The Town Council of Afton convened on June 17, 2025, to discuss various community developments and updates.

Lisa Grimsley, the newly appointed Director of Tourism, presented the budget for 2024-2025, outlining total expenditures of $164,910. She highlighted the upcoming Freedom Festival, noting that 42 vendors have already registered and that the event flyer will be finalized the following day. “Everything is coming together very well,” Grimsley affirmed, receiving enthusiastic support from Town Administrator Violet Sanderson.

Afton Fire Chief Cody Wilkes reported that the department has welcomed four new members and that the crew voted to retain him as chief for another two years, along with the second chief continuing in his role. He also announced the arrival of their new fire truck, which will enhance the department’s capabilities. Over the past year, the department responded to 41 calls, including fire incidents, brush fires, and lift assists. Following their annual conference, where they received various awards, they are preparing to assist with the upcoming Fourth of July fireworks celebration.

Public Works Director JR Nield shared significant improvements to local sports fields, noting that all five fields now have a new, smoothed top coat for enhanced safety. He mentioned that all fire hydrants in Rockbridge have been repainted red for uniformity, and that the final parade barricades have arrived in preparation for the Fourth of July. Council Member Dirk Hillyard noted positive feedback from residents regarding the new fields, and improvements have also been made to parking safety at Star View Park by clearing space off the road.

Utility Department Director Josh Pealver reported a sewer overflow incident that occurred on April 20 due to a blockage of trash, leading to a sanitary sewer overflow at the lagoons. Crews quickly responded by removing the manhole cover to address the issue, and over the following week and a half, clean-up efforts were undertaken, including re-grading the hay field. The site was inspected by the DEQ, and additional clean-up measures were implemented. Unfortunately, the incident occurred again on June 10, prompting more precautionary actions to prevent future occurrences.

The council approved Lisa Grimsley as the Tourism Director, as well as the appointments of Garren Stauffer as Judge and Rod Jensen as Provisional Judge. Council members expressed gratitude for Rod’s contributions.

The next town council meeting will be held on July 8, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. at the Afton Town Hall.