Chesterfield County, Virginia's Weekly e-Newsletter
Tuesday, April 11, 2023
Stay Connected with Chesterfield!
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stay up to date on all things Chesterfield!
Come Out to Earth Day Festival Saturday
and 'Give the Earth a Helping Hand'
Come out to Chesterfield's Earth Day Festival this Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Chesterfield County Fairgrounds and see our Waste and Resource Recovery team's station.

The team's theme for Earth Day this year is “give the Earth a helping hand”, meaning we all can do our part to Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle.

By taking this initiative, we limit the number of materials and energy needed to produce new items and prevent waste from entering our landfills. This year, we are giving kids and adults the opportunity to paint their handprints onto a recycling container as a promise to do their part to protect the environment.

The inaugural Earth Day Festival will also include entertainment, food trucks and outdoor activities, as well as demonstrations from Parks and Recreation and Cooperative Extension. Representatives of the vendors that perform recycling and trash collection in Chesterfield also will be on site with trucks and other equipment.
 
C-Fit Community will be giving away herb and vegetable plants while supplies last.
 
For more information about the Earth Day Festival, email the Citizen Information and Resources Department at cir@chesterfield.gov or call 804-796-7100.  
Bring Plants to Free Exchange Event
Saturday at Stonebridge Recreation Center
Join us at Stonebridge Recreation Center this Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. for a free spring plant exchange.

Master Gardener Lela Martin will give a brief demonstration/presentation on container gardens. The plant exchange will take place after the presentation.

Bring three of your favorite plants. Each plant should be potted and have a plant tag that includes the following information: Common Name or Botanical Name, Bloom Time, Light Requirements, Size, Soil Requirements and Picture in Bloom.

Stonebridge Recreation Center is located at 230 Karl Linn Drive. Please register in advance at www.chesterfield.gov/parks. For more information, call (804) 768-7885.
Board of Supervisors Adopts FY24 Budget
The Chesterfield Board of Supervisors voted last week to adopt the county's fiscal year 2024 operating budget and FY24-28 capital improvement program.

The $1.94 billion budget increases local funding for schools by $20 million year-over-year, an all-time high in the county. It accommodates a 7% pay raise for existing teachers and an increase in starting pay to $52,421.

Likewise, the budget increases starting salaries for public safety by 10% and provides a promised 2.25% step increase to current employees. Existing sworn personnel will receive an additional 10% pay raise effective Jan. 1, 2024.

Learn more about the adopted budget in the Chesterfield On Point blog by visiting https://tinyurl.com/mvj4s452.
Sign Up for Community Conversations with
Dale District Supervisor Jim Holland
Join us at either one of the Dale District Community Conversations this month with Supervisor Jim Holland.

There will be a meeting next Monday, April 17 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in the Meadowdale Library Large Meeting Room and on Monday, April 24 from 2 to 3:30 p.m. in the County Administration Building Learning and Performance Center Classrooms A + B.

Citizens will have the opportunity to ask questions, share thoughts about topics or issues in the community, and discuss solutions.

The meetings, which will be similar to those hosted by other Board of Supervisors members, will be limited to 30 participants each to provide an environment conducive to in-depth conversations.

To register, visit https://bit.ly/3M2LEh7.
Watch This Week In Chesterfield
Every Monday, This Week in Chesterfield points residents to fun, exciting and interesting things going on around their community. Each weekly video segment can be found on the Chesterfield County YouTube channel.
Senior Volunteer Hall of Fame
Nomination Deadline is This Friday
Nominations for Chesterfield's Senior Volunteer Hall of Fame close at midnight this Friday, April 14. Nomination forms can be submitted at https://tinyurl.com/a26yzaz2.
 
This program recognizes Chesterfield seniors who have shown outstanding volunteerism since turning the age of 60. To be eligible, nominees must reside in Chesterfield, but the service they provide can be performed outside the county.

Nominators can be neighbors, friends, churches, senior groups, non-profit service agencies, organizations and businesses. Anyone who can verify the nominee’s qualifications for recognition may nominate. The nominator is responsible for providing complete and accurate information regarding the individual’s service.

All nominees will be celebrated at an in-person event on June 6 from 3 to 5 p.m. at the Career and Technical Center on Hull Street Rd. 
Volunteers Needed for Self-Guided Trash
Pickups During Week of April 15-22
Want to contribute to your community in a meaningful way this Earth Day?

Chesterfield is inviting volunteers to participate in self-guided trash cleanups at county parks during the week of April 15 to April 22. The cleanups can be done at a time and location of your choice.

You can use your own supplies or the county’s Environmental Engineering Department can provide trash grabbers and bags. After filling trash bags, simply leave them near a trash can at your chosen park and staff will collect them.

To sign up or for more information, email Ashley Tucker at tuckeran@chesterfield.gov or call 804-768-7435.
Comment on Ridgedale Special Focus Area
During Community Meeting Next Wednesday
Join Chesterfield's Planning Department for an in-person community meeting next Wednesday, April 19, from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. at J.G. Hening Elementary School to share concepts and receive public comment on the Ridgedale Special Focus Area.

In 2022, Chesterfield initiated a Special Focus Area (SFA) study for the Ridgedale area, a distinct gateway to the county near the intersection of Route 10 and Chippenham Parkway that includes the currently vacant Chippenham Crossing shopping center.

Part of this SFA process includes opportunities for the county to engage with residents and community stakeholders regarding the future vision for the area. During this time, staff are conducting background research and drafting a strategic plan for the area.

Learn more about the Ridgedale Special Focus Area by visiting https://bit.ly/3JbRFGl.
Catch Up on Blog Posts from
In a new article posted to the Chesterfield On Point blog, you can learn about the county's plan to provide a 5% rebate on all first-half 2023 real estate tax bills due in early June.

Mindful of the ongoing impact inflation and rising property assessments are having on household finances, the Chesterfield Board of Supervisors voted last week to amend county code to permit refunds of surplus real estate tax revenue.

The action applies to both this year and future years at the board’s discretion. 

While you're visiting the Chesterfield On Point website, take a few moments to subscribe (it's free!) so you receive alerts every time a new post is published.
Watch and Listen to the Latest Episodes
Chesterfield Behind the Mic is an audio and video podcast focusing on the people, stories and happenings of #Cfield. You can watch and listen to all of the episodes at http://www.Chesterfield.gov/Podcast.

On the latest episode of Chesterfield Behind the Mic, which drops tomorrow, we talk to Chris Winslow of the Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors about a variety of topics -- including the major economic development projects in the pipeline, the way the county has worked with schools, the success of public safety, the continued focus on improving transportation, and what things are on the horizon for Chesterfield and the Clover Hill District. 
Adoptable Pet Spotlight
Hey there! My name is Taz!

I am a 1-year-old neutered male Shepherd mix and I weigh about 75lbs. I am pretty energetic and could use some leash training; I'm just so excited to get where I'm going, I tend to pull on the leash.

I did really well while meeting several dogs at the animal shelter, but I am pretty dominant. All of the dogs that I met were okay with this, but I'd probably do best with submissive or care-free dog friends.

I'm also really good at jumping! I almost made it over the half door inside of the shelter, but the people told me not to do that. Because of this talent, I'll either need a tall fence or leashed outside time. The shelter staff think I might have German Shepherd and/or Malinois in me, so it would be a good idea to give me jobs or toys that will keep me busy.

If you are interested in meeting this pet, please contact Chesterfield County Animal Services at 804-748-1683, option "2," to schedule an appointment. Office staff are available by phone 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday, and 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays. Our shelter is located at 9300 Public Works Road.
Provide Feedback on Village of Midlothian
Corridor Improvement Study
The Chesterfield Department of Transportation is seeking input from citizens on the Route 60, Village of Midlothian Corridor Improvement Study, which identifies improvements consistent with the vision and goals of the Midlothian Special Area Plan adopted in 2019.

The county is looking for feedback from anyone who lives, works, plays, or receives services along the Route 60 corridor. Feedback about the proposed improvements can be given on the project website through Friday, April 28.

The feedback received will help the county determine how to meet transportation needs in that area. To learn more, visit https://bit.ly/42OLAYd.
Learn About Opportunities to Comment
on Draft of New Zoning Ordinance
In fall 2019, Chesterfield issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) seeking the services of qualified professionals to assist the county in a comprehensive rewrite of its Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 19.1 of the Chesterfield County Code. The Zoning Ordinance serves as the primary tool to implement the Comprehensive Plan.

While the Comprehensive Plan itself has changed over time to reflect the growth and development vision for county, much of the core content of the current Zoning Ordinance remains unchanged since the 1970s. A comprehensive rewrite is under way to fully implement the future vision.

Hear from county staff about the opportunity to review and comment on draft residential and agricultural districts by clicking on the video above or by visiting https://tinyurl.com/msr9r9ms.
Register by April 23 for Painting in the Park
at Henricus Historical Park
Come out to Henricus Historical Park on Saturday, April 29 for a lovely spring day of painting en plein air (the French term for painting outdoors).

Participants will be capturing the likeness of our iconic 17th century church while painting in the Henricus Fort. There will be two different sessions to choose from and all supplies will be provided, as well as non-alcoholic beverages and light snacks.

Please come dressed in painting clothes (acrylic paint will permanently stain). Also be aware that you will be outdoors the entire time, so come prepared for the weather (sunscreen, hat, bug repellent, etc.).

Session 1 will take place from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., with Session 2 running from 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.

The event is available to ages 16-and-over and costs $30 per person. Register and find more information at https://tinyurl.com/t2t4rnpm. The deadline to sign up is Sunday, April 23.
'Curves Lines Color' Art Gallery Exhibit
Opens April 16 at Perkinson Center
Join Perkinson Center for the Arts and Education next Sunday, April 16 for the grand opening of the "Curves Lines Color" art gallery exhibit featuring various works by Dave Henderson.

The event will take place at the Baxter and Elaine Perkinson Jr. Art Gallery from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., with live music, light food and a cash bar. RSVP at https://tinyurl.com/yhp8j2ja. The exhibit will be available through June 16.
Be Mindful of Local Ordinance Requirements
for Keeping Chickens in Residential Areas
Did you know a maximum of six chicken hens may be kept on a residentially zoned property with restrictions?

Chickens are always to be housed in a coop with an attached outside run and must have tops that are securely enclosed with wire mesh or similar material. Chickens running loose inside someone’s fence is not permitted. The chicken coop and run must meet a setback of 25 feet from property lines. Other fowl such as ducks, geese, swans, etc. are prohibited.

It is not permitted to have stock farm animals on residentially zoned property without a conditional use permit and roosters are prohibited in residentially zoned areas.
Don't Be an Accidental Drug Dealer! Properly Store and Dispose of Prescription Medications
Prescription drug abuse is a national epidemic. This spring, Chesterfield is once again promoting the proper disposal and storage of expired or unused medications through its “Don’t Be An Accidental Drug Dealer” campaign. As part of this campaign, free medication disposal pouches and locking bags are available for pick up at various locations throughout the county (while supplies last). 
 
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 61 percent of people ages 12 and older who misuse prescription pain relievers get them from a friend or family member. That’s why it’s so important to dispose of expired or unused medications properly and keep other medications secure while they are being used.
 
One pouch can safely dispose of up to 45 pill tablets, six ounces of liquid or six patches. Once the medications are mixed with a small amount of water in the bag, the chemical compounds in the medications are deactivated. The biodegradable bag can then be safely disposed of in the trash.

For a list of locations where you can pick up medication disposal pouches and locking bags, visit https://tinyurl.com/2p8k9kh9.
If You Have a Random Act of Kindness
Story, Please Share it With Us
Random acts of kindness take place around the county every day – and we want to hear about (and celebrate) them. Whether it’s paying it forward in the coffee shop line, or having kindness shown from a friend or stranger, stories of kindness can spread far and wide.

This initiative is focused on celebrating all of the thoughtful things citizens are already doing for each other, while also encouraging you to go out and do something kind for a friend, family member, neighbor, coworker or even someone you have never met before.

Submit your own kindness story by visiting https://bit.ly/3jGOPix.
Chesterfield Offers Tax Exemption
for Rehabilitating Older Homes
Are you aware that Chesterfield County allows a partial real estate tax exemption for the rehabilitation, renovation, or replacement of older residential structures?

The goal of this program is to help protect and preserve our aging neighborhoods. Upon approval, the partial tax exemption will be in effect for 15 years and transfers with the real estate. The amount of the exemption is based solely on increased assessment value, not the amount spent on the improvement project. There is no application fee.

Find out more and apply online today at https://tinyurl.com/4pfdd8t3.
Adopt-A-Spot Provides Opportunities
to Keep Chesterfield Beautiful
Interested in being an antilitter advocate? Adopt-A-Spot in Chesterfield County! Let’s work together to protect our environment.

The Keep Chesterfield Beautiful team is a part of the Department of Community Enhancement. KCB is looking for volunteers for the Adopt-A-Spot Program. This program allows organizations, businesses, and individuals to adopt smaller, more-secure areas, instead of busy roadways. A spot may be a park, school grounds, vacant lot, parking lot, walkway, median strip, street, or entranceway. The county will provide garbage bags and reflective vests as needed.

Take pride in your community by helping to keep one site beautiful and litter-free. If you are interested in attending any of our volunteer opportunities, please contact Calvin Vonada at VonadaC@chesterfield.gov or call 804-717-6136.
Concerned About Lead Paint in Your Home? Apply for Free Assessment and Abatement Program
A child’s brain grows rapidly during the first five years of life. Research shows lead exposure can harm a child’s health and brain development.

Children can be directly exposed to this hazard if they live in an older home that contains old lead-based paint, typically built before 1978. Lead-based paint can peel and crack into tiny pieces creating dust that children breath in or swallow.

Fortunately, lead exposure is preventable.

Chesterfield County’s Lead-Based Paint Hazard Control Program was created to protect children five years and younger and expectant mothers from lead exposure. In partnership with our non-profit partner, project:HOMES, families may qualify for a free lead hazard assessment and household repairs to remove lead exposure from their homes. No county staff will enter your home. This program has serviced several homes and is currently repairing others in Chesterfield that have lead-based paint.

If you’re a caregiver of younger children in an older home, you may also qualify for this program. For more information, please contact Emily Hurley by emailing Emily.Hurley@projecthomes.org or calling 804-718-0517.
Request a Speaker Today!
Did you know your group or organization can request a speaker from the #Cfield Speakers Bureau? The Speakers Bureau features a variety of topics on current and timely subjects from county leaders who are eager to talk to your group or organization.

Our subject-matter experts want to be your best resource for getting answers to important questions about Chesterfield. Topics include:

✅ 2022 State of the County
District update – Request your board member to speak
✅ Preparing for an emergency - Emergency Management
✅ Senior resources in Chesterfield - Office of Aging and Disability Services
✅ Chesterfield Cooperative Extension - Master Gardeners
✅ So much more.
Updates from Chesterfield County Public Schools
We're hiring bus drivers!
Drive a school bus and make a difference in your community. CCPS is hiring school bus drivers at a job fair next Wednesday, April 19 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Providence Middle School, 900 Starlight Lane. Registration is encouraged but not required at bit.ly/ccps041923.

Positions are full-time with benefits. Pay starts at $20.21 per hour plus bonuses, and we provide paid training for you to obtain a commercial driver's license.
Student-grown plants
on sale April 15
Student-grown vegetables, herbs, annuals, perennials and native plants will be available for purchase Saturday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Chesterfield Career and Technical Center @ Courthouse, 10101 Courthouse Road.
 
Students in urban agriculture plant systems and greenhouse production will sell more than 250
varieties of plants they have grown using only certified organic amendments.

In addition to the plant sale, students in baking and pastry and culinary arts will sell refreshments. Other student-created items for sale will include herbal products, fresh vegetables, flower arrangements and handmade soaps, while work by students in commercial photography and digital arts will also be on display.
 
Cash, checks and credit cards will be accepted, with proceeds supporting Chesterfield Career and Technical Center programs. Questions? Call 804-768-6160, ext. 1037.
Meadowbrook's Student Business Expo set for April 17
Every student in the Meadowbrook Academy for Developing Entrepreneurs will have their business on display at the Student Business Expo. The free event will take place next Monday, April 17 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in the auxiliary gym at Meadowbrook High, 4901 Cogbill Road.

Here is a sampling of the student businesses; some will have items for sale at the expo:
  • Smoked beef jerky: The Jerky Co.
  • Clothing: Khenti; Evolution; and Bespoken Kreations
  • Solar-powered headphones: Zelaya Tech
  • Hair care products: Crown Beauty; Defined Roots; and Defined by Me
  • Nerf birthday parties: Darts N Fun 
  • Pillows with pockets: KMilan Creations
  • Frames with artwork kits for kids: Glass Memories
  • Body care products: True Aura Essentials; Naturally Beautiful; and Soft Scrubs
  • Flowers and chocolate-covered strawberries: The Rose
  • Graphic design: Shay Renae Designs Graphics
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