CONNIE DALTON
Tappahannock Planning Commission members who attended last week’s business meeting were surprised to learn that Zoning Administrator/ Community Development Director Connie Dalton will be leaving her post at the end of the fiscal year.
Dalton’s last day of employment here is June 30.
She informed the commissioners in attendance at the May 1 meeting that she “received notification that my position is not funded in next year’s budget. I wanted to share that with you because I work so closely with you. This is public knowledge and there is a bit of a push to finish up some of the things that we have started.”
“You’ve been a great commission,” Dalton continued.
“I know you guys will continue to make a difference in the town. You recognize the changes that need to be made and are willing to make them. Thank you for your dedication and commitment.”
Tappahannock Town Manager Eric Pollitt told the Rappahannock Times that a newly created position of assistant town manager will be charged with the duties that Dalton held. Pollitt said the position has been advertised and he hopes to have the role filled by July.
Meanwhile, commissioners voiced their concerns about Dalton’s departure.
“I’m so sorry to hear this,” said vice chair Dianna Carneal.
“This is very disconcerting,” added commissioner Elaine Hilowitz.
Holding up a draft comprehensive land use plan, commissioner Maria Pitts remarked, “This is evidence that your position is needed. You have really guided his commission to make important decisions. Without your direction, we would not be able to do our jobs well. I feel like we are taking two steps back after taking a step forward.”
“You have gone above and beyond supplying us with information so we can make informed decisions,” Hilowitz added.
Commission Chairman Tim Bradshaw and Commissioner David Hammond were not in attendance.
Dalton came to Tappahannock in September 2022 following a six-year stint with the Prince William County Planning Office.
A Texas native, Dalton worked for the City of Arlington, Texas and after moving to Virginia she held posts in civil engineering and commercial development.
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