Chenoa Richardson Davis, an incumbent and vice chair of the Halifax County Board of Commissioners, is seeking re-election.

The following are her answers to questions submitted by rrspin:

Why are you seeking this office, or why are you running for re-election?

I am running for re-election to finish the important work we've started for Halifax County. I aim to see our new schools completed and a modern detention center underway, improving both safety and opportunity. My priorities include county wide broadband access and strengthening the county recreation department for all ages. This term is also dedicated to my late husband, Tony Davis, whose battle with pancreatic cancer highlighted rural healthcare challenges. I am committed to advancing programs and partnerships that bring quality medical care to Halifax County, ensuring seniors and families receive treatment locally. My goal is simply to keep working hard for the community

Why do you believe you are qualified to serve as a Halifax County Commissioner?

I believe I am qualified to continue serving as a Halifax County Commissioner because I have built strong relationships with people across our county, and I continue working to strengthen those connections. Citizens know that I work hard, stay dedicated, and ask thoughtful questions before making decisions. I listen, take the time to understand the issues, and stand firm when I believe a decision is best for Halifax County, even when I must stand alone. I am not in this for recognition or fame. I am here because I truly care about our community and want to serve its people. My goal is to do what is best for all of Halifax County and every citizen who calls it home. I will continue serving with honesty, courage, and accountability.

What do you consider the most critical issues facing Halifax County, and what specific solutions do you propose to address them?

One of the most critical issues facing Halifax County is the condition and reach of our water and sewer infrastructure. My experience during the 2026 water crisis made it clear just how important reliable infrastructure is to the health of our communities, our quality of life, and our ability to attract economic growth.

We recently learned that there are gaps in our county water lines, leaving some citizens unable to connect to county water even though they do not have access to safe, drinkable water. We need a clear plan to reach these citizens in phases, beginning with the areas of greatest need. I will work with state and federal agencies to identify grants and other resources that can help fund this expansion without placing the full burden on local taxpayers.

At the same time, we must spend wisely, make long-term repairs instead of relying on temporary fixes, and build partnerships with neighboring counties and municipalities where cooperation can improve service and lower costs. I am committed to practical solutions that protect public health, support economic development, and create a more stable future for every Halifax County community.

Do you support aggregate mining operations in Halifax County? Please elaborate on your position regarding local zoning, environmental considerations, and community impact.

No, I do not support mining in Halifax County, however if aggregate mining comes to Halifax County, it must be in an area that is properly zoned for this type of industry. It must also follow our comprehensive land use plan and not hinder other economic growth. Any proposed site must be carefully reviewed to make sure it will not harm the environment or negatively affect nearby residents. This review should consider water and air quality, dust, noise, traffic, roads, homes, and farms. Residents should also have a chance to share their concerns before a decision is made. In any economic project I will consider all local, state, and federal rules and protect the health, safety, property, and quality of life of our citizens.

What are your thoughts on data center development in Halifax County? Do you support a temporary moratorium, and during that window, what specific provisions would you require in a community benefits agreement and local zoning regulations?

I support responsible data center development that benefits Halifax County. I also support a temporary moratorium so the county can put strong protections in place before approving additional projects. Data centers can strengthen our tax base, help keep property taxes stable for working families and seniors, and provide more funding for schools, emergency services, and county programs.  

If elected or re-elected, what specific initiatives do you envision taking to help Halifax County grow its economy and expand the local tax base?

If re-elected, I will focus on the infrastructure Halifax County needs to grow its economy and expand its tax base. Reliable water and sewer systems are essential for public health, a strong quality of life, and attracting new businesses and industries. Expanding reliable broadband throughout the county will remain a priority because residents, schools, healthcare providers, farms, and businesses need dependable internet access. I will continue working with my fellow commissioners, our county economic developer, the Economic Advisory Board, Halifax Horizon, and the Tourism Board to remain focused on improving and expanding water and sewer infrastructure along the I-95 corridor and at its exits.  By making practical investments in water, sewer, and broadband, we can support existing businesses, attract new development, preserve our quality of life, and create greater stability and opportunity for future generations. 

Over the past year, utility contractors have struck county water lines, causing significant service disruptions. How should the county hold these private contractors more accountable, and what enforcement or oversight measures would you pursue?

The county must hold contractors accountable before work begins, not only after a water line is damaged. I would require a face-to-face preconstruction meeting with the county utilities director, the contractor, all subcontractors, and the project lead responsible for the installation. During that meeting, the team should review county water-line maps, mark utility locations, confirm the work plan, and establish clear points of contact. I would also work with the state utilities department to develop policies requiring contractors and subcontractors to be properly vetted, trained, and certified before working near county water lines. Follow-up meetings and inspections should be required throughout the project. Contractors that damage county lines through negligence should pay repair and service-restoration costs and face penalties, suspension, or loss of eligibility for future county work. These steps would improve communication, protect our water system, and reduce service disruptions for citizens.

What is your position on establishing a regional water system? What specific goals would you like to see accomplished, and which neighboring counties or municipalities should participate?

Reliable water is a basic necessity, and I support exploring a regional water system that improves service without placing an unfair burden on residents. We should begin with a complete assessment of our current system to identify aging pipes, service gaps, water-capacity needs, and the most urgent repairs. That information should guide a long-term plan to modernize our infrastructure, reduce water loss, improve emergency backup capacity, and extend reliable service to underserved areas.

I believe regional partnerships can help us share resources, strengthen reliability, and lower costs. Halifax County should invite Northampton County, Warren County, the Roanoke Rapids Sanitary District, and neighboring Virginia counties, to participate. We should also consider municipalities that use connected water sources, have shared service needs, or can contribute treatment capacity and emergency support. Any partnership must have clear costs, responsibilities, service standards, and accountability for every participant. Protecting our water supply protects public health, property values, and economic growth, and I will make these needs a priority through practical planning and a clear, long-term vision.