Governing Offices
Mayor
Terry Dalton has been a dedicated member of the Stuart, Virginia community since 1979. He purchased his home within the Town limits in 2000 and has since been deeply involved in public service. His commitment began with joining the Stuart Fire Department in 2003, where he continues to serve. From 2006 to 2010, he contributed to the Patrick County Economic Development Authority. In August 2009, he was elected to the Stuart Town Council, a position he held until his recent election as Mayor in January 2025.
Mr. Dalton’s professional background includes owning and operating a fire security business from 1993 to 2022, followed by a two-year tenure as General Manager at Wendy’s. In October 2023, he fulfilled a long term goal by purchasing the Stuart Family Restaurant.
Terry is honored to serve the Town of Stuart as the Mayor.
Statement from Mr. Dalton: “Our goals are to maintain the town budget while simultaneously expanding and welcoming new businesses to our area. Transparency in government is absolutely critical, and we wholeheartedly welcome input from our citizens.”
Council Members
The Town of Stuart is governed by a Town Council comprised of a Mayor and five Council members, all elected at-large by the Town’s residents. Each member serves a four-year, staggered term, ensuring continuity and experience within the Council.
The Council also elects a Vice Mayor from among its members, who assumes the responsibilities of conducting town meetings in the Mayor’s absence.
The Stuart Town Council plays a vital role in the administration and development of the Town, with responsibilities that include:
Ordinance Enforcement: Ensuring compliance with the Town’s ordinances to maintain a safe and orderly community.
Setting Priorities: Defining the strategic direction for town programs and services to meet the needs of the community.
Policy Development: Establishing administrative policies that guide the operation of town departments.
Budgeting and Finance: Adopting the annual town budget, appropriating necessary funds, and setting local tax rates.
The Council meets on the third Wednesday of each month at 6:00 p.m. at the Stuart Town Office. Meeting agendas and approved minutes are posted on the Stuart Town Council Meetings page.
David Hoback, Vice Mayor
David Hoback, Vice Mayor of the Town of Stuart, brings a wealth of experience in local and regional governance to the Town Council. Appointed in September 2021 to complete the remainder of Mac Deekens’ term, Mr. Hoback has been a resident of Stuart since 1985. His distinguished career includes service as the Patrick County Administrator and most recently, as the Executive Director of the West Piedmont Planning District Commission. He retired from a long and successful career in local government, business, and regional planning, making him a valuable asset to the Town of Stuart.
Statement from Mr. Hoback: “My vision for the Town of Stuart centers on strategic investments that foster the growth of our retail, commercial, and dining sectors. By supporting these businesses, we can enhance the amenities available to both Stuart residents and Patrick County citizens. Simultaneously, I am committed to ensuring the Town continues to provide efficient and cost-effective public services, minimizing the financial burden on our taxpayers.”
Rebecca Adcock
Councilwoman Rebecca Adcock’s dedication to the Town of Stuart began with her pivotal role in developing a new Farmers’ Market structure as part of the town’s revitalization plan. Recognizing the Farmers’ Market’s potential as a key economic driver, she spearheaded its marketing efforts. Utilizing approved town funds, she strategically invested in local advertisements and created promotional materials, including brochures and posters. Since 2010, her efforts have contributed to the Farmers’ Market receiving numerous accolades, including “Best Farmers’ Market” from Blue Ridge Magazine and a top ten ranking in the American Farmland Trust’s “Best Boutique Market.”
Inspired by this success, Councilwoman Adcock was elected to the Stuart Town Council in 2012 and has served diligently since. During her tenure, she has collaborated with town employees to enhance the town’s flower beds and established a valuable partnership with local Master Gardeners, who now maintain these spaces with care and dedication.
Statement from Mrs. Adcock: “Stuart is a great place to live and work and I want to help facilitate building on the forward progress the Town has made in the last few years.“
Erica Wade
Councilwoman Erica C. Wade is a lifelong resident of Patrick County and has resided within the Town of Stuart for the past ten years. Her deep-rooted connection to the community is further exemplified by her service as an EMT/firefighter with the Stuart Volunteer Fire Department. Professionally, she contributes to the legal field at the office of Christopher A. Corbett, Attorney. This combination of experience provides her with a unique understanding of the town’s needs and the resources available to address them. Councilwoman Wade is actively engaged in the community, frequently seen on Main Street during the week and enjoying local festivals, parks, and the rail trail with her family on weekends.
Statement from Mrs. Wade: “I feel incredibly fortunate to serve a community that has benefited from the insightful leadership of those who came before me, which has allowed our Town to operate so smoothly. It’s my sincere hope to continue that positive trajectory during my upcoming term, while also enhancing the growing attributes of our Downtown Revitalization project and developing Stuart into the vibrant destination we all envision and cherish.”
Jeffery Houchins
Councilman Jeffery Houchins is a veteran of the United States Army. He is married to Tracey Houchins, and they are the proud parents of two daughters, Paige and Jennifer. Mr. Houchins has a long history of dedicated service to the Stuart community. He served as a member of the Jeb Stuart Rescue Squad for 15 years and the Stuart Fire Department for 10 years. For 26 years, he coached football at Stuart Elementary, and he continued his coaching career for an additional 5 years at Patrick County High School. He also served on the Stuart Park of Recreation Board for 15 years. Currently, he is a medical transportation driver.
Statement from Mr. Houchins: “As a Council member, I want to be able to help the residents of Stuart. I also want to be a part of the town’s growth with businesses, and continue to make Stuart a beautiful place to live.”
Robert D. Pittis
Councilman Robert “Bob” D. Pittis brings a strong background in public service to the Town of Stuart. He retired from the Patrick County Sheriff’s Office in 2022 after a 20-year career, during which he served in various roles, including jailer, School Resource Officer (SRO), and with the Project Lifesaver program. He maintains his status as a sworn officer. In addition to his continued commitment to law enforcement, Mr. Pittis also works part-time as a funeral assistant at Moody Funeral Home.
Town Attorney
Town Attorney
Town of Stuart Attorney, Christopher A. Corbett
276-694-6800
Town Office Employees
Bryce Simmons, Town Manager
Misty Raines, Clerk/Treasurer
Brian Hylton, Community Coordinator
Daniel Trail, Public Works Director
Budget & Finance
The Town Council adopted the Fiscal Year 2027 Annual Budget and utility and service rates at its June 17, 2026 meeting, following public hearings. The budget documents as presented at the public hearing are available below. Rates took effect July 1, 2026; current utility rates are listed on the Utilities & Fees page.
- FY2027 Budget — Public Hearing Notice & Proposed Budget (PDF)
- FY2027 Utility Rates — Public Hearing Notice & Proposed Rates (PDF)
Property Tax & Zoning
Town of Stuart Property Taxes: The Town tax rate is 17.2 cents per $100 of assessed property value (unchanged since January 1, 2016). Real Estate & Personal Property taxes are due on December 31st.
Zoning PDFs for download