessions offer relief from the heat and a chance to get active. Equipment is provided, and courts are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Parks & Recreation continues to offer a wide variety of programs for residents of all ages. A full calendar of events is available on the county’s website.
History enthusiasts had the chance to explore the story of the Chesapeake & Ohio Railroad’s Craig Valley Branch in a presentation by Chuck McIntyre and Dave Ostrander. The talk detailed the 1880s iron boom and the short-lived but impactful railway that served rural Virginia for decades.
Botetourt County also reminded residents of its partnership with the Regional Center for Animal Care & Protection (RCACP), which shelters and finds homes for stray, abandoned, and surrendered animals. This month, two animals captured attention for very different reasons.
While the “Getting to Know BOCO” newsletter takes a short break, residents are encouraged to stay connected through the county’s official website and social media channels. The next Board of Supervisors meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, July 22 at 2 p.m. at the Botetourt County Administration Center in Greenfield and will be livestreamed for those unable to attend in person.
~ Fincastle Herald staff report
