The Accomack County Board of Supervisors meeting on July 16, 2025, addressed a significant property dispute stemming from a tax auction held on December 17, 2024. The primary focus was on a proposal by a local resident, Mr. Pettit, who sought a refund of $25,000 after a house he intended to purchase was destroyed by fire shortly after the auction.

Mr. Pettit had signed a document agreeing to buy a property located at 30448 Greta Road, accepting it in its present condition. However, just weeks after the auction, the house burned down, prompting Mr. Pettit to request his deposit back, as he believed he was not purchasing a burned-down property. He reached out to the county's office twice but received no response.

In response, attorney Anita Johnson, representing another party involved in the property, explained that the risk of loss was transferred to the purchaser at the time of the auction. She noted that the auction participants were advised to obtain hazard insurance. Johnson also mentioned that there is an ongoing petition in circuit court regarding the property, complicating the situation further.

The discussion highlighted the complexities of property transactions at tax auctions, particularly when unforeseen events like fires occur. The board's decision on Mr. Pettit's request for a refund remains pending as the legal proceedings continue. This case underscores the importance of understanding the risks involved in purchasing properties at auction and the potential implications of such transactions.