Welcome to another monthly edition of the Albemarle County Community Digest. Thank you for subscribing and being an engaged member of our community! Please share this email with any friends, family, and neighbors who might be interested in staying informed.

Upcoming Events & Opportunities

Albemarle County Fire Rescue (ACFR): Get Ready for Fire Prevention Week 🔥

Join Albemarle County Fire Rescue October 3–10 for a week of fun, learning, and fire safety! From meeting your local firefighters to exploring fire trucks and completing fun activities, there’s something for everyone.

Visit albemarle.org/calendar to download your Fire Prevention Week 2026 Scavenger Hunt card and get ready to complete some missions!

We can’t wait to see you there! 🚒

Albemarle County Police Department (ACPD) Events

Coffee with a Cop Day

Join the Albemarle County Police Department for National Coffee with a Cop Day! This is a chance to meet your Albemarle County Police officers, ask questions, and enjoy some casual conversation over a cup of coffee. No speeches, no agenda—just neighbors connecting.

Wednesday, October 7, 9-10:30 am - First Free Coffee Bar (340 Towncenter Lane, Suite 100)

We hope to see you there!



Prescription Drug Take Back Day

The Albemarle County Police Department, in partnership with Sentara, Wegmans, and the DEA, will host four drop-off locations for National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, October 24, 2026 (add this to your calendar). This free and anonymous service is the safest way to dispose of unwanted or expired prescription and over-the-counter medications, vape pens, and e-cigarettes. Proper disposal helps prevent misuse and protects the environment.

Medical sharps will be accepted at Sentara locations only (in puncture-proof containers such as detergent bottles or red sharps containers). Please remove identifying information from all medication bottles.

New in 2026! At the main hospital location, a pharmacist will collect unopened, unexpired prescription medications in their original manufacturer packaging. The pharmacist will then redistribute all approved medications to individuals in need.

Drop-off locations:

• Wegmans (no sharps accepted) (100 Wegmans Way, Charlottesville, VA 22902)
• Sentara Martha Jefferson Hospital, Phillips Cancer Center Entrance (drive-thru) (500 Martha Jefferson Drive, Charlottesville, VA 22911)
• Sentara Crozet Family Medicine (drive-thru) (1646 Park Ridge Drive, Crozet, VA 22932)
• Sentara Forest Lakes Family Medicine (drive-thru) (3263 Proffit Road, Suite 201, Charlottesville, VA 22911) 

Can't make it?

ACPD sponsors two DEA National Prescription Take Back Days each year on the last Saturdays of April and October. Outside of Take Back Days, community members can utilize a permanent drop-off box for pills and patches at the Sentara Martha Jefferson Outpatient Pharmacy, available Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm. For more details, call the Outpatient Pharmacy at 434-654-3350.



Halloween Safety Trunk-or-Treat Events at Claudius Crozet Park and Darden Towe Park

Albemarle County Police and our public safety partners invite you to two fun-filled evenings of Halloween safety awareness and community celebration!

📍 Claudius Crozet Park – Thursday, October 29, 4–7 pm

📍 Darden Towe Park – Friday, October 30, 4–7 pm

These free events include trunk-or-treating, safety resources, and activities for kids of all ages. Costumes are encouraged—we’ll bring the treats! Learn more: www.albemarle.org/police.

Battle of the Badges is also happening at Darden Towe Park on October 30 - catch a softball game featuring regional first responders. The games begin at 8 am, with the championship slated for 4 pm.



Community Climate Collaborative (C3) - Party for the Planet Returns! Join the Celebration on October 2 🌍✨

Party for the Planet is back soon, and we’re thrilled to sponsor this year’s community celebration with our partners at C3. Join us and the Community Climate Collaborative at IX Art Park on Friday, October 2, from 5:30–8 pm for a FREE event honoring our community and the leaders driving climate action.

Attendees can enjoy live music, delicious food and beverage trucks, fun games, awards, electric vehicles on display, and much more. This family-friendly evening is packed with excitement, and you won’t want to miss it. We look forward to seeing you on October 2 at IX! Learn more details about this event on the Party for the Planet — Community Climate Collaborative website.

Rivanna Solid Waste Authority (RSWA) - Upcoming Free Bulky Waste Days

Rivanna Solid Waste Authority (RSWA) operates a limited household hazardous waste collection site at the Ivy Solid Waste & Recycling Center (SWRC) location. This fall, the residents of Albemarle County, the City of Charlottesville, and the Town of Scottsville can bring specific hazardous waste items to the RSWA Ivy Solid Waste & Recycling Center during the 2026 Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) and Bulky Waste Days.



2026 Bulky Waste Free Disposal Days will be held on the following upcoming Saturdays from 8:30 am - 4 pm: October 3 and October 10.

Learn more about which specific items are accepted for each date. Free Disposal Days are available only to residents of Albemarle County, the City of Charlottesville, and the Town of Scottsville.

Participate in VDOT’s US 29 STARS Public Surveys Soon: October 13 - 27

The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) invites community members to take public surveys for two US 29 Strategically Targeted and Affordable Roadway Solutions (STARS) studies, open October 13–27. These surveys will help shape improvements along the U.S. 29 corridor and the U.S. 29/250 Bypass at the Emmet Street interchange.

The study will consider and develop potential safety and operational improvements for vehicular, bicycle, pedestrian, and transit users in the study area and develop cost estimates for the preferred alternatives. The study recommendations include safety improvements and ways to improve traffic flow, ease of use for all road users, and more.

Learn more about this study. Community members can access the surveys through the VDOT STARS Study webpage on Tuesday, October 13, and are encouraged to provide input to support future transportation planning in our area. Be sure to check back and participate in the surveys opening October 13-27.

Current Job Openings and Opportunities: Join the Albemarle County Team

We have a wide variety of career openings. If you're interested in more opportunities for a rewarding career serving the community, visit our website to view current job openings and apply today. Know someone who might be interested? Share this information with your friends and family!

Upcoming UVA Career and Community Fair on October 6 - We welcome you to visit representatives from the Albemarle County Police Department at the upcoming 2026 Fall UVA Career & Community Fair, presented by our partners at UVA Pipelines & Pathways. The event will be held on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, from 10 am to 3 pm at Carver Recreation Center (233 4th St. NW, Charlottesville, VA 22903), sponsored by the City of Charlottesville Office of Economic Development. This is an opportunity to meet staff from the Albemarle County Police Department and learn more about our current openings in the Police Department. Add this event to your calendar or learn more.

Announcements

Albemarle County Parks and Recreation (ACPR)

ACFR Recap and Reminder: Child Passenger Safety Week

Child Passenger Safety Week may be over, but keeping your little ones safe on the road is a year-round priority!

Albemarle County Fire Rescue offers car seat checks to help families ensure their child’s car seat is appropriate for their age and size and is properly installed. Whether you’re preparing for a new arrival, transitioning to a different car seat, or simply want peace of mind, our team is here to help.

📅 Schedule a car seat check:

Online: ACFireRescue.org

Email: cseats@albemarle.org

Call: 434-531-6614

Let’s work together to keep our youngest passengers safe on every ride!



Economic Development Office (EDO)

Bellair Farm awarded $22,000 to advance Coldlink Collaborative Central VA Project

Bellair Farm, in Southern Albemarle County, has been selected in the latest round of Governor Abigail Spanberger’s Agriculture and Forestry Industries Development (AFID) Infrastructure Grants. The $11,000 award from Virginia’s Agriculture and Forestry Industries Development will fund the purchase of a refrigerated box truck, expanding the farm’s capacity to deliver pork products in collaboration with Stock Provisions and Honest Meats. Albemarle County is providing a local match, contributing an additional $11,000. This resource will bolster Bellair’s growing reach, helping the farm better serve its approximately 650 Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) households, seasonal market offerings, and the Barn Store, while maintaining its commitment to farm-to-table freshness.

This strategic expansion not only bolsters the region’s agricultural economy but also reinforces the County’s reputation as a leader in supporting sustainable, community-focused farming. Albemarle County celebrates Bellair Farm’s continued leadership in advancing local agriculture and strengthening community access to fresh, locally sourced food.

United Way of Greater Charlottesville has announced the recipients of this year’s Envision Enterprise Grants, presented in partnership with the City of Charlottesville and Albemarle County’s Economic Development Offices. - Five locally owned businesses led by socially disadvantaged entrepreneurs each received a $10,000 grant to support expansion projects ranging from facility improvements and new equipment purchases to enhanced marketing and service upgrades. United Way President & CEO Ravi Cooper emphasized that thriving small businesses strengthen the regional economy by creating jobs, supporting families, and enriching neighborhood vitality.

The 2026 grant recipients include A Mother’s Touch Childcare, Allens Scottish Shortbread, Curated Concierge, Second Serve Tennis, and Michelle’s Soul Food. Designed to help financially stable small businesses overcome barriers to affordable capital, the Envision Enterprise Grant program empowers owners to take meaningful steps toward growth while building long‑term stability. Congratulations to this year’s awardees—your continued success brings valuable services, opportunities, and energy to our community.



People & Project Spotlights

Albemarle County Honored with Two State VDOT Virginia Locally Administered Projects (LAP) Awards

This month, Albemarle County received two VDOT LAP Awards. This is the first year the Virginia Department of Transportation’s Local Assistance Division has hosted the Virginia Locally Administered Projects (LAP) Awards Competition, which recognizes outstanding achievements and innovative projects by local governments.

Albemarle County’s Crozet Square & Oak Street Improvements Project has received the Community Impact Award, recognizing its role in enhancing accessibility, connectivity, safety, and the overall vibrancy of Crozet’s downtown core. The project also launched the Shop the Square campaign to support local economic development and encourage residents and visitors to continue supporting local businesses throughout the project. 

In addition, the project was named the 2026 Project of the Year, highlighting successful management, early completion, and the delivery of key objectives that support long-term community growth.

This accomplishment highlights the collaborative efforts of Albemarle County, VDOT, Kimley-Horn, Timmons Group, WRA, Faulconer Construction, and the Virginia Passenger Rail Authority.

The improvements have upgraded aging infrastructure and laid the groundwork for future projects that will continue to shape Crozet’s development.

Parks and Recreation: Strengthening Community Through Service - Day of Caring Volunteers and Highlights

This year, Albemarle County Parks & Recreation staff proudly supported the 35th Annual United Way Day of Caring through a series of impactful projects across the community. At Stone Robinson Elementary School, staff coordinated trail improvements and a Rivanna River cleanup effort, working alongside 65 volunteers from local organizations to enhance river access, remove litter and discarded tires, and prepare an outdoor classroom for future learning.

Meanwhile, additional volunteer teams—including community partners such as UVA Radiology and dedicated Esmont residents—contributed significant improvements at the Yancey Community Center. Their work included building and roofing a pergola, revitalizing garden beds, repainting and restoring outdoor spaces, reorganizing key community areas, and completing a transformative courtyard project. Parks & Recreation volunteers also supported efforts at Biscuit Run Park, contributing their time and energy to enhance the community’s outdoor spaces.

Together, these collaborative efforts strengthened community connections, improved public spaces, and demonstrated the powerful impact of volunteerism. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all volunteers, partners, and participants who gave their time, skill, and energy to make this year’s Day of Caring a success.



In Case You Missed It

Early In-Person Voting Has Begun



Election Day - Tuesday, November 3, 2026. All precinct polling places will be open from 6 am to 7 pm. Register to vote and create a voting plan for the upcoming General Election! 

There are three different ways to cast your vote:

• early in-person,
• vote by mail (absentee),
• or in-person at your polling place on Election Day

Register or update your registration by 5 pm Friday, October 23, 2026. Be sure to check on your voter status.

Early in-person voting began Friday, September 18. Any voter registered in Albemarle County may vote early in person at the County Office Building on 5th Street in Conference Room A. 

What's on the ballot? View the Proposed Constitutional Amendments and Local Referendum to be voted on at the November 3, 2026 Election

This November, in addition to the U.S. Senate, U.S. House of Representatives, and the Proposed Constitutional Amendments, Albemarle County voters will also decide whether the County may add a 1% local sales tax—one cent per dollar—dedicated solely to building and renovating public schools, as allowed by state law. Visit our website to learn about the School Construction Sales Tax Referendum.

Read this email to learn more about all the options for casting your vote. Still have questions about this election? Call our Elections Office at 434-972-4173 for assistance. 



Recap: September Event Round-Up

Historical Marker Unveiling Ceremony at Yancey Community Center



This month, we held an unveiling ceremony for a new dual-sided historical marker at Yancey. Thank you to everyone who joined us and supported the celebration honoring the history of Yancey Elementary (formerly Benjamin Franklin Yancey Elementary School) and Esmont High School. Your presence helped make the unveiling of the new historical marker a truly meaningful and memorable moment.

We are grateful for the community leaders, alumni, neighbors, and partners who came together to recognize the legacy of these beloved institutions and their impact on generations of families in Esmont and beyond. The heartfelt remarks, shared memories, and warm connections throughout the afternoon reflected the strength and pride of this community.

This event was made possible through the collaboration of the Historic Preservation Committee, County staff, the Yancey Community Center, dedicated alumni, and local volunteers. Thank you for helping us honor this important history and for continuing to support efforts that broaden and celebrate Albemarle County’s shared story.

Photo Credit: Melissa Zheng 



Albemarle County Fire Rescue (ACFR) and Charlottesville Fire Department (CFD)

Honor Victims of September 11 

As our country united to commemorate the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, Albemarle County Fire Rescue and the Charlottesville Fire Department united to honor and remember the lives lost with a stair climb event in John Paul Jones Arena. This event was also sponsored by IAFF 2363 and IAFF 4007. Albemarle Pipes and Drums provided a bagpipe performance, and Albemarle and Charlottesville Honor Guards conducted the Presentation of Colors.

Alongside volunteer departments, law enforcement, EMS, and community members, crews from ACFR and CFD climbed 2,071 steps, symbolizing the 110 flights that first responders ascended in each World Trade Center tower.

Each year, stair climb events are held across the country to honor and pay respect to the 343 firefighters who gave their lives on 9/11/2001. These events memorialize the trek those first responders made into and up the World Trade Center buildings.

The attacks on September 11 took 2,977 lives. Events like this are more than symbolic—they reinforce the importance of readiness, mental wellness, and long-term health in public safety professions. The fire service continues to evolve based on lessons from 9/11, focusing on cancer prevention, mental health support, and improved protective equipment, all central to our public safety mission/goals. By participating in national remembrance events, ACFR supports a culture of continuous improvement, honoring the past while actively shaping a safer, healthier future for first responders and our community we serve.



2026 SEAS the Day Veterans' Outdoor Day



The 2026 SEAS the Day Veterans’ Outdoor Day at Walnut Creek Park took place on Sunday, September 20. This event, geared toward military families and hosted by the West Point Society of Monticello, was sponsored in partnership with Albemarle County Parks and Recreation.

There were plenty of outdoor activities, from spin and fly-fishing instruction to games for children. Local business organizations that support and provide opportunities to veterans were also on site. Thank you to all veterans and everyone who supported and participated in the SEAS the Day event.

Board of Supervisors Recognizes September as World Alzheimer's Month



The Albemarle County Board of Supervisors has officially recognized September as World Alzheimer’s Month, reaffirming the County’s commitment to becoming a Dementia Friendly Community. With more than 11% of local residents aged 65+ living with Alzheimer’s dementia, this recognition highlights the importance of community awareness, caregiver support, and accessible resources. Residents are encouraged to learn the signs of dementia, practice patient communication, and connect neighbors with helpful services.

Read the full announcement in the original email and learn more.



Reminder: FY28 County Funding Opportunities for Community Non-Profits

Thanks to everyone who participated in the virtual FY28 Human Services Funding Process, Arts & Cultural Funding, and Community Non‑Profit Capital Request Funding Process information sessions. These sessions were intended to help organizations prepare before applications open on the Wizehive NextZen online platform on Thursday, October 1, 2026, and are due by 11:59 pm on Monday, November 2.

If you missed the virtual orientation sessions covering all three funding programs, the application process, and an overview of the Wizehive site, you can view the session recording and presentation slides on our website. We appreciate connecting with you and are thankful for the opportunity to support your organizations throughout the FY28 funding process. If you have questions or need assistance, please contact the Office of Grants and Agreements at grants@albemarle.org.

ACPR Reminder: We Need Your Input on Summer Swim by October 6

Thanks to everyone who joined us for this year's Summer Swim Season.  From kayak rentals to relaxing in the sand, residents of all ages made the most of our parks this summer. Now we'd like to learn more about your visits. We value your feedback! The Summer Swim Survey is available until October 6.

Please take a few minutes to share your valued thoughts to help guide improvements and make next summer even better. Our Parks and Recreation team will review your answers and use them to build on our successes and identify opportunities for improvement in future seasons. 

👉 Take the Summer Swim Survey Here. Thank you for being part of what makes our swim season so special!

Department of Social Services: SNAP/EBT Changes This Fall

Virginia has begun rolling out new EBT chip cards! When your new card arrives, you must activate it right away. Your old card will deactivate once you activate the new one, or 60 days after it is mailed. Check your mail often. If you do not receive your new card, contact your LDSS. Activation instructions will be included in the mailer with your new card.

Haven’t received a chip card yet? Don’t worry. Households across the Commonwealth will receive their cards at different times. Contact your local department of social services if you haven’t received a new EBT chip card by December 31, 2026. Learn more at VirginiaChipCard.com.

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