By Heather Michon
Editor
The Fluvanna County Board of Supervisors began its Feb. 4 meeting with a standing ovation and a formal proclamation honoring longtime Commissioner of the Revenue Mel Sheridan, marking the close of a public-service career that stretched more than three decades.
The proclamation recognized Sheridan’s tenure from January 1994 through December 2025, first as Columbia District supervisor and later as commissioner. He served 10 years on the Board of Supervisors before being elected commissioner in 2004, a role he held for 22 years.
Sheridan announced his retirement in the summer of 2025. In November, Deputy Commissioner of the Revenue Lauren Ryalls Sheridan won a special election to complete the remainder of his term.
Speaking to the board, Sheridan said the path that brought him back home to serve the county wasn’t something he could have predicted when he left the military.
“So I finished in ’98, and I had no clue what I was going to do,” he said, later adding that he “found my way into the commissioner’s office”.
Despite describing the work as sometimes grueling, he said serving had always felt worthwhile.
“The 10 years on the Board of Supervisors … lots of bumps in the road, but you feel like you’re contributing,” he said.
Looking back, Sheridan highlighted one decision from his time on the board that he believes will outlast them all: the purchase of Pleasant Grove Park.
“I thought that it was a significant achievement — it was being a part of the purchase of Pleasant Grove,” he said.
Recalling the scale and price of the acquisition, he added, “I’d like to see another 996 acres for about $1,043,000. I think in 100 years from now, Pleasant Grove will still be considered a good county asset.”
He also credited the people behind the scenes, saying the office’s success depended on staff.
“I’ve met, worked with, and became family with some of the most dedicated people,” Sheridan said. “And I can tell you, the best thing I ever did was hire them”.
Supervisors praised Sheridan’s institutional knowledge, professionalism, and steady leadership, presenting him with a plaque before transitioning to the evening’s regular agenda.
After years of numbers, deadlines, and tax seasons, Sheridan told the room he’s ready for a slower pace.
“I’m looking forward to the next chapter,” he said with a smile.
