Letter to the Editor: Thanks Stewart for representing District 5 in New Kent

I am writing to express my appreciation for New Kent District 5 Supervisor Jordan Stewart and her stance regarding the Technology Overlay District. During the Technology Overlay District discussion, it was clear that she had the best interests of her constituents and the county in mind. I understand there are challenges with representing a rapidly growing county, and Supervisor Stewart clearly does her homework and understands the money they are spending is ours, the taxpayers. Supervisor Stewart has demonstrated that District 5 has a voice on the board and isn’t afraid to share our concerns. The reason she knows our…
Read Full Story

Dugan named as Director of Community Development for Charles City

Charles City County has announced John M. Dugan as the county’s new Director of Community Development. Dugan, a Fellow of the American Institute of Certified Planners (FAICP), holds a Master of City Planning from Harvard University and a Bachelor of Arts from Tulane University. He has previously served in senior leadership positions in Monterey County, California; San Antonio, Texas; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; and most recently, served as the planning director in Loudoun County and City of Norfolk. Dugan’s background includes comprehensive planning, zoning, economic development, building permitting and inspections, code enforcement, environmental planning, housing, and community engagement. He will officially…
Read Full Story

Letter to the Editor: Says Charles City citizens should not have to spend their own money for answers

Citizens elect public officials to answer questions, responsibly manage taxpayer money, and represent the interests of the people. Yet, citizens of Charles City have repeatedly had to spend their own money simply to obtain answers from their government. Residents hired attorneys and sought court intervention because they believed important financial questions remained unanswered or undisclosed. A judge agreed and ordered a forensic audit, validating the concerns of many citizens. Questions that go unanswered include why was a former county administrator reportedly paid hundreds of thousands of dollars in severance when public statements indicated she resigned? How did the cost of…
Read Full Story

Charles City earns Distinguished Budget Presentation Award

Charles City County has received the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for its FY2027 Fiscal Plan from the Government Finance Offices Association (GFOA). The Distinguished Budget Presentation Award is the highest form of recognition in public-sector budgeting and represents a significant achievement for Charles City County. “This award is representative of our commitment to excellence and financial sustainability,” said Keith Rogers Jr., County Administrator for Charles City. “I commend the Board of Supervisors for their diligence and the residents for their input and feedback during the budget process. I also want to thank our team, especially our finance director, Christina Crawley-Jones,…
Read Full Story

Dolly Parton Imagination Library launches in New Kent

The Dolly Parton Imagination Library (DPIL) has launched in New Kent County. Partnering with Read to Them (RTT), an early-literacy nonprofit based in Richmond, more than 1000 kids under the age of five who live in the county will be able to receive free books through the program. For more information, visit https://imaginationlibrary.com/usa/affiliate/VANEWKENT.

Rudolph graduated from Virginia Tech

Amy Rudolph, a resident of New Kent, recently graduated Summa Cum Laude from Virginia Tech as part of Spring 2026 commencement ceremonies. Rudolph earned a Bachelor of Science in Animal and Poultry Sciences with a minor in agricultural and Applied Sciences. She plans to continue her education at Clemson University.

‘Ewe’-re the best

4-H sharpshooter

Gowdy graduates from Montana Sate University

Campbell Gowdy, a resident of Providence Forge, recently graduated from Montana State University as part of May 8 commencement ceremonies. Gowdy earned a Bachelor of Science in Business, graduating with honors. She plans to pursue a Masters of Science in Innovation and Management beginning this fall from Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship.

Two local students recently completed their studies at Shenandoah University

Two local students recently completed their studies at Shenandoah University and were recognized as part of Spring 2026 commencement ceremonies during a May 9 ceremony. Rachel Owens, a resident of Lanexa, earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Genevieve Burnett, a resident of Charles City, earned a Doctor of Occupational Therapy.