CLINTWOOD, Va. — The Dickenson County Board of Supervisors tackled ongoing public utility challenges and authorized new performance-based incentives for local emergency medical technicians during its recent April meeting.
The meeting was highlighted by a public comment from Nathan Edwards, who represented 10 families residing on Crooked Branch struggling with severely low-to-nonexistent water pressure. Edwards stated that the issue has worsened since October, leaving residents unable to perform basic household tasks.
According to Edwards, the county Public Service Authority indicated that a Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV) holds back pressure to protect the main pipeline at Sandlick, which operates at a Maximum Allowable Operating Pressure of 250 psig. While installing an additional PRV further down the line could safely increase pressure for Crooked Branch residents, the PSA previously estimated the project could cost up to $95,000 — funds the authority currently lacks.
Local officials and engineers discussed pursuing financial assistance through the Coalfield Water and Wastewater Fund via the Cumberland Plateau Planning District Commission. The proposed grant would fund a comprehensive hydraulic system model to identify structural deficiencies and pave the way for capital improvement funds to install the necessary equipment. The board agreed to coordinate with PSA Director Dennis Baker to expedite a grant application.
In other action, the board approved a revised funding structure for local rescue squad personnel seeking EMT certification.
To address recruiting shortages across the county’s volunteer agencies — including Haysi, Clintwood, and Sandy Ridge — the board agreed to cover the $750 tuition for a local EMT class starting May 9. However, citing a historically low pass rate for the rigorous exam, the board instituted strict performance requirements. The county will reimburse the rescue agencies for up to two candidates per squad only after the individuals successfully pass the certification exam. Additionally, the newly certified EMTs must sign an agreement to serve a local agency for a minimum of 24 hours per month for one full year.
Other Business:
- Septic Regulations: Board members voiced frustration over strict state regulations regarding septic system installations. Officials noted that the health department currently has only 26 open applications, arguing that Richmond-based topography rules are disproportionately expensive and restrictive for rural development in Southwest Virginia.
- Litter Control: The county’s litter control program reported a highly active month, collecting 581 bags of trash across local roadways.
- Audit Engagement: The board unanimously approved the 2026 audit engagement letter with Robinson, Farmer, Cox Associates to perform the annual audit for the county, school board, Department of Social Services, behavioral health, and the PSA.
