Board approves Anderson & Sons grant performance agreement; denies audit exemption for Old Glade Tractor Association

The board considered two separate items affecting local nonprofits and economic development on Sept. 24.

Anderson & Sons meat processing: staff presented a county performance agreement and the Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission grant agreement to channel a $141,377 grant to Anderson & Sons for equipment upgrades to expand processing capacity, with the goal of supporting farm‑to‑school purchases. Staff said the county would act as a conduit, with the company bound by the Tobacco Commission agreement. The board approved the agreements and authorized the chairman to sign.

Old Glade Antique Tractor Association: the association requested a one‑time waiver of the county bylaw that requires a nonprofit receiving more than $15,000 in county funds to provide an audit or review. The Old Glade group received a one‑time $25,000 allocation to pay for a roof on a building. Supervisors debated the cost burden of audits and the different scopes of an audit vs. a review; staff noted that the bylaws allow a review (a narrower scope and generally less costly) as an alternative to a full audit. Board members proposed options—identifying lower‑cost reviewers, soliciting a list of firms willing to assist nonprofits, or referring colleges for assistance—but many argued the county must ensure accountability for taxpayer funds. The motion to deny the exemption passed (vote recorded as 6-0 with one abstention noted by the member who volunteered with the organization). Staff agreed to follow up with guidance for the nonprofit on review vs. audit options.

Why it matters: the Anderson & Sons approval supports a local processing business and farm‑to‑school supply; the Old Glade decision enforces county audit/review requirements designed to protect taxpayer dollars while staff explores ways to reduce nonprofit compliance costs.

Next steps: staff will provide Old Glade with the list of audit/review firms and clarify review vs. audit expectations; staff will execute agreements related to Anderson & Sons per the board authorization.