Urbanna Board of Zoning Appeals
Agenda Item Summary

July 23, 2026 Work Session
J Agenda Item: 8 – Work Session Matters
8.a. Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) – Volunteer Interest Form to Fill Vacancy

Background:
Martha J. Lowe has resigned from the Town of Urbanna Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) following her appointment to Town Council; under the Code of Virginia § 15.2-2308 a BZA member may not simultaneously hold another public office in the Town, which created this vacancy. The Town is now seeking a resident volunteer to fill the seat.

Term:
The vacant seat’s current term expires August 31, 2026. Under § 15.2-2308, a person appointed to a vacancy serves only the remainder of the unexpired term; the appointee is then eligible to be recommended for the full succeeding five-year term (September 1, 2026 – August 31, 2031). BZA members serve staggered five-year terms and are appointed by the Circuit Court of Middlesex County upon the recommendation of Town Council.

Role:
The BZA is a five-member, quasi-judicial citizen board. It hears and decides appeals from determinations of the Zoning Administrator, considers applications for variances from the strict terms of the Zoning Ordinance, and decides certain special exceptions and map interpretations — giving residents a fair, local avenue to resolve zoning matters. The board meets on an as-needed basis when appeals or applications are filed, so the time commitment is modest.

Why serve:
This is a meaningful way to give back to the community. Members help ensure the Town’s zoning rules are applied fairly and consistently, protecting both individual property rights and the character of Urbanna’s neighborhoods. No special professional background is required — only residency within the Town limits and a willingness to weigh each matter impartially.

How to apply:
The BZA Member Interest & Registration Form will be available on the Town’s website and in hard copy at the Town Office, 300 Virginia Street, during regular business hours. Completed forms are due by Friday, August 14, 2026 at 4:00 PM.

Fiscal Impact: None

BZA Member Interest & Registration Form