Henrico County · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Henrico County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Affordable homes through Maggie Walker Community Land Trust
A $500,000 county grant would help the land trust buy 20 Arcadia homes and sell them to buyers earning up to 115% of area median income.
Opioid abatement funding
The Board was scheduled to consider joining combined settlements of opioid-related claims with six wholesale drug distributors, adding to settlement funds available to the county.
Setback and lot-area variances countywide
Applicants sought variances to build a screened porch and two carports that don't meet standard setback distances. Approval would let construction proceed closer to lot lines than the zoning ordinance normally allows.
Home-based businesses and uses in residential districts
Several neighbors sought permission to run small home-based activities — a hosted short-term rental and two in-home daycares — in single-family neighborhoods. How the board rules shapes what residents can do on their own property.
Short-term rental permits in residential districts
A homeowner on Omega Road asked to rent her dwelling as a short-term rental, a use that requires a conditional use permit under county code.
Backyard hens in Winterberry
A resident of Keelwood Court asked to keep two hens in the rear yard of an R-3C zoned home, a use requiring a conditional use permit.
Accessory dwelling units in Tuckahoe and Brookland
Three separate cases asked to create small second dwellings — a garage conversion, a pool house conversion, and a proposed detached unit. ADUs are a growing tool for housing aging parents or adding rental capacity, and all three sat in single-family districts.
Surveillance Technology
Richmond is dropping its controversial Flock surveillance cameras once the current contract expires, though the incoming mayor is already eyeing alternative tech replacements. If you care about privacy versus public safety on city streets, you'll want to watch what kind of tracking tools they bring in next.
AED program update
The county's automated external defibrillator program was set for an update — relevant to sudden cardiac emergency response in public spaces.
Road project condemnation resolutions
The county couldn't strike a deal with the owner of 3800 Mechanicsville Turnpike, so it moved to condemn the land needed for new sidewalks. Property owners get paid fair market value, but it's a forced sale.
Community Forum
Henrico County is hosting a one-stop community forum where residents can learn about the local budget, register to vote, and check out senior resources. It’s an easy, all-in-one spot to get your civic questions answered and plug into what's happening locally.
Constituent Meeting
Henrico County's Fairfield District is hosting an upcoming community meeting on October 15. It's a quick way to learn about older adult resources, register to vote, and figure out where your tax dollars actually go.