Kiggans representatives to come to Chincoteague to hear citizen concerns

At Monday night’s meeting of the Chincoteague Town Council, Town Manager Mike Tolbert reported that he was contacted last week by staff from Rep. Jen Kiggans’ office regarding the possibility of hosting mobile office hours at the Town Office. He explained that this initiative would provide constituent services for residents who may not be able to visit one of Kiggans’ district offices. Tolbert added that two or three members of her staff would be in attendance. The tentative date for the event is February 19, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., at the Town Office.

Town Manager Tolbert also provided an update on the sewer collection system project. He advised that a pre-construction meeting was held on January 27 and that the contractor has 150 days to complete the work, with a shutdown period between Memorial Day and Labor Day. However, the contractor intends to finish the project before Memorial Day.

Chincoteague Chamber of Commerce new Executive Director Joanne Moore presented the 2024 Annual Report, outlining key statistics on economic impact, marketing expenses, outreach, engagement, membership, workforce development, off-season events, achievements, grants, and the 2025 Visitor Guide and outlook. She also announced that a photo of the Chincoteague Pony Swim will be featured in the summer edition of the Virginia Tourism Guide. Moore expressed gratitude to Mayor Bowden, the Town Council, members, partners, and volunteers for their ongoing support in fostering economic growth on the island.

The meeting also highlighted the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge remains one of the most visited in the nation, attracting approximately 1.5 million visitors annually.