Cumberland County Recognized by Virginia Association of Counties

For Immediate Release

August 11, 2025

Contact: Derek Stamey

County Administrator

Phone: (804) 492-3625

Email: dstamey@cumberlandcounty.virginia.gov

Cumberland VA – Cumberland County has been recognized by the Virginia Association of Counties for Excellence in the Development of its Energy Facilities Policy.  Each year VACo recognizes the efforts of counties across the Commonwealth with the Achievement Awards, which recognize excellence in local government programs.   

“Thank you to all who participated in the 23rd year of the Achievement Awards,” VACo Executive Director Dean Lynch said. “Every year we seem to receive a record number of submissions. The program grows because counties continue to serve their communities well, and these awards are a reflection of the innovative work. Congratulations to county staff and leadership for their continued hard work and good decision making reflected in all 155 entries.”

This year’s judges were Charles Hartgrove, ICMA-CM, Managing Director of the Virginia Institute of Government; Dr. Sheryl Bailey, Visiting Professor of Practice at Virginia Tech, and former Chesterfield County Deputy County Administrator; and Penny Gross, former longtime Fairfax County Supervisor.

The purpose of the development of Cumberland County’s Energy Facility Policy was to provide guidance for the siting, development, operations, and decommissioning of energy generating facilities in Cumberland County that require a conditional use permit – all with the intent of maintaining localized decision making.  The policy is reviewed internally every six months and requires the review of company financials, DEQ review, additional public noticing, strengthened development standards, mitigation of environmental impacts, and decommissioning.

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