Two candidates are vying for the District Four seat on the Orange County Board of Supervisors.

The Orange County’s Board of Supervisors has five members, each elected from one of the county’s five election districts. Members serve four-year terms. Among other duties, they are responsible for overseeing the county budget, setting tax rates, and approving zoning regulations.

There are two candidates running in District 4. Robert Rabe II is challenging incumbent Crystal Hale. Both candidates are independents. Hale is the Director of Social Services in Fauquier County while Rabe owns a local small business, Rita’s Italian Ice and Custard.

Charlottesville Tomorrow created a questionnaire for the candidates based on more than 160 responses to a voter survey. Only Rabe responded. Hale did not reply. You can use the information her campaign provided to the Virginia State Department of Elections, searchable by last name, if you would like to reach out to her yourself.

The approval of the Wilderness Crossing Development, and the creation of subdivisions on formerly agricultural lands, has raised significant debate about the future of development. As the county revisits its zoning ordinance with these and other questions in mind, what is your position on development in Orange County? And how would you go about deciding where and what to develop?

Robert Rabe II: As Orange County looks into revisiting its zoning ordinance, it’s an exciting opportunity to find that perfect balance between honoring property rights and maintaining the charming rural character that makes our community so unique! I believe in a thoughtful approach to development that safeguards individual freedoms while also ensuring that growth is both responsible and mindful of our taxpayers. Landowners must have a voice in decisions about their properties. At the same time, let’s aim for developments near existing infrastructure to minimize sprawl and protect vital services like roads, water/sewer, schools, and public safety. Preserving our farmland and open spaces truly enhances our community, showing that we can welcome new residents and businesses without compromising what we cherish most. I encourage county leaders to actively engage with residents, prioritize long-term impacts, and make clear, data-driven choices.

Crystal Hale: Did not respond.

What is your opinion on data centers in Orange County?

Rabe: Data centers play a crucial role in our expanding digital economy and the future of technology and artificial intelligence. However, any proposal to establish a data center in Orange County must be carefully and responsibly considered. Before proceeding, we must ensure that the necessary infrastructure is in place, including adequate power, water, sewer capacity, and a skilled local workforce. At this time, I do not believe that District 4 is equipped to support a data center of this scale. I am open to innovation and growth, but any development must align with the needs of our community and should not place an undue burden on taxpayers. I am willing to listen and will always prioritize the well-being of our residents.

Hale: Did not respond.

What is your opinion on solar farms in Orange County?

Rabe: The current Board of Supervisors has had meaningful discussions regarding solar industrial farms in our county. According to Code of Virginia § 55.1-1820.1, homeowners are empowered to install non-commercial solar panels on their properties, which is a personal step towards an individual’s renewable energy source. However, we must prioritize the protection and preservation of our farmland. Converting these vital lands for solar production undermines their intended agricultural use and threatens our local food sources. We must strike a balance, but I support preservation of our farmland for future generations.

Hale: Did not respond.

Like many places in Virginia, the assessed real estate values in Orange County are increasing. Do you support keeping the tax rate steady to collect more income for needed government projects? Or would you support lowering the tax rate to keep residents’ tax bills consistent?

Rabe: As property assessments rise across Orange County, we must protect residents from automatic tax increases. I do not support keeping the tax rate steady to collect more revenue. Instead, I support lowering the tax rate to keep tax bills consistent and fair. The government should focus on doing more with less, delivering essential services like public safety, infrastructure, and education efficiently, without burdening taxpayers. Like every household and small business, the County must live within its means. Rising assessments shouldn’t be a backdoor way to raise taxes. Before spending more, we should evaluate how current resources are used and eliminate waste. Tax increases should be a last resort, not the default. Fiscal responsibility, transparency, and efficiency must guide our decisions. Orange County families are already paying more for everything. Now is the time for the government to tighten its belt, not expand it.

Hale: Did not respond.

Orange County residents experienced a water crisis last year when a pump at Rapidan Service Authority’s treatment malfunctioned, dumping oil into the water supply. The incident highlighted several problems with the water authority, one of which, the agency said, was that the treatment plant needs major upgrades. As a county supervisor, would you support taking action to address this issue? If so, how?

Rabe: The water crisis caused by the Rapidan Service Authority’s treatment plant malfunction was unacceptable. It put public health at risk and revealed serious problems in how our water infrastructure is maintained and managed. As a county supervisor, I would support taking explicit, responsible action to ensure this doesn’t happen again. The RSA must be held accountable for delivering safe, reliable water—and for upgrading aging infrastructure before it fails. Emergency response plans also need to be reviewed and strengthened. Clean water is a basic necessity, not a luxury. I would demand a transparent plan from RSA outlining how and when upgrades will be made, and how costs will be controlled. Residents should not pay the price—either financially or in terms of their health—for mismanagement. This is about responsible governance: protecting the public, making informed investments, and ensuring that essential services are delivered effectively.

Hale: Did not respond.

Like many surrounding counties, Orange County might face challenges from severe weather events including heavy rainstorms and prolonged droughts that climate scientists predict will become more frequent in the future. What do you think the county’s Board of Supervisors should do to prepare?

Rabe: Orange County faces challenges from severe weather like heavy rain and droughts. While future predictions vary, the Board of Supervisors should focus on practical, evidence-based solutions to protect our community. This includes maintaining and upgrading stormwater systems to reduce flooding and ensuring a reliable water supply during dry periods. Emergency services must also be well-equipped and prepared to respond quickly. Preparation should rely on historical weather data and proven methods, not uncertain predictions. We must avoid unnecessary spending or regulations that could strain taxpayers without a clear benefit. Fiscal responsibility is key. Investments should be targeted, efficient, and transparent—improving infrastructure and readiness in ways that make a real difference. By focusing on innovative, practical planning, Orange County can protect its residents and property from weather-related risks while maintaining responsible government stewardship.

Hale: Did not respond.

What do you think about local law enforcement working with Immigration and Customs Enforcement?

Rabe: As a retired law enforcement officer, I firmly believe public safety is the highest priority. Working together with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is a key part of that mission. When local law enforcement cooperates with ICE, it helps identify and remove criminals who are in the country illegally, making our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Local police should focus on enforcing the law and protecting residents from real threats like violent offenders and repeat criminals. Partnering with ICE allows law enforcement to do just that. Of course, any cooperation must respect constitutional rights and focus strictly on public safety—not on broad immigration enforcement. When handled responsibly, this partnership enhances law enforcement efforts and upholds the rule of law, which is crucial for maintaining order in our communities.

Hale: Did not respond.

Are there any other pressing issues facing Orange County that you would like voters to be aware of?

Rabe: In District 4, I believe we are seeing increased criminal activity, including juvenile offenses and drug-related issues. To address this effectively, we must focus on prevention and proactive measures rather than just reacting to problems after they occur. Our sheriff’s office needs additional personnel, but budget constraints mean we must be strategic with existing resources. Prioritizing prevention programs—such as youth outreach and substance abuse education—can reduce crime before it starts. Strengthening community partnerships is also key to creating a safer environment. Traffic safety demands proactive enforcement and public awareness campaigns to reduce collisions and protect residents. Improving incident management and inter-agency coordination will enable a swift response when emergencies arise. By emphasizing prevention, responsible resource use, and community involvement, District 4 can maintain safety and quality of life without overextending our budget or increasing taxes.

Hale: Did not respond.

More about the candidate and issues

• Information about both candidates background and positions, from the Rapidan Register
• Information about Hale’s 2023 race for her District Four seat, in which she ran unopposed, from the 2023 Central Virginia Voter Guide
• Article about Hale’s July 2023 appointment to the board (Culpeper Star-Exponent, July 28, 2023, paywalled)
• Crystal Hale campaign finance information from the Virginia Public Access Project VPAP 
• Robert Rabe II campaign finance information from the Virginia Public Access Project VPAP

Here are key dates and deadlines in the 2025 elections

Friday, May 2, 2025	Early voting for primaries begins weekdays at local registrar’s offices.
Tuesday, May 27, 2025	Deadline to register to vote or update an existing registration for the primary election. You can still vote in the primary if you miss this deadline by registering at the polling place and casting a provisional ballot. You do not have to be a member of a political party to vote in that party’s primary election. However, you can only vote in one party’s primary election each year.
Friday, June 6, 2025, 5:00 p.m.	Deadline to apply for your ballot to be mailed to you. Requests must be received by your local registrar’s offices by 5 p.m.
Friday, June 6, 2025, 5:00 p.m.	Deadline to apply online for an absentee ballot using the Citizen Portal.
Saturday, June 7, 2025	Local voter registration offices open on Saturdays for early voting for primaries.
Saturday, June 14, 2025, 5:00 p.m.	Early voting for primaries ends at local registrar’s offices.
Tuesday, June 17, 2025	Primary Election Day!
Friday, Sept. 19 to Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025 5:00 p.m.	Check with your local registrar’s office for early in-person voting.
Friday, Oct. 24, 2025, 5:00 p.m.	Deadline to apply with your local registrar’s office for a ballot to be mailed to you.
Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2025	Election Day!

We will update this list periodically as deadlines approach or we receive new information.

Register to vote, check your registration, find your polling places and apply to vote absentee at the Virginia Department of Elections here. Remember, even if you miss registration deadlines, you can register through Election Day and vote using a provisional ballot.

Need to know if you’re eligible to vote? Here are resources from the Virginia Department of Elections.