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February 2026 CB ConnectorWelcome to our monthly digital magazine! The Colonial Beach Connector is the Town’s official newsletter. |
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| REMINDERTown Offices will be closed: Monday, February 16 for George Washington Day
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February often serves as a quieter moment between the pace of the holidays and the energy of spring, but it is an important time for reflection and preparation here in Colonial Beach.
Over the past several weeks, staff and Council have been working thoughtfully to position the Town for the year ahead. Our recent strategic planning discussions focused on priorities, capacity, and how best to align our limited resources with the projects and services that matter most to our community. Those conversations help ensure we remain focused on long-term goals while continuing to meet the day-to-day needs of residents and visitors alike.
You’ll continue to see progress on infrastructure and capital projects throughout the year, as well as ongoing efforts to strengthen financial planning, improve internal coordination, and support our dedicated staff. Behind the scenes, we are hard at work. While much of this work isn’t always visible, it focuses on maintaining services, responding to issues, and keeping Colonial Beach moving forward.
February is also a reminder that strong communities are built on relationships. Whether it’s collaboration between departments, partnerships with regional agencies, or engagement with residents and local organizations, connection remains at the heart of everything we do.
As always, thank you for your continued involvement, and pride in our Town. I look forward to the months ahead and to working together to make 2026 another successful year for Colonial Beach.
Warmest wishes,
Natasha Tucker, MBA/JD Town Manager |
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Dear Residents of Colonial Beach,
The Town of Colonial Beach has recently been recognized with the Government Finance Officers Association’s (GFOA) Distinguished Budget Presentation Award. This national honor reflects the dedication of our staff and Town Council in preparing a budget that meets high standards for transparency, clarity, and financial planning. It demonstrates our commitment to presenting financial information in a clear and accessible manner to the public.
Along with this recognition, I want to clarify an important aspect of the Town’s financial oversight. Under the Code of Virginia, local governments are required to hire an independent public accounting firm to perform an annual audit. This is not optional. The Town of Colonial Beach undergoes this independent audit every year, as required by law.
I am pleased to report that the Town’s most recent audit was completed with no findings. These audits provide a detailed, independent review of the Town’s financial records and internal controls. All completed audits are publicly available for anyone who wishes to review them and can be found here: Town Financial Audits
We encourage residents to review these reports, stay engaged, and reach out to the Town directly if they have any questions. The Town takes its responsibility for managing public funds seriously and remains committed to accountability and sound financial practices.
Thank you,
Kyler Brower, MPA
Assistant Town Manager |
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| |  Tuesday, February 10
Community Board Game Nights (every 2nd Tuesday) 6:00 - 8:00 PM Colonial Beach Community Center - 717 Marshall Ave. In February we’ll bring back “Black History Jeopardy” in addition to relaxed board game playing with friends. Play available board games or bring your own. Bring personal snacks or snacks to share! Kids, 13 and under, please bring your adult.😉 |
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|  Friday, February 13
Coffee Walk Meet at 8:00 AM Colonial Buzz - 215 Washington Ave. Get together for casual walking with coffee & friends. |
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| Workshop: Composting Household Waste
Saturday, February 7 | 11:00 AM–Noon
(rain date: 2/21/26)
 Hosted by CB Greenspace & Colonial Beach Parks, Recreation, & Events in the Colonial Beach Community Garden - 320 Washington Ave. Moving to 215 Washington Ave. (Colonial Buzz) in case of inclement weather.
The workshop will be taught by Organic Farmer, Therese Wolf and Certified Urban Agriculturist, Patricia Neleski. |
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A Sweet Afternoon: Meet a Chocolatier! 🍫
Saturday, February 7 | 12:00–1:30 PM
 Hosted by Parks, Recreation, & Events at the Colonial Beach Community Center 717 Marshall Ave. Come for a delicious afternoon with chocolatier Jeanne-Louise Womble.
Jeanne-Louise will share a brief history of chocolate from Aztec cacao bean “coffee” to modern French chocolat. Jeanne-Louise tells stories from her days as a chocolatier, complete with props and photos. The event concludes with a not-to-be-missed chocolate-tasting.
Cost: $5 per person
Space is limited to 20 participants
Payment: Pay at the door (cash only)
Reservations required.
To reserve your spot, email sadams@colonialbeachva.gov or call/text 804-761-4044.
If you reserve a spot and later find you cannot attend, please let Sally know so another chocolate lover can take your place. |
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Colonial Beach Police Officers Recognized for Life-Saving Actions
The Colonial Beach Police Department is proud to recognize Officer Romias and Officer Aaron for their heroic actions in saving a child’s life. The officers were recently honored for their quick response and effective use of CPR, actions that made a critical difference in an emergency situation.
Their professionalism, training, and calm decision-making under pressure exemplify the highest standards of public service and reflect the department’s ongoing commitment to the safety and well-being of the Colonial Beach community.
Officer Romias, Chief Parsons, and Officer Aaron |
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| Neighborhood Watch
Neighborhood Watch meetings are held on the 4th Thursday of each month in the Police Department conference room inside the Truist Bank building at 416 Colonial Avenue in Colonial Beach. This month’s meeting is February 26. |
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| From the
💧 Payment Options for Your Utility Bill: Did you know? You can choose to pay your utility bill monthly or quarterly! - Monthly: Pay $128.62 each month - Quarterly: Pay $385.86 every 3 months 📅 2026 Quarterly bills are due: April 1, July 1, and October 1.
If you have questions or need help with payment options, we are here for you. If you are experiencing financial difficulties, please contact the Finance Department to arrange payment options 804-224-7183. Make your payments in person or by mail at 315 Douglas Ave., Colonial Beach, VA 22443, OR Pay online at our payment portal. Debit and credit card payments have a 2.95% convenience fee.
Make your payments in person or by mail 315 Douglas Ave., Colonial Beach, VA 22443
Delinquent notices are in mail for Real Estate and Personal Property. Please note, these need to be paid by February 28, 2026 to avoid additional collection efforts. Notices of unpaid Utility bills are being mailed February 6, 2026. Cut-offs will begin February 16, 2026.
If you have tried to reach the Finance Department by phone, please note that we are a small team. At times, staff may be assisting walk-in customers or helping other residents by phone. We do return all messages as quickly as possible, so please be sure to leave a detailed voicemail to help us provide the assistance you need.
Sign up for E-BILL by sending your name, property address, and a valid email address to: BILLING@COLONIALBEACHVA.GOV. Be sure to include the word “E-BILL” in the subject line. Please allow at least one billing cycle for processing. If you sign up for E-BILL, no paper bill will be mailed!If you have questions or need assistance CALL: 804-224-7183 |
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| PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT DELINQUENT PERSONAL PROPERTY TAX COLLECTIONS
The Town of Colonial Beach has partnered with Taxing Authority Consulting Services, P.C. (TACS) to assist in the collection of delinquent Personal Property taxes.
Pursuant to §58.1-3958 of the Code of Virginia, localities may impose fees to cover administrative costs and reasonable attorney’s or collection agency fees. These fees may not exceed 20% of the taxes due and are in addition to all penalties and interest.
Beginning January 1, 2026, all delinquent Personal Property tax accounts will be referred to TACS for collection. Once an account is transferred, a 20% collection fee will be added to the total amount due, as authorized by state law.
To avoid additional fees or collection actions, taxpayers are encouraged to pay any delinquent balances with the Finance Department before accounts are transferred to TACS.
For questions or to make payment arrangements, please contact: Town of Colonial Beach Finance Department 315 Douglas Avenue Colonial Beach, VA 22443 📞 (804) 224-7181 |
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| Holiday Trash Schedule
Refuse for 2/16 (George Washington Day Holiday) will be picked up on 2/17.
Yard Debris Pick-up Schedule
The next yard debris pickup will be the week of March 2. There is no yard debris pickup in February.
Reminder: Only bagged or bundled yard debris will be picked up. · Separate yard debris from normal trash · Large paper bags are preferred over plastic · Max: 4 feet long and under 40 lbs. |
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| Public Works News
Chris Ruchty and Julie Parkhurst successfully achieved their 3-Year Re-Qualification for the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) Locally Administered Project Qualification Program.
Congratulations to Chris & Julie! |
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| Fences, Walls and Hedges
To ensure safety and conformity with the Town’s Zoning Ordinance, a fence permit is required for all new fences, including those that are replacing existing fences.
Fences, walls, hedges and other structures exceeding four (4) feet in height are not permitted in front of a house. Walls, hedges and other structures may not exceed six (6) feet in height.
The location or placement of a fence, wall or hedge or other structure on a lot will not be permitted if they impair vehicular or pedestrian visibility.
The rails and posts of the fence must be on the inside of the fence with the fence facing away from the house or structure. Please call the Department of Planning & Community Development if you have questions. |
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| The Planning and Community Development office is open to the public: Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. |
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| The Colonial Beach Department of Planning & Community Development has the responsibility of guiding and facilitating the Town’s long and short-term development. This includes working with all stakeholders to develop the long-term comprehensive plan by making recommendations to efficiently and effectively guide future development for the benefit of present and future residents of the Town.
If you have questions regarding zoning rules and regulations, contact the Department of Planning & Community Development for more information or review the town’s zoning ordinances HERE. |
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| The Town of Colonial Beach Welcomes Masonn Manthey, Newest Hire with the Colonial Beach Police Department! |
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| Human Resources We Are Pleased to Feature The Recipients of Each honoree was nominated by his or her peers and by the administrative leadership team.
Laura Brewer Employee of the Year
Chris Ruchty Leadership Award
Public Works Department of the Year
Planning and Community Development Most Improved Department of the Year
James Hopkins Innovation Award
Bill Taylor Community Service Award
Andrea Mullen Wizard of Oz Award
Yvonne Smith Positivity Award
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| Walking on Ice and Snow Safety Tips
Proper Footwear Choose Insulated, Waterproof Boots: Wear boots with good ankle support and nonslip rubber soles that remain flexible in cold temperatures. Look for deep tread patterns to enhance grip on slippery surfaces. Consider Ice Cleats: For extra traction, consider using ice cleats or traction devices that can be attached to your shoes.
Walking Techniques Adopt the Penguin Walk: Take short, shuffling steps with your feet pointed slightly outward. Keep your center of gravity over your front foot and lean slightly forward for better balance. Keep Your Arms at Your Sides: This helps maintain balance. Avoid distractions: No texting while walking. Scan Your Path: Look ahead for icy patches and avoid them if possible. If you encounter a particularly slippery area, consider taking a longer route to stay safe.
General Safety Tips Take Your Time: Walk slowly and deliberately. Rushing increases the risk of slipping. Use Handrails and Support: When available, use handrails or other support to help maintain your balance. Stay Aware of Your Surroundings: Be mindful of your environment and any potential hazards, such as black ice, which can be nearly invisible. If You Fall Protect Yourself: If you do fall, try to relax your body and avoid using your arms to break the fall as this can lead to injuries. Instead, aim to land on your side or back. Assess for Injuries: After falling, take a moment to assess yourself for injuries before getting up. If you feel pain or discomfort, seek assistance.
By following these tips, you can significantly reduce your risk of injury while walking on ice and snow, ensuring a safer winter experience.
Stay cautious and prepared! |
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Human Resources
Our mission is to foster a work environment defined by fairness, open communication, personal accountability, trust, and mutual respect. We aim to deliver effective human resource management to attract and retain a qualified workforce that meets the needs of Colonial Beach while ensuring a positive experience for all employees.
If you would like to join our team, you can find open positions by clicking this link: Colonial Beach Employment |
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Colonial Beach
Economic Development Updates: Tourism, Regional Collaboration, and Grant Success
Colonial Beach Economic Development has three exciting updates to share:
First, we’ve launched a Tourism Committee dedicated to growing a sustainable tourism program and showcasing Colonial Beach as a year-round destination. The Committee is comprised of business owners who represent traditional sectors of the tourism industry: dining, lodging, attractions, entertainment and services.
Next, our Economic Development Director has been invited to serve on the Westmoreland County Economic Development Site Inventory Advisory Committee. In this role, the Director will help coordinate and prioritize potential industrial and commercial sites across the Northern Neck, including opportunities within the Town of Colonial Beach.
Finally, congratulations to the Virginia Osprey Foundation and the Colonial Beach Chamber of Commerce on their recent selection as awardees of the Virginia Tourism Corporation Special Events & Festival grants program for 2026.
For more information, contact Charlotte Cole, Director of Economic Development and Tourism at ccole@colonialbeachva.gov. |
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| Mission Statement
The Office of the Town Clerk serves the Town Council and the citizens of Colonial Beach by providing quality records control and documentation functions. As the lead communication team member for the Town, providing and disseminating accurate and timely information in a courteous fashion is the number one goal. |
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| Senior & Disabled Discount Applications for 2026 are now available.
To help seniors and residents with disabilities continue living comfortably in our community, the Town of Colonial Beach is now accepting Senior & Disabled Discount Applications for 2026.
Eligible homeowners may receive up to $600 off their real estate taxes and up to 30% off each water/sewer bill. To qualify, applicants must be full-time homeowners and residents of Colonial Beach, be age 65 or older or totally and permanently disabled, meet “HUD Very Low Income guidelines”, have assets under $100,000 (not including their home), and have no outstanding balance with the Town.
Applications are easy to access. Download one online or stop by Town Hall to pick up a paper copy. Town staff are always happy to help guide you through the process. If you or someone you know may qualify, this program is one more way Colonial Beach looks out for its neighbors.
Click Here to view and download the application or come to Town Hall at 315 Douglas Ave. weekdays between 10:00 and 4:00 to get a paper application. |
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| The Town Council Work Session is scheduled for Wednesday, February 4, 2026, 6:00 PM.
Town Council Regular Meeting Wednesday, February 18, 2026, 6:00 PM
Meetings are held at the Town Center 22 Washington Avenue, Colonial Beach, VA 22443 |
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All town meetings, unless specified, are held at the Town Center, 22 Washington Ave., Colonial Beach, Virginia 22443
The Town Council Work Session
Wednesday, February 4, 2026, 6:00 PM. ----Colonial Beach Town Meetings are open to all. Your participation in Town Government is welcome. Town Council meetings can be viewed after the meeting on YouTube or in real time on the Town’s Website: YouTube Video Channel Link |
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| Click here for past CB Connector newsletters. Click here to forward this newsletter to a friend and/or to subscribe. |
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| | Downtown Colonial Beach put our community on the map by helping the Town’s downtown area to become a Mainstreet Affiliate. Click the yellow “Mainstreet” link above to read more! |
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| U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission public service video shot in Colonial Beach: |
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| | | 10 Virginia Coastal Towns Where You Get the Most Bang for Your Buck When Buying a Home can be read by clicking the yellow “10 Virginia Coastal Towns” link above. |
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