Amherst County Board approves $49K IT strategic plan with Virtual IT Inc

The Amherst County Board of Supervisors convened on March 4, 2025, to discuss several key issues, including the approval of an IT strategic plan and ongoing concerns regarding the Union Hill solar farm.

One of the primary topics was the approval of a contract with Virtual IT Inc. to develop an IT strategic plan for the county. The board allocated $49,990 for this project, which is expected to take approximately five months. The plan will assess the county's IT infrastructure needs, disaster recovery, and overall departmental direction. The board unanimously approved the motion to execute the contract, emphasizing the importance of enhancing the county's technological capabilities.

Another significant discussion revolved around the Union Hill solar farm, which has faced scrutiny from neighboring property owners. David Tyree, an adjacent landowner, expressed concerns about the visibility of the solar panels from his property and the adequacy of the vegetative buffer intended to shield his view. The board acknowledged the challenges posed by the elevation of the solar panels and the time required for the newly planted trees to mature. While the county has mandated additional tree plantings to enhance the buffer, Tyree remains dissatisfied, citing potential impacts on his property value and ongoing negotiations with Appalachian Power Company (AEP) regarding compensation for damages.

The board reiterated that it has fulfilled its obligations regarding the solar farm's approval and compliance with regulations. However, discussions highlighted the need for clearer communication and expectations regarding the effectiveness of the vegetative buffer. The board concluded that any further negotiations regarding compensation would need to occur between Tyree and AEP, as the county's role in the matter is limited.

In addition to these discussions, the board also addressed updates from the Emergency Services Council, which has been working on standard operating guidelines for fire and EMS services. The council aims to finalize these guidelines promptly to ensure safety and accountability within the emergency response framework.

Overall, the meeting underscored the board's commitment to improving county services through strategic planning while navigating community concerns related to development projects.