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Northumberland County Economic Development Commission
Meeting: February 17, 2026
6:00 – 8:00 PM
1. Opening of Meeting Call to Order
The meeting was called to order at approximately 6:00 p.m. A quorum was present. In attendance were Commissioners: Maurice Johnson, Melissa Carter, and Dr. Karen Pica; Staff: Drew Basye, Robert Bullard, John Kost (Planning Commission); Citizens: Ms. Wendy Berrier.
2. Agenda Review
Commissioners reviewed the meeting agenda. Motion made and seconded to approve the agenda as presented.
Vote: Approved unanimously.
3. Approval of Minutes: January 2026 Meeting
Commissioners reviewed the minutes from the January 2026 meeting. Motion made and seconded to approve the January meeting minutes.
Vote: Approved unanimously.
4. Commissioner’s Corner
a. District 1 – Vacant
b. District 2 – Vacant
c. District 3 – Ms. Carter
i. Requested an update regarding the Community Development Block Grant project in the Lively/Lancaster area.
d. District 4 – Dr. Pica
i. Inquired about the Rural Investment Collaborative grant application expected to move forward in the coming month.
ii. Noted a newspaper article regarding the Horn Harbor Marina owner discussing economic development initiatives and potential investment plans.
iii. Reported that construction has begun on the new landscaping business near the Ditchley Recycling Center.
e. District 5 – Mr. Johnson
i. Reported coordination with Sandy Maynard regarding regional initiatives for the Little Wicomico dredging effort.
ii. Noted an upcoming Virginia Marine Resources Commission (VMRC) meeting scheduled for the 24th at 9:30 a.m.
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5. Executive Director’s Report
a. Board of Supervisors Briefing
i. The Executive Director summarized the recent Board of Supervisors briefing.
ii. The Board of Supervisors acknowledged the need to fill vacant EDC commissioner positions.
b. Poor House Tract / Dodlyt Road Discussion
i. The Board discussed the future of the Poor House Tract property.
ii. The Executive Director stated that the EDC is not yet at the stage of engaging real estate professionals or considering sale of the property.
iii. Current efforts remain focused on analysis and evaluation of potential development options.
c. Career Fair Coordination
i. Planning is underway for the Northumberland High School Career Fair.
ii. Tentative dates include the week of March 23 or the week of April 6.
iii. Discussion included expanding participation from county emergency services to highlight workforce opportunities.
d. MapHub / Do.Stay.Eat Map
i. An invoicing option has been identified, and coordination continues with county staff regarding payment procedures.
e. FY2027 Budget
i. The FY2027 EDC budget submission has been completed and submitted.
ii. The MapHub expense approved by the Commission has been incorporated into the budget documentation.
f. Action Items
i. Executive Director to follow up with the Board of Supervisors regarding EDC commissioner vacancies.
ii. Executive Director to coordinate with Northumberland High School on final Career Fair scheduling.
iii. Executive Director to finalize MapHub invoicing and payment arrangements with county administration.
6. County Administrator’s Corner
Discussion referenced the Little Wicomico River dredging project and coordination with regional partners and VMRC.
7. Planning Commission
a. Discussed how Callao is interested in installing a cell tower.
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b. Discussed animal shelter options they are exploring.
8. New Business
No new business was introduced.
9. Citizen Engagement
Wendy Berrier, provided introduction, indicating she is building a home in Baypoint Quarter off Tranquility in Reedville and desires to be involved in the community. She has her own LLC.
10. Adjournment
The meeting was adjourned at approximately 6:33 p.m.
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