Editor, The Smithfield Times:

The recent decision by the Isle of Wight County Board of Supervisors to nominate Mr. Thomas Distefano for the vacant District 2 seat raises serious concerns about transparency and fairness.

Virginia law requires the board to publicly announce candidates at least seven days prior to voting, yet it appears this decision was made behind closed doors, potentially violating the spirit — if not the letter — of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).

Even before the public had a chance to express interest, rumors swirled that Distefano was already the chosen candidate. This suggests that the board was more focused on selecting someone who aligned with the late Supervisor McCarty rather than considering a diverse pool of candidates who truly represent the constituents of District 2. While Distefano’s prior appointment to the Planning Commission by McCarty in 2019 may be a coincidence, it raises the question: Was this process ever truly open to others?

Supervisor Renee Rountree stated that the board sought someone with experience and familiarity with local government, but it’s difficult to believe that all interested candidates had a fair shot. The process reportedly involved individual board members reaching out privately to select candidates rather than conducting a transparent, collective interview process. This is not how democratic appointments should work. Additionally, the claim that the board received “unsolicited nominations” implies that only pre-selected individuals were ever seriously considered. Public service should be open to all qualified citizens, not just a small circle of those already known to the board.

Furthermore, comments from board members indicating they wanted someone “in lockstep” with McCarty’s vision ignore an important reality: District 2 voters may no longer want the same leadership style or priorities. This appointment should be about what the people need today, not a continuation of the past.

This seat is critical, especially as the board prepares to review the county’s 2025-26 budget, including funding for schools. With the Board of Supervisors already underfunding the school system — allocating just 29% of the budget this year, covering only one-third of what is needed — it is imperative that District 2 be represented by someone chosen through a fair and open process.

The people of Isle of Wight deserve transparency and accountability from their elected officials. This appointment process has left many questioning whether their voices were ever truly heard.

 

Renee Dial

Carrollton