Supervisors defer truck stop decision, focus on schools

At the request of Wilco-Hess LLC, New Kent’s Board of Supervisors at its June 10 meeting deferred action on a conditional use permit (CUP) for the company’s proposed Route 106 truck stop.

After a public hearing on May 13, supervisors elected to defer action while parties involved in the proposed developmental area rendered solutions to a possible increase in traffic. That meeting, consisting of representatives from Wilco-Hess, Pilot, Farms of New Kent, and MHF Dining, convened on May 23, yielding progress according to county administrator Rodney Hathaway.

Hathaway said Wilco-Hess’ request was a last minute decision.

“An e-mail was sent directly to the chairman [District 5 supervisor Ray Davis] and asked to defer the decision,” said Hathaway. “There was no specific reason given, but they are having a meeting next week.”

In other matters, Hathaway and supervisors are looking into alternatives to relocate New Kent’s school board employees.

With a scheduled $45,000 lease set to expire, supervisors are meeting with school board members to determine a location for operations. Among recommendations include the Historic Courthouse, a building currently occupied by New Kent Registrar’s Office.

“I have a few concerns about the move,” said Charles E. Moss Sr., chairman of the county’s electoral board. “I wonder if the move is permanent, and if there will be a place for us and our equipment storage.

“With the county’s population close to 20,000, we need to have room for equipment,” concluded Moss.

Hathaway responded with recommendations and suggestions of possible locations.

“I think the space in the fire administration building can accommodate them,” said the county administrator. “There are also some other places we will look at with them.”

Davis said the proposed moves are to help the county and the employees.

“We are trying to save space, and save money, but also accommodate everyone as well,” concluded Davis.