On Dec. 27, 2011, the Wythe County Board of Supervisors met at the County Administration Building for its bimonthly meeting at 9 a.m. The Board discussed items including a reduced connection fee extension, the Line of Duty Act and a request for purchase of County property.

In reports from the Water Committee, Board members discussed a time extension for the reduced water connection fee to customers on Route 619 from the intersection of Rickey Road to Route 94. According to the presentation, there had been  some customer confusion regarding the connection process and fees.

Cellell Dalton, County Administrator, suggested the Board grant the extension, implement the recommended notification changes and  use the experience as a lesson learned. The revised procedures approved by the water committee with provide  a clear understanding of the process, fees and regulations.

The Board approved a thirty (30) day  extension , giving the customers until January 27 to connect at the reduced rate. Dalton noted only a handful of customers would be involved in the extension.

The Budget Committee requested the Board amend and appropriate $9,240 for the Line of Duty Act coverage. The Line of Duty Act provides benefits to the Sheriff or Deputy Sheriff  whose death or disability occurs as a result of the performance of  their duties. The officer’s family will receive a $100,000 lump sum payment from the County along with his family’s health care premiums being paid by the County.

Noted at the meeting was that by going through VACORP, the contribution amount was considerably lower than if the Board had gone through the Virginia Retirement System.

By going through VACORP, Wythe County will save nearly $3,000 in 2012 and just over $10,000 in 2013. In addition, the savings in both 2014 and 2015 will come to about $20,000 each year.

Bucky Sharitz, Board chairman, reported he received a letter from the Town of Wytheville regarding the purchase of property including and surrounding the Wythe County Jail. The letter requested the Board make a decision soon to allow the Town to make the purchase.

The Board  tabled the issue until January. It did suggest, however, a letter being sent to the Town to acknowledge the request.