Buchanan District resident writes about Sept. Board meeting
The September Board of Supervisors (BoS) meeting was the first meeting in recent memory at which matters on the agenda came up for consideration before their scheduled time. What a difference it makes when only three speakers (two of which may have been included in those referred to as “howling monkeys” in a recent social media post someone made) spoke during the citizen comment period contrasted with the 30 such critters who spoke and/or attempted to dance at the August BoS meeting.
Furthermore, one who spoke complained about the minutes not setting out what each of the 30 speakers and/or dancers had said or done during the citizen comment period–specific to agenda at the August meeting. Just guessing here, but I sincerely doubt that anyone who did not attend that BoS meeting, and/or watch it on YouTube, would have any complaint about what was or was not reflected in the minutes regarding the citizen comment period–specific to agenda. If anyone were to attempt to do that, as much as those speakers ramble on in their presentations or as repugnant as their dancing may have been, then those performers could complain that the minutes did not reflect exactly what they said or correctly describe their nauseating performance.
It was pointed out that, in the past, there was a summary of what each speaker said. The best way for the August meeting minutes to address that complaint is to list each speaker or dancer and then refer them to the last three, five, eight, etc. previous meetings when each one spoke about everything at every opportunity, ad infinitum.
And then, the most disgusting and shameful action of the day, and probably of the year, was taken near the end of the meeting regarding Item 8 on the agenda – a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Roanoke County and Botetourt County. This MOU was not seeking any additional funding, as it was included in this year’s Parks & Recreation budget, which was approved by the Budget Subcommittee (chaired by Mr. Michael and vice-chaired by DC Rottman) and by the BoS.
This MOU was regarding therapeutic recreation services, which serve adults and children with developmental disabilities and empower them to gain the knowledge and skills for the development of a quality lifestyle to meet their interests and needs. In past years, citizens of Botetourt County were not able to get the services they wanted to receive and this MOU allowed them to sign up one week ahead of anyone who was not a part of this program. The already budgeted and approved expenditure of $15,000 for this would expand therapeutic recreation opportunities for our citizens with developmental disabilities. Those citizens participating in these programs would still have to pay the cost of whatever programs they choose. There was not and never has been any request for Botetourt County to pay those costs.
The mission of the Botetourt County Parks & Recreation Department is “To enhance the quality of life for all Botetourt County residents by providing structured, fun, and fitness-oriented recreational opportunities that promote teamwork, well-being, and community engagement.” It is submitted that, if our adults and children with developmental disabilities do not get the opportunity to enroll in these programs before all available spots are filled, then the above-stated mission is completely and totally missed, and the word “all” in the mission statement becomes meaningless.
Our disgraceful Disgruntled Californian (DC) Buchanan District Supervisor Rottman could barely wait to make the negative motion to deny the request. From her viewpoint, living on a 25+ acre parcel with her exotic riding horses and her 75’x150’ covered riding rink she enjoys with them, she could care less about those who are less fortunate than she. Oh yes, she talks a great game, but her actions speak much louder than her words. From starting out with a negative motion, which is improper, out of order and quite confusing, it appeared that it was not clear to all of the other supervisors about what it was upon which they were voting. Accordingly, this MOU with Roanoke County should be placed on the agenda for the October BoS meeting to be properly considered. If there is no motion to approve it, or, if there is a motion and no second, then it fails. If there is a motion to approve it and a second, then whatever the vote is determines its fate. And, if it fails, all Botetourt County citizens will know exactly which supervisors to blame in addition to DC Rottman, who will surely be upset if she can’t make the negative motion.
Are the past actions and comments by DC Rottman an indication of the disdain she bears for children, schools and libraries? When an elementary school student was allowed to speak first at the public hearing on the budget, she complained. Does it appear we can now add citizens with developmental disabilities to the matters for which she holds such an aversion?
In the Board Member Comments portion of the meeting, DC Rottman raised a question about splitting the meeting into sessions where some things can be heard in the afternoon, and others at 6 o’clock in the evening. Supposedly, that will be on a future agenda for discussion. I have suggested that there should be a separate day for the Chronic Complainers Club (now referred to by someone else as “howling monkeys”?) to gather for their drivel to be heard. How about that instead?
Years ago, BoS meetings were held in the evening and, due to lack of attendance, they were moved to the afternoon. We have had overflow crowds several times this year, so why do we need to change anything?
Bob Patterson
Fincastle
Buchanan District
Ben Cline – Six years of failed stewardship
The vote is in: Worst Conservation Steward of any of our 11 congressmen: Ben Cline.
There can only be one “worst” stewardship congressman in Virginia. The League of Conservation Voters has voted “the worst” award to Ben Cline. His six-year stewardship record: an easy to remember score: 0. Yes, zero.
Some of his votes are truly awful, and usually for his own constituents. An example: Cline voted for HR3838, a Trump toadie bill from New Jersey that would load up on crazy Trump regulations to kill offshore wind projects. The biggest impact would be on Virginia’s Dominion Power wind project, supported by everyone who can recognize a breeze. The Trump/Cline bill would:
- require the Secretary of Defense to certify wind projects would not interfere with radar
- require the Department of Transportation to do another study on the exact same subject Trump’s claim that wind projects impact radar has already been rejected by federal judges. Trump’s own Department of Defense has refuted Trump’s claims, too.
On September 10, 2025, the House of Representatives rejected the Trump/Cline wind project bill 3838 by a vote of 224 to 209. Trump/Cline lost and Virginians benefited. Again.
Trump and Cline rave and rant about too many regulations Trump doesn’t like how wind projects interfere with his views from his golf course, so Cline sucked up to Trump like he always does and voted for more Trump regulations.
Another example: A North Carolina Trump bill, HR 7023, would shield water polluters from taking responsibility when they dump pollutants into our streams, lakes and other waters.
This bill would undermine EPA’s process for permitting and make it easier to dump PFAS into our waters. It would eliminate EPA’s ability to stop the most devastating projects.
Another Trump/Cline bill that will hurt Cline’s own constituents.
One more example: Another Trump toadie bill HR 8070 from Arizona would exempt the Defense Department from the Endangered Species Act (ESA). The bill would kill the partnership between the Department of Defense (DOD), US Fish & Wildlife and state wildlife agencies to protect resources on DOD military lands.
Naturally, the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) was against this bill. Some other opponents: unhappy campers, hunters, fishermen, birders, hikers, crabbers, clammers, conservationists and all outdoor sports fans!
The House rejected this bill on June 12 by a vote of 231 to 196. No Congressman in Virginia voted for the 8070 Trump bill except Cline. I could go on and on, but you get the idea.
The alternative is before us: Beth Macy. Light years smarter, a more responsible steward, and ethical instead of all about how much money you can make as a congressman. Vote.
Bill Tanger
Cloverdale
Thank you for supporting book sale
The Fincastle Friends of the Library would like to thank everyone who came out to support our recent book sale.
Whether you purchased a bag of books, donated books, volunteered your time, or simply stopped by to say hello, your support makes a difference. The proceeds from the sale help the Fincastle Library provide furnishings, supplies, programs, special events, and activities for our community.
And if the book sale reminded you of the library, we hope it also reminds you that today’s library is much more than books!
Botetourt County Libraries provide free Wi-Fi and computer access, printing, scanning and fax services, free notary services, test proctoring, online learning resources, genealogy and local history research, and programs for children, families and adults. The Fincastle Library’s genealogy and local history resources are a wonderful example of the library’s role in preserving and connecting our community’s history.
So the next time you need a document notarized, have a test to take, need to print or scan something, want to research your family history, or simply want to learn something new, remember your local library.
Last, but certainly not least, a very special thank you goes to the Brae and Beck Garden Club for creating the beautiful new pollinator garden at the library. Their time, effort, and generosity have added something truly special to the library grounds and created a welcoming space for both our community and our local pollinators to enjoy.
Thank you, Botetourt community, for continuing to support the Fincastle Friends of the Library and the Fincastle Library. We are grateful to be part of such a generous community.
Jim Malue
Fincastle Friends of the Library
Sunflower Festival team expresses thanks
On behalf of my family and the Beaver Dam Farm Sunflower Festival team, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to our community for another incredible year. What began 11 years ago as a one-day idea has blossomed into one of the largest sunflower festivals and vendor shows on the East Coast, and it would not be possible without the support of our neighbors, volunteers, vendors, sponsors, and visitors near and far.
This year, visitors came to Buchanan to experience the beauty of our fields and the joy of gathering together. Their presence not only celebrates agriculture, but also creates a positive ripple effect throughout Botetourt County – from our local shops, tourism destinations and restaurants to our lodging partners and beyond.
We are especially grateful to the many volunteers and community members who give their time, energy, and talents. From parking cars and greeting guests, to cutting flowers and tending to the animals, you are a major part of this festival.
The Beaver Dam Farm Sunflower Festival is more than just a sea of blooms – it’s a celebration of family, farming, and community spirit. Thank you for making it possible year after year.
Candace W. Monaghan
Beaver Dam Farm Sunflower Festival
