In Virginia, town councils are elected city leaders charged with overseeing a local town government. They have the power to set tax rates, make zoning decisions, oversee local emergency services, and much more.

The Town of Appomattox has six Council members elected to two- to four-year terms and a separately elected mayor. There are three open Council seats this year, and five certified candidates are running for them: James J. “Jim” Boyce Sr., Jane Thomas Allen, McKinley D. Cardwell and Stephanie A. Pawelczyk. Diamond E. Lawing registered her candidacy but responded to Charlottesville Tomorrow that she is withdrawing.

Charlottesville Tomorrow designed a questionnaire for the Appomattox Town Council candidates based on about 200 responses we received to a voter survey. The candidates’ responses are below, in the order they were received. Boyce did not respond to requests to participate.

After experiencing numerous job losses over the past few decades, data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics show that Appomattox County has seen recent job growth. Tell us how you will continue to build on that growth, and what would you, as a town councilor, do to address other major economic concerns of your constituents?

Stephanie Pawelczyk: I will work with fellow council members to promote job growth by fostering local business partnerships, encouraging new investments and supporting small businesses. Together, we will prioritize workforce development programs and infrastructure improvements to attract industries like technology and manufacturing. Additionally, we will address key economic concerns such as affordable housing and support for local agriculture, ensuring that all residents benefit from sustainable growth and expanded opportunities.

McKinley D. Cardwell: Despite the significant disagreements between counties and municipalities that have been detrimental, we, Appomattox, should not fear growth. Instead, we should step up and diplomatically secure our place in the development. We are ready to preserve our small-town charm and create opportunities for city workers. We are also prepared to fill our industrial parks at subsidized rates to boost the economy. Appomattox has the potential to be both a rural retreat and an economic hub, being just 30 minutes from Lynchburg and Farmville, and conveniently located 1 hour and 30 minutes between Richmond and Roanoke.

Jane Thomas Allen: I would like to see Appomattox have incentives for new businesses as well as work with current businesses so that they will stay and grow.

James J. “Jim” Boyce Sr.: No response.

What sort of development, if any, would you like to see in Appomattox?

Pawelczyk: I would like to see balanced development in Appomattox that preserves the rich history of our town while fostering economic growth. This includes attracting small businesses, supporting local agriculture, and encouraging eco-friendly tourism to highlight our historical significance. Additionally, I’d prioritize infrastructure improvements, such as expanding broadband access, to support remote work and attract tech and manufacturing industries. Affordable housing development is also essential to ensure our residents can thrive. Overall, I envision development that enhances job opportunities and community well-being while maintaining and honoring the historical legacy of Appomattox.

Cardwell: As a council member, I am fully committed to supporting entrepreneurs 100%. My goal is to ensure the success of small businesses and demonstrate our dedication to our town. Our area is unique, steeped in history, and has a relaxed atmosphere, making it an amazing place to settle down and start a family.

Allen: I’d like to see more housing, affordable and accessible for all people. Economic development is also important in order to have growth. Appomattox is a great place to work and live.

Boyce: No response.

Central Virginia counties have commissioned studies that show climate change will have devastating effects on agriculture and flooding in the coming decades. What should the town government do to prepare?

Pawelczyk: The town should invest in sustainable infrastructure, such as improved stormwater systems, to reduce flooding risks. Supporting farmers in adopting climate-resilient practices and working with environmental agencies on conservation efforts will help safeguard agriculture. By integrating climate change into long-term planning, we can better protect our economy and environment, ensuring Appomattox is prepared for future challenges.

Cardwell: Currently, we have creeks and waterways that have been successfully maintained, and the risk of flooding is low. However, we recognize that ongoing changes, particularly in the long term, can harm our freshwater supplies. To ensure public sanitation, Appomattox needs to be prepared for ecological disasters and keep water authorities at the state and federal levels informed. We also have a farming industry outside of town where local families have created their livelihoods. It is important to focus on education and land management to ensure that their properties and income are protected in the event of climate issues.

Allen: The town has emergency/back up access to water. Keeping systems in place for emergencies is key. Having up to date systems in place is a priority.

Boyce: No response.

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

Pawelczyk: I believe local law enforcement should focus on building trust and safety within the community. While cooperation with federal agencies like Immigration and Customs Enforcement may be necessary in specific cases, it’s important that local authorities prioritize protecting public safety for all residents. Clear guidelines should be in place to ensure this collaboration doesn’t undermine community relationships or lead to fear among immigrant populations. A balanced approach, where local law enforcement maintains trust with the community while addressing legitimate legal concerns, is essential for fostering a safe and inclusive environment in Appomattox.

Cardwell: Appomattox prioritizes top-tier law enforcement, focusing on preventing trafficking and providing opportunities. We value legal immigrants and their contributions to our economy. Our sheriff and deputies are vigilant in addressing criminal operations involving trafficking, ensuring swift and fair justice. This community does not tolerate criminal activity and our law enforcement is merciless in protecting our town, especially when it harms our children. Law enforcement should work in lock step with one another and, in turn, law enforcement needs to build trust without prejudice or hesitation for the community it serves.

Allen: Appomattox has great law enforcement and works well with other agencies. I think our sheriff is transparent with his needs and priorities for our town.

Boyce: No response.

What are one or two biggest challenges you see facing the Town of Appomattox? How would you as a town councilor address them?

Pawelczyk: One of the biggest challenges facing the Town of Appomattox is balancing economic growth with preserving our town’s history. As a town councilor, I would advocate for responsible development that attracts businesses and jobs while maintaining our historical integrity through zoning and preservation efforts. Another challenge is improving infrastructure, particularly broadband access, to support local businesses and residents. I would work with state and federal agencies to secure funding for these improvements, ensuring Appomattox is equipped to thrive in a modern economy without losing its historical roots.

Cardwell: The economic decline in the Appalachian plateau region has impacted western Virginia. My goal is to ensure strength, vibrancy, and continued value for our community. Another important objective is to rebuild trust in the infrastructure planning process. Currently, residents have felt uninformed about much-needed infrastructure updates that have caused problems for local businesses and residents. In the future, the town should proactively plan for inconveniences and risks, and communicate this information to residents, aligning with the need for increased civic participation.

Allen: I see a challenge of new ideas and change impacting “it’s always been this way” type struggles. Change is good but isn’t always welcomed by everyone. I think we have to make decisions today that impact our town positively and look ahead to the future.

Boyce: No response.

More about the the Appomattox Town Council

Here are key dates and deadlines associated with this year’s election.

March 5Super Tuesday! Both Republicans and Democrats are holding primaries. 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 of the primaries. Polls will be open 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.
May 3Early voting begins for all other primary elections.
May 28Deadline to register to vote, or update an existing registration for Congressional and local primaries.
June 7 @ 5 p.m.Deadline to request your primary ballot be mailed to you for absentee voting or to vote by mail.
June 18Primary Election Day for Congressional, state and local races.
Sept. 20Early voting begins for November general election.
Nov. 5Election 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.

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