Hanover County's E-Newsletter

December 15, 2025

Hanover Animal Protection Officer tells the true story of Trashed Panda

Hanover County Animal Protection Officer Martin joined us on our Hear In Hanover podcast to share her firsthand account of the Black Friday Bandit — aka Trashed Panda — the raccoon whose wild adventure has now gone international.

 

She walks us through what really happened that day, how the team cared for our unexpected visitor and how this viral moment is helping support animals at our shelter.

 

Want to be part of the fun and help our shelter pets? Grab your Trashed Panda merch here

 

Watch or listen now for behind-the-scenes details, lots of laughs and a story you won’t forget! Search "Hear In Hanover" wherever you listen to podcasts or visit our website.

Hanover County named one of Virginia’s 2026 Best Places to Work

Virginia Business has named Hanover County one of the 2026 Best Places to Work in Virginia.

 

This recognition is based on a two-part assessment — an employee satisfaction survey and a review of our workplace policies, culture and values. Hanover County was recognized for its strong leadership, supportive environment and commitment to employee success.

 

Looking for a collaborative workplace with great communication, positive supervisor relationships and room to grow? Join Team Hanover at www.hanovercountyjobs.com.

Community celebrates the holiday season at Winter on the Green

Thank you to everyone who came out to celebrate the holiday season with us at Winter on the Green! Your smiles, laughter and festive spirit made the County Complex shine bright.

 

Want to keep the magic going? Santa will be visiting the Hanover Museum of History & Culture this Tuesday through Thursday from 4 to 6:45 p.m. This free experience requires registration to reserve your time slot, with walk-ins welcomed as space allows. Families can take their own photos with Santa and enjoy a winter wonderland sensory room while waiting.

Hanover opens nominations for 2026 Spirit of Volunteerism Awards

Hanover County is now accepting nominations for the 2026 Spirit of Volunteerism Awards, an annual celebration recognizing individuals and groups whose compassion, dedication and service make a significant difference in the community.


We’re excited to introduce brand-new categories designed to celebrate the full range of volunteers in Hanover County — from youth to seniors, and from faith-based groups to local businesses.


Recognize those making a difference in our community. Submit your nominations online here.

New Citizens Fire Academy shows residents behind the scenes

Ever wondered what it’s like to step into the boots of a first responder? Now’s your chance.


Hanover County Fire-EMS has officially launched its inaugural Citizens Fire Academy, giving residents an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at how we protect more than 117,000 people every day.


Participants will learn life-saving skills, gain specialized insight and connect with others in the community.


Sessions begin February 2026, with graduation in April. Sessions are every Wednesday, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., and one Saturday (half day) for 10 weeks. 

Hanover earns three awards from Virginia Recreation and Park Society

We're thrilled to share that Hanover County Parks and Recreation received three awards from the Virginia Recreation and Park Society!


  • Most Creative Marketing Strategy — Tommy the Tomato: From parades and community events to our annual Hanover Tomato Festival, Tommy brings smiles and celebrates Hanover’s agricultural heritage.
  • Best New Facility (Bricks & Mortar) — Montpelier Recreation Center and Library: This 20,000-square-foot community hub combines full library services, recreation, classrooms and event space — plus a fully renovated Wickham Field ready for baseball and softball in 2026!
  • Best New Inclusion Initiative — SpookyFUN Fest Sensory Zone: Our sensory-friendly zone created a safe, calming space for participants of all needs — away from the flashing lights, loud sounds and crowded activity areas.


Congratulations and thank you to our incredible team for crafting these experiences for our community!

A half-century of dedication

Congratulations, Karen Winston!

 

After an incredible 51 years of service with Hanover County, Karen is retiring from the Commissioner of the Revenue’s office. She was honored with a proclamation at last week’s Board of Supervisors meeting, recognizing her decades of dedication, professionalism and commitment to serving our community.

 

Karen began her career just three months after graduating from Patrick Henry High School, meticulously hand-drafting tax maps long before the process was computerized. Over the years, she’s filled nearly every role in the office. Beyond her work, Karen has volunteered with the Sheriff’s Office for more than 20 years, earning the nickname “cookie lady” for the treats she brings to every training exercise.

 

A lifelong Hanover resident, Karen’s impact on our County is immeasurable. We are grateful for her dedication and wish her a happy and fulfilling retirement.

Share your feedback on Atlee Station Road

Hanover County will hold a citizen information meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 16, at 6 p.m. in the Chickahominy Middle School cafeteria, 9450 Atlee Station Road, on the proposed widening of Atlee Station Road from its intersection with Sliding Hill Road to its intersection with Castle Tower Road and Forrest Patch Drive.


The meeting will include a project overview with tentative schedule information, Q&A session, and an opportunity to engage one-on-one and in small groups with members of the project team. The community is invited to attend and share their feedback on the proposed design.


You can also share your feedback online at engage.hanovercounty.gov/atleephase3.

County collecting feedback on proposed Greenwood Church Road roundabout

There will be a public hearing on the proposed Greenwood Church Road/Blanton Road/Ashland Road/Ashcake Road roundabout on Wednesday, Dec. 17, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. in the Patrick Henry High School library, 12449 West Patrick Henry Road.


The hearing will include a project overview with tentative schedule information, Q&A session, and an opportunity to engage one-on-one and in small groups with members of the project team.


You can also share your feedback online at engage.hanovercounty.gov/greenwoodroundabout.

Help our pets find a home for the holidays

Join us on Saturday, Dec. 20, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Hanover County Animal Protection and Shelter, 12471 Taylor Complex Lane, for our Clear the Shelter Christmas Open House.


Enjoy local vendors, meet Santa Claus, sip on hot cocoa, and spend time with our adorable adoptable dogs and cats looking for their forever homes!


Adoption fees will be reduced for this event. We are also accepting donations, and you can find the wish list here.


Bring the family, spread some joy and meet your new best friend.

We Want to Hear From You!

Did you purchase Trashed Panda merch?

Upcoming Events

Magic in a Jar

LOCATION

Montpelier Recreation Center and Library

DATE AND TIME

12/19/25 11:30am - 12/19/25 1:00pm US/Eastern
Participants will create their own mini snow globes inside jars, complete with sparkling snow and festive decorations.
Ashland Farmers Market

LOCATION

Ashland Town Hall, 121 Thompson Street

DATE AND TIME

12/20/25 9:00am - 12/20/25 12:00pm US/Eastern
Shop local for holiday gifts, fresh produce, baked goods and handmade treats — grown or made within 30 miles of Ashland.

Board of Supervisors Meetings






Wednesday,

January 14 at 2 p.m.

Board of Supervisors meetings can be watched live or on-demand here.

Hanover Board Brief


Hanover Board Brief is your new go-to source for a quick rundown of key highlights and discussions from Board meetings.


Stay in the loop and view all Hanover Board Briefs here.

Stay Connected


Sign up to receive news and announcements from the entire Board of Supervisors, or choose your district supervisor for updates specific to your area.


Subscribe here.

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Engage Hanover

Hear In Hanover Podcast

Come Join Team Hanover!

We want to work alongside you on Team Hanover!


  • Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney
  • Family Services Supervisor
  • Revenue Collection Agent
  • Tax Auditor



For more opportunities in Hanover County, visit www.hanovercountyjobs.com.

Hanover County's E-Newsletter

December 15, 2025

Hanover County Communications and Community Engagement

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