8-22-2026 2:36pm

Spotsylvania Board to Choose Interim Chancellor Supervisor

John Williams Editor

Spotsylvania County Government

Appointment Will Fill Vacancy Until March Special Election

The Spotsylvania County Board of Supervisors will appoint an interim representative for the Chancellor District after Supervisor Gerald Childress resigned effective Aug. 6.

The appointment will be made by the six remaining supervisors, not by voters in a countywide or district election. The interim supervisor will serve until voters choose a successor in a special election scheduled for March 16, 2027.

According to the county’s vacancy notice, qualified voters who live in the Chancellor District were eligible to apply. Applications were due by 4:25 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 18. (Facebook)

Eligibility and Public Information

Applicants must be qualified voters of the Chancellor District. They were asked to submit resumes and information supporting their candidacy.

The county’s process calls for applicants’ names and submitted materials to be made available for public review before the Board makes its appointment. (Fredericksburg Free Press)

The materials are expected to provide information about the applicants’ professional experience, community involvement and qualifications.

Appointment Deadline

Virginia law gives the remaining members of the Board 45 days from the date of the vacancy to appoint someone to fill the seat.

Because Childress’ resignation took effect Aug. 6, the Board must act within that statutory period. The appointment will restore representation for the Chancellor District while the special-election process moves forward.

Special Election Will Determine the Remainder of the Term

The interim appointment will not determine who serves the remainder of Childress’ term.

Spotsylvania has scheduled a special election for March 16, 2027. The winner will serve the remainder of the term, which expires Dec. 31, 2027. (Fredericksburg Free Press)

Chancellor District voters will participate in that election. They do not vote on the interim appointment.

Board Will Review Applicants and Vote

The Board is expected to review the applications and vote on an appointment at a public meeting. The six sitting supervisors will make the decision.

The interim supervisor will have the same voting authority as other Board members and will participate in decisions involving the county budget, schools, transportation, development, public safety, taxes and other county matters.

The county is also considering major development issues, including proposals involving data centers. The appointed supervisor will take part in those discussions and votes during the interim period.

What Residents Can Expect

The next steps include the release of the applicants’ names and application materials, public consideration of the candidates and a Board vote.

The county currently lists the Chancellor District supervisor position as vacant. (Spotsylvania County)

The appointment will provide temporary representation, but the March 16, 2027, special election will determine who serves the remainder of the term.

The Spotsylvania Gazette will continue to report on the applicants, the Board’s meeting schedule and the appointment decision.