Augusta County, VA – Carolyn Bragg, the interim South River district representative on the Augusta County Board of Supervisors, is gearing up for the November elections, vying for a full-term position. Having previously served in this capacity from 2014 to 2019 and joined the planning commission in 2020, Bragg is on a mission to address critical issues facing the county. The News Leader recently posed several questions to Bragg in anticipation of Election Day, which is set for Tuesday, November 7, with early voting already in progress. Below are the questions along with Bragg’s responses.
Q: What have been your accomplishments on the board of supervisors?
Bragg, who was appointed to fill an open seat on the Board in April, emphasized her efforts in catching up with the budget process and actively engaging with constituents to understand their concerns. She held listening sessions to gather vital input and met with department heads to grasp their needs before making crucial decisions. Over her tenure, Bragg has extended her efforts to connect with individuals in the South River District, where she played a role in resolving various issues and concerns.
Bragg proudly mentioned her support for improvements in the county’s animal shelter and expressed anticipation for the upcoming launch of a much-needed new facility. Additionally, she discussed her involvement in projects addressing drainage issues, traffic flow, and road maintenance concerns within the South River District. She underscored her past contributions to opening a public library station during her earlier tenure and ongoing efforts to enhance community services, such as hiring additional staff and launching a historical documentation project for Stuarts Draft and its surroundings.
Q: What are your priorities for another term?
In the coming four years, Augusta County faces an array of changes, opportunities, and challenges, including the construction of a new courthouse facility, the implementation of a new radio system for first responders, and the opening of a new animal shelter. The county is also in the process of updating the Comprehensive Plan and Economic Development Plan while developing a strategic plan for the fire and rescue department. Bragg acknowledged several operational needs, such as additional deputies and fire and rescue personnel. The county is also set to introduce new operating software to enhance department efficiencies.
Throughout this dynamic period, Bragg’s top priority remains making decisions that prioritize the needs and interests of the county’s citizens. This includes encouraging community engagement, attentive listening, and keeping citizens well-informed.
Q: What are the three main issues facing Augusta County in the coming years, and how would you best position the county to address these issues productively?
Mental health support and treatment for those in need take center stage as a significant local issue. Bragg stressed the necessity of a crises stabilization center, offering evaluation, stabilization, treatment, and a safe environment for those experiencing mental health crises. This facility can assist individuals until they can be transferred to a suitable treatment center. Bragg recognized that mental health concerns are multifaceted and require an array of strategies, such as community training programs, additional healthcare workers, and tailored programs for incarcerated individuals.
In conclusion, Bragg emphasized that no single solution exists for these complex issues, but the discussion and efforts toward resolution must persist.
