Regional councils call for greater autonomy in Go Virginia grant approval process

Regional councils in Virginia are advocating for greater autonomy in the grant approval process during the recent GO Virginia Regional Council Committee Meeting held on November 11, 2024. Council members expressed a strong desire for more flexibility, particularly regarding the allocation of per capita funding, which they believe would enhance their ability to make impactful decisions tailored to their regions' needs.

The discussions highlighted a recurring theme: the need for regional councils to have more authority over how funds are spent. Council members noted that many business leaders, who often make significant financial decisions in their own companies, may be less inclined to participate in council meetings if they feel their input lacks influence. This sentiment underscores the importance of empowering councils to align funding decisions with their growth and diversification plans, which have already received state approval.

Concerns were also raised about the administrative grant structure, particularly the limitations of the 8% overhead allocation. Currently, this allocation can only be used for direct project-related costs, which restricts support organizations from covering broader operational expenses. Council members emphasized the need for a more flexible approach to administrative funding to better support regional initiatives.

Another significant topic was the importance of enhancing communication between the state board and regional councils. As GO Virginia matures as an organization, improving engagement and collaboration is seen as essential for fostering effective partnerships and ensuring that regional voices are heard.

Recruitment and succession planning emerged as critical issues, with many councils facing turnover and the loss of experienced members. Strategies to retain knowledge and expertise, such as creating ex officio roles for former leaders, were discussed as potential solutions to mitigate the impact of this turnover.

Overall, the meeting underscored a collective push for increased regional authority, improved funding flexibility, and better communication, all aimed at strengthening the effectiveness of GO Virginia's initiatives. As these discussions progress, the implications for regional economic development and community engagement are expected to be significant, paving the way for more responsive and impactful governance.