Albemarle BZA discusses modest budget boost, alternates and application problems ahead of January budget cycle

Board members at the Albemarle County Board of Zoning Appeals used their Dec. 2 meeting to press two administrative priorities before the county budget cycle: securing funds for alternate members and ensuring the application process is clear to applicants and staff.

The zoning administrator said the proposed FY 2026‑27 budget includes a $1,000 increase to the BZA legal counsel line, bringing the item to $6,000, and noted the county’s budget process will start in January when finance makes recommendations. "It's kind of a hurry up and wait scenario," the zoning administrator said about when details will be finalized.

Several board members urged approaching the Board of Supervisors to explain the BZA’s work to two incoming supervisors and to request modest funding for alternates, citing the per‑meeting stipend (about $85) and the value of a full panel for public hearings. One member volunteered to speak at a supervisors’ meeting during the three‑minute public‑comment period.

Members also raised concerns about the county’s nearly year‑old online filing system after appellant counsel said a staff member had helped the owner submit the appeal. Board members asked staff to consider an affidavit or other mechanism to document when staff assist an applicant so late or ambiguous submissions are not treated as unfiled.

County staff acknowledged ongoing adjustments to the online system and said they will continue to refine processes. The board did not take a final vote on a formal request to supervisors at the Dec. 2 meeting but instructed members to prepare for outreach and budget presentations in January.