January 22, 2021

COVID Connection: Your Link to the Latest Updates
York County is actively maintaining its COVID Connection website to share with you the latest information on the virus and vaccines. The page has a new look and improved navigation with links to regional messaging, Virginia Department of Health (VDH) local registration and contact information, and more. Check back often for regular updates.

Many members of the public have expressed their frustration over the vaccine rollout and we share their frustrations! The VDH is responsible for administering the vaccination and York County is doing what it can to assist in the process. We are working with our regional partners and hospitals to identify and establish vaccination clinic sites and to register volunteers who can work these clinics once the vaccine is received. VDH-Peninsula Health District has a registration portal available for those 65 and up to sign up for notification once the vaccine is available. Also, you can register by calling (757) 594-7496. Note: Those age 75 and up are being scheduled for vaccinations due to a higher risk of infection, while those aged 65 to 74 may wait three to four weeks before they are contacted for an appointment due to current vaccine supply.

York County Utility billing has CARES Act funds available to assist those who are behind on their bills due to Covid-19. This assistance is for the sewer maintenance portion of the York County utility bill. The initial program deadlines have been extended and assistance is provided on a first come, first served basis. Certain eligibility criteria apply. Customers should email their address and explain their situation to utility@yorkcounty.gov to see if they qualify for the utility relief program. Customers may also call Utility Billing at (757) 890-3702 to speak with a staff member. Other assistance may be available for water and wastewater bills from HRSD and Newport News Waterworks. Contact information can be found on the Hampton Roads Planning District Commission website.

The Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) portal has reopened! This program provides loans to help businesses keep their workforce employed during the COVID-19 crisis. Link to the portal and information on other assistance programs are available on the Economic Development website.

Budget Development Season is Here; Meeting Dates Scheduled
Each budget season, the Board of Supervisors holds a series of meetings. The Fiscal Year 2022 meetings begin in March and are televised live on WYCG-TV (Cox 46, Verizon 38) and live-streamed. The Budget Public Hearing, during which the Board receives comments from the citizens about the proposed budget, is scheduled for April 20. Additional information is available on the Budget website. Be sure to click on the link to the FY22 Budget Process for a look at the budget priorities and important dates.

Recognize an Outstanding Youth by Nominating Them for a Scholarship Award!
Citizens are invited to help celebrate York County’s high school aged youth by nominating a deserving student for one of the County’s 2021 Outstanding Youth Award Scholarships sponsored each year by the Board of Supervisors and the Youth Commission. Nominations in the categories of Community Service, Compassion, Courage, and Overall Achievement are due at the Parks and Recreation office by 5 p.m. Friday, February 19. A $1, 000 scholarship for post high school education or vocational training will be awarded in each of these four categories. Nominees must York County residents and currently enrolled in grades 9-12 in a public, private, or homeschool. Complete details are available on the York County Youth Commission website.

Youth Basketball Clinics and Spring Soccer League Registration Now Open!

Parents! Parks & Recreation has opened registration for two youth sports programs perfect for your kids. There are spaces available in the four-week February Youth Basketball Clinics. Registration closes on January 28! Clinics are for ages 8 and under, 10 and under, 12 and under, and 14 and under. Sign up now for Spring Soccer Leagues for many age categories from 6 and under on up to 18 and under! Soccer registration ends February 19. Interested in coaching? Parents are asked to include that information on the registration form. Please note: Programs are modified to meet the Governor’s Executive Orders as well as County Guidelines and CDC recommendations. For complete details and to register, visit the Parks and Recreation website.

Your Opinion Counts! York-Poquoson 4-H Wants to Hear from You
Residents of York County and Poquoson are asked to take a short survey to help staff determine the interest level in programs for our youth. Between now and February 5, please take a few moments to sit with your child/children and fill out the survey (one for each child, please). Results will help York-Poquoson 4-H better serve you and the community!

Citizen News Weekly is compiled and published by York County Public Affairs each Friday to share news and events with our citizens and neighbors. This weekly newsletter is placed on our website and delivered directly to your inbox. Questions? Contact Gail Whittaker, Public Information Officer: (757) 890-3310 (office); (757) 817-2665 (cell); or whittgl@yorkcounty.gov.