The Simply Shenandoah project (SUP‑19‑01) affects land use, power, water resources, emergency services, road infrastructure, and the long‑term character of our community. At the Forest Colony Association meeting on March 11, 2026, residents unanimously agreed that full access to the public record is necessary to understand how the project has changed from the 2019 baseline plan, through the 2022 update, to the advertised 2025 version.
To support transparency and equal access to information, a Virginia Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was submitted on February 25, 2026. Further, the County Board was informed that presentient fee‑waiver questions were not answered, I would proceed with a community fundraiser so that cost would not limit public access. Those questions have not been answered, so moving forward as previously communicated.
FOIA Cost Estimate: $1,930.73
Shenandoah County issued a cost estimate of $1,930.73 to fulfill the FOIA request. The estimate includes hours billed by:
-County Administrator
-Deputy County Administrator
-Director of Community Development
-Executive Assistant
-Community Development Technician
-Fire Marshal
-Network Administrator
The County described the estimate as an “approximate calculation” and stated that no more detailed breakdown exists. The estimate does not identify how many records, emails, or documents are involved.
FOIA Council Clarification
On March 11, 2026, the Virginia FOIA Council issued an advisory opinion confirming that:
-Public bodies may reduce or waive FOIA fees.
-Public benefit may be considered when evaluating fees.
-FOIA processing is generally clerical in nature.
-Use of high‑level staff must be reasonable and justified.
-Charges must reflect actual cost.
This differs from the County’s earlier written statement that no waiver was available. Requested clarification from the County last Thursday, and no response has been provided.
Why I’m Raising Funds
The cost is significant, and these records are important for informed community understanding. Cost should not be a barrier to public access.
Commitment to Transparency
-All documents received will be posted publicly at:
-Updates will also be shared on the Forest Colony Facebook page.