EDA reviews legal, property matters at July meeting

The Front Royal Warren County EDA held its monthly meeting on Friday, July 22, 2022, at 8:00 am. Four Board members, legal counsel, and the County Director of Economic Development were present. Chair, Jeff Browne, provided an executive update which began with thanks to the Board for the time that has been put into the ongoing legal matters.

Mr. Browne discussed his recent presentation to the Front Royal EDA regarding FRWCEDA-owned properties. The Board approved a Right of Entry request from the Town of Front Royal to perform maintenance at the parking lot area where the EDA and Laurel Ridge Community College are in partnership. The Board tabled the proposed utility easement running across the property until further discussion.

The EDA’s legal counsel presented a by-law revision that would allow electronic meetings as permitted by Virginia Code. Given the code is not in effect until September 2022, the Board tabled the vote and created an ad hoc committee consisting of Jorie Martin and Greg Harold to review the by-laws in its entirety for other revisions. Related to the EDA by-laws, the Board discussed members being compensated for regular meetings and business expenses as permitted by Virginia Code. A request will be sent to the Warren County Board of Supervisors to discuss the compensation request.

A resolution was adopted by the Board of Directors that permits the County to process existing loan payments upon receipt to avoid any delays and that statements will be provided for all payments.

The Board also approved the ability of the Chair and Secretary to sign closing documents for 426 Baugh Drive.

The Warren County Director of Economic Development, Joe Petty, provided an update on current activities related to prospects, small business loans, annual audits, and marketing.

The Board concluded the meeting with a closed session to discuss business opportunities, with no new business following the closed session.