Speech rules floated for county property, events
PAGE 5
Redistricting Could Move
Fluvanna to New District
PAGE 3
Flucos Fall in Hard-fought District Matchup
PAGE 5
Sheridan Honored for Three Decades of Service
PAGE 9
THIS WEEK’S PET: Ferrero
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BY HEATHER MICHON EDITOR
Virginia Legislative Information System.
Fluvanna County has been a cornerstone of Virginia’s Fifth Congressional District since James Madison faced off against his friend James Monroe in the first congressional elections of 1789.
But if a high-stakes mid-decade redistricting plan comes to fruition later this spring, the county may find itself a new neighborhood for the first time in centuries.
Virginia Democrats unveiled their proposed “10-1” redistricting map on Thursday (Feb 5), showing Fluvanna as part of a redrawn Sixth District.
The map is specifically engineered to shift Virginia's delegation from a 6-5 split to a 10-1 Democratic advantage by taking pieces of deep-blue Northern Virginia and other urban centers, and stretching them into rural districts to tip the scales.
While proponents of the new map say it is a corrective measure to level the playing field and ensure that representation in Washington reflects Virginia’s Democratic tilt, critics argue that it is a hyper-partisan gerrymander that erases traditional boundaries and manufactures an outcome.
The
College Town District
For Fluvanna County, the shift would mark a clear break from its rural Southside roots and dilute the influence of the county’s reliably conservative electorate by placing it in a district dominated by larger, Democratic-leaning population centers.
At the same time, some political analysts caution against viewing the proposed Sixth District as permanently
out of reach for Republicans. While the map is designed to favor Democrats in high-turnout, blue-leaning election cycles, analysts note that outer localities–such as Fluvanna–could still play a meaningful role in closer contests.
In a strong Republican year, turnout in rural counties on the district’s edges could narrow margins or even tip the balance, particularly in midterm elections where voter participation often drops in urban areas.
Under that scenario, Fluvanna and similar counties could function less as political passengers and more as swing territory within an otherwise Democratic-leaning district.
April referendum in doubt
The next step for the "10-1 Map" is an emergency review by the Virginia Supreme Court.
While Governor Abigail Spanberger has signed the bill to schedule a state wide referendum for April 21, the vote is currently in limbo following a January 27 ruling by Tazewell County Judge Jack S. Hurley, Jr.
Hurley declared the Democrats’ attempt to bypass the independent re districting commission null and void, ruling that they violated procedural rules by passing the amendment during an improperly expanded special session.
unusual step of asking the higher court immediately take up the case, saying “these appeals present questions of such imperative public importance as to justify the deviation from the normal appellate practice and to require a prompt decision in the Supreme Court.”
The justices are expected to rule on the case by late February.
If they uphold this ruling, the April referendum will be canceled, the new maps will be scrapped, and Fluvanna will remain in the current Fifth District for the 2026 midterms.
However, if the Supreme Court reverses the lower court's decision, the focus shifts immediately to the voters, who will have just weeks to decide the state’s political future.
The Virginia Court of Appeals took the
WHOLESALE TIRE COMPANY
The Weekly Crossword by Margie E. Burke
Quitting social media is the new trend
BY PAGE H. GIFFORD CORRESPONDENT
A growing number of people — especially Gen Z, young adults and older Americans — are reducing or quitting social media to protect their mental health, ease anxiety, and escape content fatigue.
Users are taking breaks or leaving platforms such as Facebook and Instagram, saying the apps increase stress.
Meanwhile, engagement is shifting to TikTok, YouTube and X, where people are more likely to build a brand, gather information or network rather than scroll passively or endure online arguments.
Many cite “platform fatigue” as the tipping point: an unpleasant environment, wasted time and pressure to maintain a polished image. Juggling multiple apps and digital tools can lead to information overload, fragmented data and burnout, all of which sap productivity.
The trend has fueled “posting zero,” a movement away from sharing content altogether. As feeds become dominated by brands, influencers and AI-generated posts, some users say social media no longer feels social. What once felt fun now feels like a chore — or a performance competing
for attention.
Psychologists often compare social media to gambling. The cycle of checking notifications and waiting for likes or comments mirrors reward-based behavior, made more addictive by unpredictable payoffs.
For many, the realization is simple: seeking validation online was never the point. While the original promise of connecting with friends and family remains, it’s often buried beneath curated content and constant noise.
The result is a shift toward “digital minimalism.” People are choosing smaller, private or direct-message spaces instead of public feeds. Those who step back frequently report better sleep, lower anxiety and less comparison-driven stress.
Others bypass social media entirely, prioritizing real-world experiences, hobbies, careers and close relationships. Rather than chasing likes, they value authentic connections and personal growth.
They may seem anti-social to some. More often, they’re simply setting boundaries — choosing depth over distraction and life off-screen over life on display.
Edited by Margie E. Burke
Fluvanna boys fall to Charlottesville Black Knights
BY DUNCAN NIXON CORRESPONDENT
The Fluvanna boys’ basketball team hosted the Charlottesville Black Knights on Feb. 3. Charlottesville came out shooting. It’s hard to beat a team that sinks 13 three-point shots.
The Black Knights went 13-for-31 from long range, while the Flucos were just 2-for-10, resulting in a 39-6 scoring advantage from beyond the arc. The final score was Charlottesville 79, Fluvanna 48.
The game opened with a Charlottesville 3-pointer. The Flucos held their own, though, and the quarter ended with the Black Knights hitting a last-second basket to take a 12-10 lead. Senior Fluco forward Brady Crisp had two baskets, including one on a nice pass from junior Antwon Carter.
In the second quarter, the Black
Knights pulled away for good. They made six 3-pointers and outscored the Flucos 26-12 to take a 16-point lead into halftime. Senior Fluco Andre Key added two inside baskets and an impressive blocked shot.
In the third quarter, leading scorer Carter broke through against a defense that had focused heavily on him in the first half. A player who thrives near the basket, Carter frequently draws contact and trips to the foul line. He finished the quarter with two baskets and six free throws.
With the outcome no longer in doubt, Charlottesville outscored Fluvanna by eight in the fourth.
Fluvanna’s 3-pointers came from junior Noah Washington in the third quarter and senior Amir Toney in the fourth. Carter led the team with 12 points, while Crisp added eight and Toney and Key scored six each. The Flucos were competitive on the boards, trailing just 39-35 in rebounds, and held an edge in points in the paint. They also recorded six blocked shots to Charlottesville’s two.
The Flucos’ final two games were on the road — Feb. 6 at Goochland and Feb. 10 at Orange. The team’s record was not strong this season, but coach Heath Bralley noted afterward that the squad was very young.
Proposed county budget tops $160.9M, calls for 1-cent tax increase
County explores ‘expressive activity’ rules after summer incidents
BY HEATHER MICHON EDITOR
Fluvanna County’s proposed budget could top $160 million in the coming year, driven by rising operating costs, infrastructure needs and public safety staffing — and could require a modest increase in the real estate tax rate to balance the books.
County Administrator Eric Dahl presented a $160,963,620 budget for Fiscal Year 2027, a jump of nearly $35 million, or 27.7%, over the amended FY26 budget, during a work session following the Board of Supervisors meeting Wednesday night (Feb. 4).
To help fund the increase, Dahl recommended raising the real estate tax rate by one cent, from $0.75 to $0.76 per $100 of assessed value, an increase he said would cost the average homeowner about 1.33% more. All other tax rates would remain unchanged.
The cost pressures behind the increase were largely familiar: higher prices for goods and services, efforts to keep employee pay and benefits competitive, maintenance of aging vehicles and infrastructure, and ongoing debt payments.
Two major variables remain unresolved.
Dahl based his proposal on the assumption that the school division’s funding request will remain roughly flat compared with FY26 and that employee health insurance premiums will rise about 8%. Both figures could change in the coming weeks, potentially altering the final budget.
Until the School Board finalizes its budget and insurance quotes are received later this spring, their impact on the final county budget is unclear.
Essential services prioritized
Reflecting what Dahl described as the county’s fiscally conservative approach, the proposal focuses on what officials view as essential or no longer deferrable needs.
For example, the budget funds eight new positions, including four EMS staffers, an assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney, and other critical roles. At the same time, about a dozen requested Proposed county budget continues on page 6.
A smooth tax filing experience starts before your return is prepared. When your information is organized and easy to follow, everything moves faster and feels far less stressful. This checklist gives you a simple, practical way to gather all your tax information.
R Use last year as your cheat sheet. Start with your most recent tax return. Skim it to remind yourself what showed up last year and what’s likely to appear again. This keeps you from forgetting income sources or hunting for documents you never needed in the first place.
R Lock down the basics first. Confirm names, addresses, Social Security numbers, and bank details. Small errors here can cause outsized delays later, so handle this upfront before you touch anything else.
R Create one home for everything. Pick a single folder, digital or paper. Give every tax-related document one clear landing spot so nothing drifts off and disappears.
R Sort documents by income or expense type. Group forms by what they represent, not who sent them. Keep job income together, side income together, and investment income together. This mirrors how a return is built and makes patterns obvious.
R Capture income that doesn’t come with a form. Write down cash, side gigs, resale activity, or digital payments that didn’t generate official paperwork. If money came in, assume you need to report it on your tax return.
R Pull records that support deductions and credits. Gather mortgage interest, property taxes, charitable donations, medical costs, education expenses, and childcare records. When in doubt, include it with your tax documents.
R Flag big life changes in plain language. Make a short list of what changed last year – new job, move, marriage, divorce, baby, home purchase or sale. These details often drive tax outcomes more than numbers alone.
R Summarize business or side income cleanly. Provide totals instead of a shoebox full of receipts. List income, categorize expenses, include mileage and home office details, and note any estimated payments you made. Clarity here saves real time.
R Label files likea stranger will read them. Name documents so someone else instantly understands them. Include the year and a brief description. Clear labels prevent follow-up questions and missing pieces.
R Note what’s missing instead of guessing. If a document hasn’t arrived yet, say so. Don’t estimate, round, or substitute last year’s numbers. Accuracy beats speed every time.
R Write down questions outside the documents. Collect your questions in one place rather than scattering comments throughout your files. This keeps the review process clean and focused.
R Do one final scan before. Does everything make sense? If yes, you’re ready to hand it off with confidence.
A little preparation goes a long way. When you organize your information clearly, your tax return can be prepared more efficiently, reviewed more thoroughly, and filed with greater confidence. Please don’t wait to make your appointment now. Please call us at 434-442-4044 or email us at info@rwftaxservices.com. Remember, we are setup to do in-person, virtual or hybrid preparation.
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Photo by Duncan Nixon.
positions — including some in Parks and Recreation, Public Works and the library — were not funded.
Capital plan dominated by Fork Union project
Separate from the operating budget, the county’s Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) outlines one-time infrastructure spending.
Dahl projects a $52.5 million CIP budget for FY27.
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For now, those conversations are on hold.
Supervisors have roughly 10 weeks to review the proposal, with key dates ahead:
• March 4: deadline to set maximum proposed tax rates
• April 1: public hearing on the proposed budget
• April 8: final vote on the budget, CIP and tax rates
• Expressive Activity
Of that, roughly $43 million would go toward a new Fork Union water system. Unlike most capital projects, which rely on reserves or borrowing, Dahl said the water system would be paid for largely with funds provided by Dominion Energy under an agreement tied to the capped coal-ash landfill at the former Bremo Power Plant.
Looking ahead
Dahl described the county’s finances as stable but suggested supervisors may eventually need to consider diversifying revenue sources to reduce reliance on property taxes.
The meals tax adopted in 2025 is one example, he said, noting it spreads costs beyond homeowners. Other potential options could include an annual business license fee or a Business, Professional and Occupational License (BPOL) tax.
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Fluvanna County officials are drafting a new “expressive activity” policy aimed at clarifying when residents may petition, distribute literature or campaign on county property, saying the current lack of formal guidelines has led to confusion and inconsistent responses.
County Attorney Dan Whitten told the Board of Supervisors the draft policy would allow noncommercial activities like leafleting and petitioning in public areas of county facilities, parks and grounds, with reasonable “time, place and manner” limits intended to protect safety and government operations without discriminating based on message.
Violations could lead to warnings, removal and, if necessary, trespass enforcement.
The discussion follows at least two incidents last summer where staff intervened during public events: employees approached Commissioner of the Revenue candidate Donald Reynard about campaigning during a county event, and a vendor at the Arts in the Park festival was reprimanded for collecting signatures on an anti-Tenaska petition at their booth.
Under U.S. law, governments can impose content-neutral “time, place and manner” regulations on speech, such as limits on where signs may be placed, hours of activity or permit requirements, so long as they do not target the message, are narrowly tailored to serve a significant interest, and leave open alternative channels for expression.
No motion was introduced Wednesday, and any policy changes must return for a public hearing before a vote.
But between last summer’s enforcement disputes and fresh criticism from residents, the proposal appears poised for a more contentious debate.
During public comments at the end of the meeting, Millie Fife questioned whether the policy risks placing limits on constitutionally protected speech.
“I’m not sure why my freedom of speech means that I have to try and comply with whatever the mission is of the county,” she said. “This is sort of being sprung on us, and I hope that this is something that gets a lot more airtime so that other people can try and understand what’s going on, and what you do or do not want to allow to be said.”
Ad
LMOA Holds 4th of July T-Shirt Design Contest
Lake Monticello Owners' Association (LMOA) is looking for a t-shirt design to help celebrate America’s 250th Birthday during its annual Independence Day celebrations. Submit designs by March 1, 2026, online or by dropping them off at Member Services (41 Ashlawn Blvd.). Designs should be patriotic in nature and represent Lake Monticello in an appropriate and respectful manner. Staff will narrow designs down to the top 5, and voting will be open to the community on March 4th. The winner will be announced on April 6, 2026 and will receive a T-shirt with their design as well as an LMOA “swag bag”. The shirt and corresponding merchandise will be available for residents to purchase online starting in the spring. Please note: Participants must be 18 or older and understand that the rights to the winning design will become the property of LMOA.
Time to Run for the Board!
The LMOA Board has scheduled the association’s Annual Meeting of Members for June 27, 2026. This year, four Board positions are open, and LMOA is seeking committed Members in good standing to fill these roles. Petitions for board candidates and member proposals are now available online or at Member Services (41 Ashlawn Blvd.). Members in good standing must gather 150 signatures of support and submit their petitions by March 30, 2026. Following
signature verification, the Board will announce the certified candidates and proposals in April. Member proposals enable homeowners to suggest policy changes for a membership vote, provided they involve amendments to the Bylaws, repeal or modification of Rules and Regulations adopted by the Board, and do not conflict with the Articles of Incorporation, Bylaws, Statements of Subdivision, or applicable law. LMOA staff will once again facilitate digital signature collection. Voting will take place in the last week of May. For questions about the process, please contact Megan Fitzgerald, the Executive Assistant, at mfitzgerald@lmoa.org.
Aqua Virginia’s Rate Case
On July 30, 2025, AQUA submitted a new request for a 26.42% increase in water rates and a 29.95% increase in wastewater rates, amounting to $7.9 million annually. When this happened in the past, opposing comments from our community resulted in Aqua Virginia not receiving the full amount requested. For example, a similar case was considered by the SCC in 2023, and the community responded by submitting more than 2,800 comments opposing the increase. If you wish to participate again, you have until April 28, 2026. Here are some steps you can take: Send your comment opposing Aqua Virginia’s request to the SCC on their website: scc.virginia.gov. It is advised to be as specific as possible and provide any supporting photos, videos, or documents you may have.
If you have reported a specific issue to Aqua Virginia, and they have not resolved it to your satisfaction, you can submit it through the relevant Virginia SCC complaint page. Comments about the rate increase are only reviewed by the hearing officer, but complaints related to service or water quality require the utility provider's response. The case number is PUR-2025-00071. The next Water Workgroup is scheduled for February 11, 10 –11:30 AM in the Ashlawn Clubhouse Terrace Room A. This meeting is for local infrastructure upgrade updates and better communication between LMOA and our water and wastewater utility.
Laughter Yoga with Hygeia Wellness Park
Join instructor Marge Thompson for Laughter Yoga in the Ashlawn Clubhouse Lake Room on February 21, 2026, at 2 PM. When you laugh, you burn calories and all your body systems are affected in a positive manner! No special equipment needed. Confirm your spot with Cynthia Moore at cynhygeia145@gmail.com.
LMOA Hosts Town Hall
To ensure Lake Monticello residents are up to speed on the proposed Tenaska Expedition Generating Station, the Lake Monticello Board of Directors have arranged a town hall to take place on February 12 from 6 – 8 PM at the Fairway Clubhouse. All Lake residents are invited to learn more about the project, ask
questions, and voice concerns about the impact it could have on our community. Visit lmoa.org to learn how to sign up to speak or call Member Services at 434-589-8263. Only Lake Monticello residents will be allowed to sign up. The meeting will be broadcast live on LMOA's Comcast Channel and streamed live on LMOA's YouTube Channel.
Golf Job Opportunity
Lake Monticello Golf Course is looking for a dependable and experienced Golf Course Mechanic to help keep our course and equipment in top condition. For more information, call the Golf Pro Shop at 434-589-3075.
Ice on Waterways is Unsafe
As temperatures rise and ice continues to melt, we urge residents to remain off the ice. Please do not attempt to skate or walk on the Lake, ponds, or coves as the ice is not frozen enough to hold your weight and is very dangerous. Please be sure to communicate this with your families.
This Weekend at the Bistro
Come to Bunker Bistro this Friday night for live music by Sue Harlowe on Guitar at 6 PM or celebrate VALENTINE’S DAY with someone special Saturday night. Visit bunkerbistro.com for details or call 434-591-0106 to make a reservation.
Sheridan honored for decades of service
BY HEATHER MICHON EDITOR
Photo by Heather Michon.
The Fluvanna County Board of Supervisors began its Feb. 4 meeting with a standing ovation and a formal proclamation honoring longtime Commissioner of the Revenue Mel Sheridan, marking
CLASSIFIEDS
the close of a public-service career that stretched more than three decades.
The proclamation recognized Sheridan’s tenure from January 1994 through December 2025, first as Columbia District supervisor and later as commissioner. He served 10 years on the Board of Supervisors before being elected commissioner in 2004, a role he held for 22 years.
Sheridan announced his retirement in the summer of 2025. In November, Deputy Commissioner of the Revenue Lauren Ryalls Sheridan won a special election to complete the remainder of his term.
Speaking to the board, Sheridan said the path that brought him back home to serve the county wasn’t something he could have predicted when he left the military.
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Contact – Edee@fluvannareview.com, office at 106 Crofton Plaza, Ste 1, Palmyra, VA. Office (434) 207-0221. 40 word limit.
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EVENTS
SHROVE TUESDAY: Cunningham United Methodist Shrove Tuesday PANCAKE DINNER on February 17, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Enjoy the company of friends & Neighbors while supporting the ministries of CUMC’s Men’s Group. Call 336-817-9341 for more information.
CALENDAR FUNDRAISER: Fluvanna Co Ruritan Club is selling 2026 calendars for $10.00, a great holiday gift! The sales are going to find our scholarships and community service projects. Please support our students and young athletes with your purchase(s). Contact Sandy Turner (571) 208-2895 or email FluvannaRuritanClub@ gmail.com for more information.
BINGO IS BACK ! at Lake Monticello Volunteer Fire & Rescue Squad, 10 Slice Road, every Friday night. Doors open at 5 p.m. First game at 6:30 p.m. Progressives, pull tabs, and a $1000 jackpot every week! Cash only. No one under 16 allowed. All others welcome!! Join us for a fun & Friendly night out.
REAL ESTATE
LORI CLICK “YOUR MIRACLE AGENT”Ask me what a Miracle Agent is and how you can be involved. Contact me for a free Neighborhood Market Analysis of your home’s value. I proudly service Charlottesville, Va, & Lake Monticello areas. Lori at (434) 326-7593, or loriclick@remax. net, www.loriclick.com, www.facebook. com/LoriClickYourFavoriteRealEstatePro.
GENEVIEVE REILLY, REALTOR: Long & Foster Gold Team, Lake Monticello Office – Thinking about selling or buying a new home? Let’s work together to make that dream happen. “Energetic. Passionate.
Knowledgeable. Devoted. All about the client.” Call/ Text or e-mail me (434) 4144453, genevievearlinereilly@gmail.com
RENTALS
ROOM AT LAKE MONTICELLO FIRE HOUSE: The Maple Room is located at the LM Volunteer Fire House, 10 Slice Road, Palmyra, Va. It is the perfect location to host meetings, birthday parties, wedding receptions, anniversaries and other events in a comfortable setting. The facility can accommodate parties of 100 or more. Call Eileen Monahan at (434) 962-4656. Email: mapleroomrentals@lmvfr.org.
FIRST VIRGINIA HOMES: We provide Property Management services in Central Virginia Region. Also House Watch services. Call us at 434-589-3958. Look us up: www. firstvirginahomes.com
MONTICELLO PROPERTIES
MANAGEMENT: Long and Foster office at 3661 Lake Monticello Road, Palmyra, VA. For current home rentals: contact Genevieve at (434) 589-7653 or email: MonticelloPropertiesMgt@gmail.com
SERVICES
HANDYMAN: 20 years of experience in carpentry, siding, trim work, painting, landscaping and leaf removal. New flooring and repairs. Roof repairs and gutter cleaning. Reasonable rates. Call Todd at (434) 996-2254.
HELP WITH YOUR TRASH BINS: Serving Lake Monticello and Charlottesville. Our service takes your tote to the curb for local garbage pickup and brings it back to your home. We offer payment plans/ options – including discounts for senior & disabled persons.* We also provide JUNK REMOVAL. Contact us @(540) 556-8890, tyler@trashMasterServices.com, online > TrashMasterServices.com
REASONABLE TREE SERVICE: Professional tree removal, trimming, and MORE! Flexible service options. Quotes may be negotiated to fit your budget. We are insured and local! Call Wilber Tree Service for fast, safe results> (434) 308-TREE
“So I finished in ’98, and I had no clue what I was going to do,” he said, later adding that he “found my way into the commissioner’s office”.
Despite describing the work as sometimes grueling, he said serving had always felt worthwhile.
“The 10 years on the Board of Supervisors … lots of bumps in the road, but you feel like you’re contributing,” he said.
Looking back, Sheridan highlighted one decision from his time on the board that he believes will outlast them all: the purchase of Pleasant Grove Park.
“I thought that it was a significant achievement — it was being a part of the purchase of Pleasant Grove,” he said.
Recalling the scale and price of the acquisition, he added, “I’d like to see another 996 acres for about $1,043,000. I think in 100 years from now, Pleasant Grove will still be considered a good
SEW WHAT? Alterations for Wedding gowns, Bridesmaids, Groomsmen attire, etc. and other Bridal Party attendees. Alterations for Prom dresses. Regular clothing alterations: dresses, pants, jackets, etc. Pillows. Call Ms. Wallace for appointment at (434) 842-2860.
YOUR LAKE MONTICELLO REALTOR:
Offering 20 + years experience, with over 650 homes sold. Providing free market analysis and expert advice on listing your home. Call your local Realtor: IRIS HELFRICH, 434-981-9956.
SERENITY COMPUTERS: Onsite computer repair for your home or business. Wireless setup, networking, troubleshooting. Phone and Tablet help, Tutoring, data backup & more. Reasonable rates. Over 15 years’ experience. Call (434) 825-2743
CARPENTER: Over 40 years’ experience! Furniture Repair work. Table legs wobbly? Chair back/seats need reinforcement? Dresser drawers not closing? Call me for FREE estimates. Tom Maschi (434) 981-3707.
PEGGY SHANKLIN REALTOR: Your lady at the Lake. Proudly serving Lake Monticello and surrounding areas. Contact for a FREE Comparative Market Analysis of your home’s value! Local, Dedicated, Knowledgeable, Dependable. (434) 962-2762 or email: peggy.shanklin@longandfoster.com, or https://www.facebook.com/PeggyShanklin-Realtor.
CLIMATE CONTROLLED SELF STORAGE: at Lake Monticello across from Food Lion Grocery Store. Jefferson Centre Self Storage features 24/7 Access, On-Site Kiosk, Security Cameras and Month-toMonth Availability. Call (434) 906-4030, email: Jeffersoncentre@cbsrentals.com, or visit: jeffersoncentreselfstorage.com today!
SPECIAL NOTICES
MACAA FOOD PANTRY NEW HOURS: Monday: 1 to 6 pm., Tuesday: NO food pick-up, Wednesday: 10 am to 2 pm., Thursday: 1 to 6 pm., Friday: 10 am to 2 pm., Saturday: Every 3rd. Saturday of the Month from 10 am to 2 pm. Location: 8878
county asset.”
He also credited the people behind the scenes, saying the office’s success depended on staff.
“I’ve met, worked with, and became family with some of the most dedicated people,” Sheridan said. “And I can tell you, the best thing I ever did was hire them”.
Supervisors praised Sheridan’s institutional knowledge, professionalism, and steady leadership, presenting him with a plaque before transitioning to the evening’s regular agenda.
After years of numbers, deadlines, and tax seasons, Sheridan told the room he’s ready for a slower pace.
“I’m looking forward to the next chapter,” he said with a smile.
VIRGINIA DEPT. OF VETERANS
SERVICES: Need Help? Attention Veterans and Dependents! Visit us at the Fluvanna Community Center, 5725 James Madison Highway > by appointment only. Call Jeannette Flint at (434) 529-6431 to schedule your appointment. www.dvs. virginia.gov
WANTED
2026 FSPCA SPONSORS: If you would like to sponsor a Pet of the Week photo, email edee@fluvannareview.com or call (434) 207-0221 no texts accepted. The pet photos are sent to us from the Fluvanna shelter each week. The photos help find forever homes for our four legged furry friends. You may place your business, special occasion, memorial narrative , etc. at the bottom of each pet picture.
VOLUNTEERS FOR MACAA FOOD PANTRY: We are seeking enthusiastic volunteers to help support MACAA’s work in the Fluvanna community. Tasks: food pickups, sorting donations, stocking, packing boxes, checking in visitors, and other minor tasks. Volunteer hours: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. , M-F. No prior experience needed – training will be provided. Call (434) 8422521 or email foodpantry@macaa.org.
MEALS ON WHEELS: Drivers needed, regular and substitute positions available – Kidds Store & Fork Union. Apply online www.mealsonwheelsfluvanna.org. or phone our volunteer, coordinator
MAPLE
James Madison Hwy., Fork Union, VA. Phone (434) 842-2521.
PUBLIC HEARING
Fluvanna County Board of Zoning Appeals
Tuesday, February 17, 2026 at 7:00 pm
Pursuant to Virginia Code Section 15.2-2204, a public hearing will be held in the Morris Room of the Fluvanna County Administration Building, located at 132 Main Street Palmyra, VA 22963 for citizens of the County to have the opportunity to be heard by the Board of Zoning Appeals on the following request:
BZA 26:08 – Giacomo Cracchiolo: A request for a one hundred (100) foot variance to section 22-4-3 (D) of the Fluvanna County Code to allow a reduction of the required lot width at setback, and for a fifty (50) foot variance to section 22-4-3 (E) (2) of the Fluvanna County Code to allow a reduction of the required front setback for the parcel identified as Tax Map 17, Section 29, Parcel 1. The subject property is zoned A-1, Agricultural, General, and is located in the Rivanna Community Planning Area and in the Cunningham Election District.
The meeting of the Board of Zoning Appeals will be in person and instructions for public participation during the meeting will be made available on the Fluvanna County website: www.fluvannacounty.org Interested persons may submit written comments prior to the scheduled meeting to planning@fluvannacounty.org or call 434.591.1910, between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm Monday – Friday or visit the County Administration Building at 132 Main Street Palmyra, VA 22963.
PUBLIC HEARING
Fluvanna County Board of Supervisors Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at 7:00 p.m.
Pursuant to VA Code Section 15.2-2204, a public hearing will be held in the held Fluvanna County Circuit Court at 72 Main Street, Palmyra, VA 22963 for citizens of the County to have the opportunity to be heard by the Board of Supervisors on the following item:
ZMP 25:05 Kevin and Ashley Wright – A request to rezone from A-1, Agricultural, General, to R-1, Residential, Limited 7 +/- acres of Tax Map 50-A-129D. The subject property is generally located on the west side of Gold Mine Road (Route 671) approximately 0.1 mile north of West River Road (Route 6). The parcel is located within Fork Union Election District and the Rural Residential Planning Area. Copies of the complete text of the above ordinances and associated plans are available for public review at the Office of the Fluvanna County Administrator during normal business hours. Questions may be directed to the Planning & Zoning Department, at (434) 591-1910. All interested persons wishing to be heard are invited to attend the public hearing.
Correction:
First paragraph , very last word is plural and should be ‘item’: please delete the ‘s’.
VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE COUNTY OF FLUVANNA EDNA M. SMITH Plaintiff, Defendants. v. ALL PARTIES UNKNOWN, CLAIMING ANY LEGAL OR EQUITABLE RIGHT, TITLE, ESTATE, LIEN, OR INTEREST IN THE PROPERTY DESCRIBED IN THE COMPLAINT ADVERSE TO PLAINTIFF’S TITLE, OR ANY CLOUD UPON PLAINTIFF’S TITLE THERETO.
ORDER OF PUBLICATION
THIS MATTER is before the Court on the Plaintiffs Motion Seeking Order of Publication. This is an action wherein Plaintiff seeks to quiet title to a property located at Tax Map 51 (A) Parcel 58, a 20.904-acre parcel of undeveloped land in Fluvanna County (the “Property”).
Delete the paragraph > FY 2027-2031 Capital Improvement Plan. Keep all the rest of the public notice - for issue Feb. 12, 2026. This update should shrink the public notice down to a 1/8? (maybe) Edee
This ad is already an 1/8 Horiz
It appearing to the Court that the Complaint in this action (i) states that there are or may be persons, whose names are unknown, interested in the subject to be divided or disposed of; (ii) briefly describes the nature of such interest; and (iii) makes such persons defendants by the general description of”parties unknown,” and for good cause shown and in accordance with Va. Code §§ 8.01-316 and 8.01-317, it is hereby
ORDERED that any parties unknown claiming an interest in the Property must make a written appearance within fifty (50) days of this Order if he or she wishes to assert or protect any interest he may have in this matter, and it is furthermore
BOS Public Hearing: Kevin & Ashley Wright-request to rezone
ORDERED that the Clerk shall cause copies of this Order of Publication to be posted, mailed, and transmitted to the Fluvanna Review within twenty (20) days after the entry of this Order of Publication ursuant to Va. Code § 8.01-317, and it is furthermore
Legal 1/8 page Horiz 5 “ x 2.75”
ORDERED that the above paragraphs be published once a week for four successive weeks in the Fluvanna Review, and it is furthermore
ORDERED that the Clerk shall file a certificate in the papers of this case that the requirements of Va. Code§ 8.01-317 have been complied with.
The Clerk of this Court shall post this Order at the front door of the courthouse pursuant to Va. Code § 8.01-317.
I ASKED FOR THIS:
All text copied from WD 2/12, 2026 Fluvanna Review Proof#3
Charlottesville, VA 22902 P:
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PUBLIC NOTICES
ORDER OF PUBLICATION
COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA
FLUVANNA COUNTY CIRCUIT COURT
P.O. Box 550, Palmyra, VA, 22963
Case No. 26CL43
Michelle L. Palmer v. Wesley D. Walker
The object of this suit is to:
Obtain a No-Fault divorce
It is ORDERED that Wesley D. Walker appear at the above-named court and protect his/her interests on or before March 26, 2026 at 9:00 AM.
1/14/2026
DATED David M. Barredo, Judge
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ABC LICENSE NOTICE
“CLAIMING” in the go. Thanks.
Text: centered in ad
Trading as : Hometown Grill
Location: 63 Market Street, Palmyra, Virginia 22963Fluvanna
The above establishment is applying to the VIRGINIA ALCOHOLIC (ABC)
