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 County, Schools Hosting Joint Public Meetings on '1 For Schools' Referendum
 The Chesterfield Board of Supervisors and School Board will host a series of joint meetings throughout the county next month to discuss the “1 For Schools” 1% sales tax referendum that will be on the Nov. 3 general election ballot.
Staff from both the county and CCPS will provide an overview of the referendum and break down the proposed school projects.
The meetings, which are all scheduled to begin at 6 p.m., will take place on the following dates:
- Sept. 3 – Meadowbrook High School (Dale District)
- Sept. 9 – Midlothian High School (Midlothian District)
- Sept. 14 – Clover Hill High School (Clover Hill District)
- Sept. 16 – Thomas Dale High School (Bermuda District)
- Sept. 17 – Manchester High School (Matoaca District)
Additional information about the referendum, including voting details and eligible projects, is available at chesterfield.gov/1ForSchools.
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The initial draft of a proposed update to Chesterfield's comprehensive plan, known as PlanMod, is now available for public review and comments.
The comprehensive plan is a long-range policy document that shapes how land in our community develops over time. It's our collective vision that outlines where we grow, how we preserve what matters and what priorities we carry forward for the next generation.
Changes to the county's land use map proposed in PlanMod also can be viewed in a Story Map application, along with directions on how to leave comments on the map.
Find a schedule of upcoming community meetings and other public engagement opportunities on the project webpage.
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In the News
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Learn About Otterdale Road Drainage Enhancements
A virtual community meeting has been scheduled for next Monday, Aug. 17 at 6 p.m. to share updates about the drainage project on Otterdale Road at Swift Creek. The project will help address roadway flooding by realigning a portion of Otterdale Road and replacing the existing Swift Creek crossings with a new bridge designed to better withstand major weather events.
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Signups Now Open for Fall 2026 Govt. Citizens Academy
Registration is open through Aug. 31 for the Fall 2026 Government Citizens Academy. Sessions will be held on Thursdays from 9 a.m. to noon, beginning Sept. 17 and concluding Nov. 12. The program helps Chesterfield residents learn about their local government's operations, programs and services and provides opportunities to offer feedback to county leaders.
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Find Out About Upcoming Changes to SNAP, Medicaid
Important updates are coming to SNAP and Medicaid that could impact your benefits. From new eligibility and verification requirements to more secure EBT cards, there are several changes you’ll want to be aware of in the coming months. Find important information on the county's YouTube channel.
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Apply by Aug. 14 to Take Part in Centenarian Celebration
Chesterfield residents who are turning 100 or older this year are invited to participate in the community's acknowledgement of their centenarian status. To be recognized at the September Board of Supervisors meeting, submit an online application by Friday, Aug. 14 at 5 p.m.
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78th Basic CERT Training Course Begins Aug. 20
There’s still time to sign up for the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), a free, hands‑on training program that teaches community members how to safely help during emergencies. Learn skills like disaster preparedness, fire safety, basic medical operations, and more — all taught by trained instructors. The 78th Basic CERT course begins Thursday, Aug. 20.
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Study Will Help Identify Regional Recycling Solutions
Heads up, Chesterfield! PlanRVA and Central Virginia Waste Management Authority (CVWMA) are partnering on a recycling study to identify barriers around household recycling in the Richmond area’s urban, suburban and rural communities, and they need your help. Your responses will help improve programs throughout the region and you'll be entered to win a $100 gift card.
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Upcoming Events
Summer Nights at the Perk: Sammy Lee
Wednesday, Aug. 12, 6-8 p.m. at the Perkinson Center
Rooted in the blues and infused with Motown, folk and acoustic influences, Sammy Lee delivers a performance that is raw, soulful, and completely authentic. With over a decade of vocal mastery, his rich baritone, incredible range, and heartfelt songwriting create a concert experience that leaves audiences captivated. This performance is scheduled to take place outdoors on the Panchita Cline Patio.
Alverser Drive/Old Buckingham Road Roundabout Meeting
Tuesday, Aug. 18, 6-7:30 p.m. at Midlothian Middle School
Community members are invited to attend a public hearing, learn more about a proposed roundabout at the intersection of Alverser Drive and Old Buckingham Road and provide public comment.
Westchester Concert Series: Brasswind
Thursday, Aug. 20, 5:30-8:30 p.m. at Main Street Stage
Season 11 continues with Hampton Roads' Premier Horn and Party Band, who will most definitely get your feet moving. Bring your chairs, blankets and of course, your dancing shoes, but please remember to not bring any kind of drink containers, including thermos or Tervis-type containers. They will not be allowed inside the venue.
Chesterfield County Fair
Friday, Aug. 28 through Saturday, Sept. 5 at County Fairgrounds
The fair has been a beloved community tradition for 115 years. You can unwind at the Grandstand, take in performances from top musical acts, sample tasty food options and enjoy a variety of fun activities. The Midway also offers exciting rides.
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When much of Chesterfield is still sleeping, the world’s lights begin to flicker on as the sun rises over the James River. The morning dew has yet to dry, and the sound of birds and bugs fill the silence around them. At Robious Landing Park, the gentle sound of water adds to the ambiance as boats full of dedicated, ambitious local students glide between the banks.
For more than two decades, James River High School crew team has brought one of the oldest sports in the world to the county’s doorstep and provided a unique athletic experience to students willing to take a chance on something new.
“What we fight is an education battle,” said coach and former competitive rower Chuck Alexander. “People know football, baseball and volleyball but not many people know what rowing is or what it means.”
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Chesterfield Behind the Mic
On the latest episode of Chesterfield Behind the Mic, General Services Assistant Director Samuel Hayes III details how his love for genealogy started almost 50 years ago, the lessons he’s learned throughout that journey, and what drives him to continue looking for more connections.
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Every Monday, This Week in Chesterfield points residents to fun, exciting and interesting things going on around their community.
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Chesterfield Behind the Mic is an audio and video podcast focusing on the people, stories and happenings of #Cfield.
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Subscribe to our Chesterfield on Point blog to stay informed about a variety of topics and events important to the community.
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Adoptable Pet Spotlight
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Introducing Sailor!
Sailor is a total goof and simply loves life. His happiness is contagious. He has no idea what to do with toys but is interested in learning. He loves exploring outside and all the treats! Sailor gets along great with other dogs and would love a play buddy. He is around 3 years old and weighs 29 lbs.
If you are interested in meeting this pet, please contact Chesterfield County Animal Services at 804-748-1683, option "2," to schedule an appointment. Office staff are available by phone 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday, and 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m. on Saturdays. Our shelter is located at 9300 Public Works Road.
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Resources and Useful Information
'1 For Schools' Referendum Will Be on Nov. 3 Election Ballot
On Tuesday, Nov. 3, Chesterfield County voters will be asked whether the county should be authorized to levy an additional local retail sales tax of up to 1 percentage point.
If voters approve the referendum, the Board of Supervisors could then adopt an ordinance to levy the tax. Revenue from the tax could be used only for qualifying capital projects involving the construction or major renovation of public schools serving Chesterfield County. The tax would expire July 22, 2046.
If the additional sales tax is implemented, it will be offset with a reduction of 2 cents in the real estate tax rate and 10 cents in the personal property tax rate.
Have questions about the referendum, proposed projects or how the funding could be used? Email the 1 for Schools team.
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Farmers Market Open Wednesdays Through Sept. 30
Farmers markets, which support local businesses, are an important resource for communities to provide access to local fresh produce, food, horticultural goods and hygiene products.
The Chesterfield County Farmers Market is open Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. through Sept. 30 at 6701 Mimms Loop. During season, view the county calendar and visit the market's Facebook page for weekly updates and vendor lists.
You can also visit C-Fit Community for weekly updates about food trucks scheduled to be at the farmers market.
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Chesterfield Residents, Help is a Click Away
The Chesterfield Health District is one of 35 health districts, made up of 119 local health departments under the Virginia Department of Health. It serves the counties of Chesterfield, Powhatan and the city of Colonial Heights to include more than 430,000 residents.
Simply enter your ZIP code at FindHelpVA to search for free or low-cost programs near you and get help with healthcare, housing, food, and more.
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Request a Speaker Today!
Did you know your group or organization can request a speaker from the #Cfield Speakers Bureau? The Speakers Bureau features a variety of topics on current and timely subjects from county leaders who are eager to talk to your group or organization.
Our subject-matter experts want to be your best resource for getting answers to important questions about Chesterfield. Topics include:
✅ District update – Request your board member to speak
✅ Preparing for an emergency - Emergency Management
✅ Senior resources in Chesterfield - Office of Aging and Disability Resources
✅ So much more
Request a speaker online.
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Was this newsletter forwarded to you? Get your weekly dose of Chesterfield news by signing up for Happening in Chesterfield.
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 New Bensley Elementary Opens for 2026-27 School Year
On Wednesday, Aug. 5, leaders from Chesterfield County Public Schools and Chesterfield County government cut the ribbon to officially open the new Bensley Elementary School. After a brief ceremony, families and community members explored the new building.
"Bensley students and teachers will be buzzing with excitement and potential as they get to know their new classrooms and other learning spaces,” said Superintendent Dr. John Murray. “Aug. 24 will be an especially memorable first day of school for the Bensley Tigers!"
See the new Bensley Elementary and highlights from the ribbon cutting ceremony.
The new Bensley Elementary will accommodate up to 1,000 students in kindergarten through fifth grade; the old building’s program capacity was 575 students. The new school is part of a community facilities bond plan approved by Chesterfield County voters in 2022.
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Explore career opportunities in Chesterfield and join our team of dedicated professionals in Government and Public Schools—apply today to shape our community’s future.
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Discover who represents you in Chesterfield and learn more about your magisterial district to stay connected and informed.
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