Greene County News & Events | | Greene County Board of Supervisors Chairman Steve Catalano discusses the recent grant for water main improvements in western Greene County and the Town of Stanardsville. | | Additional grant funds received | | |
Greene County was noticed of additional grant funds received for water infrastructure improvements in late February. Congressman Eugene Vindman, 7th District, worked with County leaders to secure $1,092,000.00 to improve the water mains leading into the Town of Stanardsville and western Greene County.
"The Board of Supervisors and Citizens appreciate the efforts of the Congressman in securing this funding for Greene County," said Chairman Steve Catalano. "The funds will allow us to continue to improve the water infrastructure in the County."
"This investment is a significant step forward in strengthening Greene County’s core infrastructure," said County Administrator Cathy Schafrik. "The project will improve service reliability for residents, businesses, schools, and County operations. We are grateful for this support and look forward to delivering long awaited improvements!"
This grant funding is in addition to the $12 million received in December for two phases of the reservoir project.
| | Above, County Administrator Cathy Schafrik speaks about the funding on Thursday, February 26, 2026. Below, Greene County is awarded a "big check" for $1,092,000.00 toward water main improvements in western Greene County and the Town of Stanardsville. | | At-Large Supervisor Appointed | | Marie Durrer, who served eight years as the Midway District Supervisor, was appointed by the Board of Supervisors at its February 24, 2026, meeting to serve as the interim At-Large Supervisor until a Special Election can be held on November 3, 2026. The seat was vacated by Francis McGuigan in January. | | Government Day in Richmond | | Members from the Greene County and Town of Stanardsville government participated in the Virginia Association of Counties' Local Government Day at the Virginia General Assembly on February 5, 2026. With the assistance from Senator Bryce Reeves and former Delegate Nick Freitas, Greene County has received a $12 million grant for two phases of the reservoir project in Fiscal Year 2026. The County received $3 million in Fiscal Year 2025 from the General Assembly toward the project, as well. Midway Supervisor Matthew Hartung, County Administrator Cathy Schafrik, and Town Mayor Michael Payne participated, shown below with Senator Bryce Reeves. | | Beginning with this newsletter, we'll feature a Frequently Asked Question from the Citizens. Please send questions you'd like to see highlighted in the newsletter to newsletter@gcva.us. | | |
The Greene County Board of Supervisors is seeking individuals interested in improving the quality of life in Greene County to participate as a member of a County board, commission, or committee. Vacancies are advertised at various times throughout the year, and opportunities are available now to serve on various citizen member organizations.
Current Opportunities
- Board of Equalization (3)
- Board of Zoning Appeals - Town of Stanardsville
- Ruckersville Advisory Committee
- Tourism Council (1)
- Social Services Board (1)
- Agricultural and Forestal District Advisory Committee (2)
- Economic Development Authority (1)
The Board of Supervisors invites citizens interested in making a difference through public service to submit an appointment profile (PDF) which can be found on the Administration page under helpful documents. Completed forms should be submitted to the County Administrator’s Office in person or to tbeigie@gcva.us via email. For information about boards, view the Boards and Commissions website Open until filled. Call 434-985-5201 with any questions.
| | DMV set for June in Greene | | The next mobile DMV is coming to Greene County on June 1, 2026. The Administration Building is at 40 Celt Road in Stanardsville. Greene County does not have any control over the DMV activities, so if you have questions regarding services, please go to the DMV website or call them directly. | | March government meetings | |
Public Safety
After the Storm Passes
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Winter snowstorm. Ice storm. Windstorm. Severe thunderstorm. Severe lightning storm. Tornado. These severe weather conditions bring dangers and can cause harm and even death. All of these have one thing in common – they will pass and weather will return to normal. But once the severe weather passes the danger STILL REMAINS.
After the storm passes dangers are present that can cause great personal injury and harm. Winter storms, like the most recent local event, present significant challenges after the storm passes. Consider the challenges presented by this event.
- Cold-weather conditions existed for an extended period making roads slick with the potential for motor vehicle crashes.
- Sidewalks, parking lots, entry steps, and walking paths were iced over and presented slip and fall hazards. Simply walking from your car to the house or apartment may have been a challenge.
- The heavy snow and ice were difficult to remove from vehicles and buildings which presented health and wellness concerns.
- Power outages stress individuals and families and disrupt normal activities.
- Other weather events present other similar concerns.
- The use of chain saws to remove downed trees present a safety issue.
- Live power lines are a danger.
- Flood waters may include hazards of all kinds – ice chunks, trees, dead animals, gasoline, propane tanks, and other unknown obstacles.
The National Weather Service makes the following statement about safety after the storm. “Knowing what to do in the wake of a severe storm or disaster may be just as important to you and your family as taking proper actions ahead of the storm. A study of injuries after a tornado in Marion, Illinois, showed that 50 percent of the tornado-related injuries were suffered during rescue attempts, cleanup, and other post-tornado activities. Nearly a third of the injuries resulted from stepping on nails. Any storm that damages power lines, gas lines, or electrical systems, puts you at risk due to fire, electrocution, or explosion.”
See the National Weather Service site at https://www.weather.gov/ffc/afterstorm.
On March 10, 2026, at 9:45 a.m. there is a Statewide Tornado Drill being conducted. Tornadoes, which have occurred in all 50 States, present dangers after the storm passes. Power outages, downed trees, downed live power lines, structural damage, and personal injury all present a danger after the storm passes.
Additional details on the Statewide Tornado Drill can be found at https://www.vaemergency.gov/2026-statewide-tornado-drill.
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The key question is what should you do to assess the risk and danger after the storm passes?
First, listen to local officials as they advise on activity. There is a reason schools close, government offices and businesses modify working hours, and officials advise the public against travel.
Second, conduct a personal risk assessment for your immediate property, home, and the surrounding area. Consider your personal health and wellbeing and that of your family. Ask key questions as you make the assessment.
- What are the weather conditions: temperature, wind chill factor, precipitation?
- What is the walking and driving conditions outside?
- Do I have the proper clothing and footwear to deal with the conditions?
- Do I have the proper tools to shovel snow, remove ice, repair structural damage, and can I do it safely?
- What are the local authorities saying about traveling and road conditions?
- Is it critical to go outside at this time or can I delay the activity until conditions improve?
- Is there someone I can call for help if the need is critical?
The answer to these questions will tell you how “risky” it is to move from your safe location.
Third, weigh the factors and evaluate your physical capability, mental strength, and available resources to deal with the conditions you are presented with from the questions above. If you are not prepared to accept the risks, wait until later to undertake the activity. These same questions and answers are present when deciding whether to evacuate from your home or shelter-in-place.
Fourth, notify a family member or neighbor if you decide to undertake an activity and believe the risk is acceptable. Continue to assess the situation in real time and maintain personal situational awareness to adjust your decision making as conditions change.
Summary
Whatever the major weather event is, once a storm passes, dangers are present and safety precautions are important. Just as an emergency pre-plan is critical for each household, an after-the-storm plan is also critical. Conduct a risk and hazard assessment, listen to local officials, maintain situational awareness, evaluate your abilities and resources before making decisions about your movement outside.
Participate in the March 10 Statewide Tornado Drill and discuss with your family emergency pre-planning as well as safety issues after the storm passes.
The County provides information on the website dealing with emergency notifications, preparedness, and how to make an emergency plan. Greene County has a system for citizens to receive alerts for events occurring in their neighborhoods. Go to www.greenecountyva.gov/343/Alerts-Notifications and register to receive notifications. Each citizen can configure their notifications and select how, and for what situations to receive alerts.
Greene County Virginia CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) is an option for further information. CERT’s website is www.GreeneCERTVa.org. The Facebook page is: GreeneCountyVirginiaCERT. You can also email CERT at: Info@greenecertva.org. CERT is a 501 (c) (3) Organization and exists to help prepare the community for disasters and emergencies.
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Sheriff's Office
Major Lane Golf Tournament
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We are beginning our process for the 2026 Major Russell Lane Memorial Golf Tournament to benefit the children of Greene County, with all proceeds from the tournament going to our annual "Shop With a Cop."
The attached flyer and registration sheet describe the different sponsorships available. All sponsorships include a sign to be displayed at the tournament. If you are interested in becoming a sponsor, please let us know.
If you have any questions, please contact Debbie Bunch at 434-985-2222 or 434-939-8572.
| | Sign up for alerts from Greene | |
Community Development
Planning & Zoning Number Change
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Commissioner of Revenue
Elderly and Disabled Tax Relief
| | Our Board of Supervisors have revised County Code for Exemptions for Elderly and Disabled increasing the total combined gross household income limit to a maximum of $35,000. New and existing applicants must file their paperwork after January 2 but before April 1, 2026. Please contact the Commissioner's Office at (434) 985-5211 with any questions. | |
Voter Registration
Three elections set in 2026
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There is a Special Election for a change to the Constitution of Virginia to be held on April 21, 2026. A sample ballot is available at the Registrar's office or online at: https://greenecountyva.gov/367/Sample-Ballots
Early Voting begins at the Annex at 32 Stanard Street on Friday, March 6, 2026. Hours for voting are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Also open on Saturdays, April 11 and April 18.
The Primary has been moved from June 16, 2026, to August 4, 2026. Most likely it will be a dual primary, so a voter can vote in either the Democratic Primary or the Republican Primary. Possible seats are U.S. Senator and U.S Representative. Early Voting will begin on Thursday, June 18, 2026.
On November 3, 2026, we will have a General and Special Election. The winners of the August primaries will be on the ballot (or if there was only one candidate for a seat, he or she will have his or her name automatically placed on the ballot.) The At-Large Board of Supervisor's seat will be on the ballot for the term running through December 31, 2027. (Marie Durrer has secured the position as the Interim At-Large Member.) There will also be three constitutional amendments on the ballot. And, the Town of Stanardsville will have the position of Mayor and four council members on their ballot.
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Economic Development & Tourism
Earth Day Celebration
| | Receive weekly Greene events emails | | |
Sign up to receive the weekly Greene community events email. This is a great way to learn about community, church, business and other events happening in Greene for families, adults, and youth. Please encourage your friends and neighbors to sign up to receive this once-a-week listing of all the exciting events in our community. In addition, make sure your organization's events are listed with the second link below.
Sign up to receive the weekly email: http://eepurl.com/iVaZTE
List your organization's events: https://greenecalendar.com/
Unsubscribe at any time. All emails will be for this sole purpose.
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Parks & Recreation
New Electric Gate
| | Greene County received a grant for $750,000.00 to improve the security at the Greene County Community Park in 2025. This gate will electronically unlock and lock at programmable times, adding a layer of security at the entrance to the park. The gate will still open to allow anyone inside the park the ability to leave after the official "closure" time for the park (dusk). This grant required no matching funds from the County and includes the following other projects: a secondary paved parking lot, lighting at the parking lot, paving the primary parking lot, HVAC at the concession stand, construction of the public water line to the park, security cameras, and an accessible walkway to the fields. The projects are ongoing. | |
Virginia Cooperative Extension
Register for summer camp!
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Culpeper Soil & Water Conservation District
Tree Seedling Sale Returns
| | Culpeper Soil & Water Conservation District is pleased to announced its 2026 Tree Seedling Sale! Bundles of Red-osier dogwood, Blackgum, Eastern redbud, Hazelnut, Serviceberry, Silky dogwood and Silky willow are available. Click here for a flyer or contact Steph DeNicola at stephanied@culpeperswcd.org. Pay now to secure your order and pick up in March! While supplies last. The Greene pick up will be Monday March 23 at Greene Extension office from 5-7 p.m. | | Conservation Program Updates | |
Thomas Jefferson Planning District Commission
Septic System Funds Available
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The TJPDC has funding available through March 31, 2026, to fully support low income homeowners (80% AMI or below) with septic maintenance, repair, replacements, and connection to public sewer, to improve local water quality and public health outcomes. Did you know it is recommended to have your septic system pumped out every 3 to 5 years? If you live in Albemarle, Fluvanna, Greene, Louisa, or Nelson County and meet the housing income guidelines, the Septic Assistance Program can fully fund your septic system maintenance, repairs, and replacement projects! Visit TJPDC.org/septic to locate your local Housing Foundation to confirm your eligibility and start your application today.
Keep your septic system running smoothly and your environment clean. Apply today!
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Greene Care Clinic
Mobile Mammography Open to All
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Greene County Historical Society
Historic Stanardsville Walking Tour
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Feeding Greene
Greene School Break Boxes
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HAVE YOU HEARD ABOUT FEEDING GREENE’S SCHOOL BREAK BOXES?
As we reflect on 2025, one thing is clear: hunger remains a critical challenge in our community, but together, we are making a difference. Amid rising food costs and a steady increase in demand (48 new families/month in 2024 and 2025), Feeding Greene distributed 1,241,480 pounds of groceries through 21,726 visits to our pantry. 30% represent families with children age 18 & under.
A notable shift in programming in 2025 was the addition of SCHOOL BREAK BOXES. This is a program made possible through BRAFB and is now a part of our Backpack Program. We provide 1 Box/10 meals/per child/per week during those times that school is out for scheduled holidays. This covers Spring Break, Summer Break, Thanksgiving, and Winter Break. These boxes are available to ALL FAMILIES with children age 18 and under. THERE ARE NO INCOME REQUIREMENTS. We only track household size and age breakdown-no names required. This has proven to be a very welcome and much appreciated resource in our community.
While uncertainties in our world remain, our mission stays the same: ensuring that no one goes to bed hungry in our community. With one in nine Virginians facing hunger, our work is far from over.
Join us in our mission by helping to get word out about our SCHOOL BREAK BOXES and exploring the many other ways you can support Feeding Greene by visiting our website at www.feedinggreeneinc.org.
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Habitat for Humanity
Open Office Hours
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Congressman Eugene Vindman
Art Contest for 7th District
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- Are you an aspiring artist?
- Do you live in VA-07?
- Are you a current high school student?
If the answer to all of these questions is yes, the 2026 Congressional Art Competition is for you! Submit your artwork by April 17 for a chance to have it displayed in the U.S. Capitol for one year. To register or learn more, you can visit vindman.house.gov/services/art-competition/.
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Virginia Department of Forestry
Camp Woods & Wildlife
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CHARLOTTESVILLE – Applications are now open for the 78th Annual Camp Woods & Wildlife, to be held June 15-19 at the Holiday Lake 4-H Educational Center near Appomattox. Hosted by the Virginia Department of Forestry (DOF), the camp offers an action-packed week of forestry education for approximately 60 youth campers. Deadline to apply: April 15.
Camp Woods & Wildlife is an immersive experience made possible through the support and cooperation from partner agencies, organizations and businesses. Led by natural resource professionals, classes cover a wide variety of topics including wildlife biology, tree identification, forest ecology, arboriculture, emergency response and environmental protection.
When campers aren’t in the woods, they can enjoy the pool, archery range, volleyball court and the lake, all available for fun and recreation. The camp concludes with the camper favorite “lumberjack contest,” which consists of competitive crosscut, bow sawing and log toss events.
Applicants must be Virginia residents, 13-16 years old, in good academic standing with an interest in natural resources, and who haven’t attended this camp before. Please note: A non-relative adult, familiar with the student’s interests, must complete the nominator section. The application deadline is April 15. Visit the Camp Woods & Wildlife page on the DOF website to learn more.
“Thanks to generous financial support provided by our partners, campers pay only $95 to attend our week-long residential camp,” said Conservation Education Coordinator and Camp Coordinator Ellen Powell. “Our natural classroom is Appomattox-Buckingham State Forest, Virginia’s largest state forest, offering the perfect setting for learning all about Virginia’s flora and fauna. Our goal is to instill a greater appreciation for our natural resources and inspire tomorrow’s natural resource experts.”
“Getting to know more about forestry has been a lot of fun. The ‘life of an arborist’ class was my favorite so far; seeing how they effortlessly climb trees and cut limbs was so impressive. I also really enjoyed learning more about the trees in Virginia’s forests. One of the foresters showed us some trees, like sourwood, have leaves that can be chewed, and I was really surprised with how pleasant it tasted! My time here definitely has me more interested in natural resource careers.” – 2025 camper
“Camp Woods and Wildlife is the perfect chance for teens to try a wide variety of natural resource disciplines. We have counselors and teachers from many agencies and backgrounds, so campers try a little bit of everything with a mix of science, exploring, and good ole’ summer camp fun like swimming and kayaking. A camper favorite this year was the wildlife biology classes. Our friends at the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources showed off their trapping and tracking equipment and even let the kids try finding a radio collar, which they just loved.” – 2025 counselor
Campers engage a prescribed burn under supervision from DOF wildland firefighters. See more photos from last year’s Camp Woods & Wildlife on DOF’s Flickr.
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Remote Area Medical Volunteer Corps
Free clinic in April in Fishersville
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SNP Trust
Webinar about SNP
| | March 26th at 6:30 pm - At Home in Shenandoah: The Restoration of Boulder Cabin, Join Shenandoah National Park Exhibit Specialist, Alex Lochart, and Katherine Wonson of Old School Heritage Solutions, as they walk us through the historical preservation of Boulder Cabin. Register Here. | | |
County of Greene, Virginia | | | | | |
