DELIVER TO: Postal Patron Mechanicsville, VA 23111
Vol. 35, No. 33 | Richmond Suburban News | December 26, 2018
STOPS AT EVERY HOME IN TOWN
TOP 10 STORIES OF 2018 Government, education, public safety and growth dominated news By Melody Kinser Managing Editor axes, education, public safety, and development took center stage in Hanover County this year in a review of the stories that had the most influence on residents. No. 1 -- The 2019 Hanover County budget did not include a tax hike when County Administrator Cecil R. “Rhu” Harris Jr. told the Hanover County Board of Supervisors in February that the 81 cents per $100 of assessed value for the real estate tax rate would conRHU HARRIS tinue. He did note an increase in expenditures and demand for services. More funding was needed for the Community Services Board and Social
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Services due to a decrease in the state’s share, as well as increased educational demands for dollars in addition to smaller contributions from the Commonwealth. Harris’ budget proposal was $463.1 million, which represented an increase of $22.5
1.......................No tax increases 2......................School tech plan 3...............................Comp Plan 4.......................Ashland council 5..............................MRMC at 20 6.................Bear Island reopens 7...............Tomato Festival at 40 8....................Atlee Station work 9........................U.S. 33 projects 10..................Theatre reopening
million or 5.1 percent from the previous cycle. Education received the biggest portion – about 41 percent – with the county providing $6.5 million more than the previous year to satisfy those needs. Harris also said that $3.9 million had been reserved for salary increases
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Prsrt. Standard U.S. POSTAGE PAID Mechanicsville, VA Permit No.141
see TOP 10, pg. 8
Ruritans recognize Hall for community service Staff Report news@mechlocal.com MECHANICSVILLE – The name Otis Hall is synonymous with community service and, because of his dedication and commitment, the Mechanicsville Ruritan Club honored him for many years of volunteerism and the betterment of Mechanicsville and Hanover County. Hall became a Ruritan over 50 years ago as he was working toward bring emergency services to the eastern part of the county. At that time, residents had to rely on Henrico County to respond to calls. Club members supported his efforts as he spearheaded fundraising events to build a base of operations, as well as buy two ambulances. Once he achieved those goals, he took on the responsibility of completing emergency first aid classes and training volunteers. He also manned
Tom Haynie/The Local
Otis Hall, left, was honored by the Mechanicsville Ruritan Club for his years of community service. The presentation was made by Johnny Moore, club president.
the station. His years as a Ruritan have
been filled with his ongoing see HALL, pg. 12