Tie-Breaker Needed?

Oz Bell recently contacted ESO to point out that with a four person Board of Supervisors, there is no means to resolve a tie.  There have been occasions when the the Board split 2 to 2 thereby causing the motion to fail.  (In keeping with ESO policy, Mrs. Bell permitted her name to be published.)

The Code of Virginia, 15.2-1421,  provides for the election of a tie-breaker as an at-large position who would only vote in the event of a tie.  It appears that the Board of Supervisors would have to initiate the establishment of a Tie-Breaker elected position.

There are several questions that would have to be researched.  Does the General Assembly have to enact legislation to permit Essex County to establish the position?  Would the position be compensated?  What amount?  Do the voters in Essex County want to establish a new position?

Let ESO know your opinion.  More importantly, contact the Supervisor for your district and let them know your opinion.

John Clickener