Cumberland County Administration

09/02/2026

🌟 Employee of the Month – September 2026 🌟

Please join us in congratulating Paul Johnston, Maintenance Worker I, as Cumberland County’s September 2026 Employee of the Month!

Paul is a dedicated member of Cumberland County’s maintenance team who works hard to keep our County grounds looking their best. From cutting grass and trimming shrubbery to pulling weeds and maintaining our outdoor spaces, Paul takes pride in making sure our County facilities and grounds are clean, safe, and well-maintained.

Much of Paul’s work takes place outdoors and, often, in the heat of the summer. Despite the demanding conditions, he continues to show up, work hard, and get the job done. His willingness to take on these important tasks helps ensure that County properties remain welcoming and presentable for our citizens, visitors, and employees.

Paul’s dedication, strong work ethic, and commitment to serving Cumberland County make him a valuable member of our team. We appreciate the work he does each day—much of which happens behind the scenes—to keep our County looking its best.

Congratulations, Paul, and thank you for your hard work and dedication to Cumberland County! We are proud to recognize you as our September 2026 Employee of the Month!

08/07/2026

For Immediate Release

August 5, 2026

Contact: Tiana Branch
Deputy Clerk to the Board of Supervisors
Phone: (804) 492-3625
Email: [email protected]

Correction to Previous Public Notice Regarding Potential Rabies Exposure
CUMBERLAND, VA (August 7, 2026) – Cumberland County Animal Control is issuing the following correction to the public notice released on August 5, 2026, regarding rabies activity in the Deer Run area off Holman Mill Road.
The previous release incorrectly stated that a number of feral cats had tested positive for rabies. This information was inaccurate. At this time, the feral cats have not tested positive for rabies.
The confirmed rabies cases involve wild animals that were found in close proximity to and had contact with the feral cat population in the Deer Run area. Because of this known exposure, there is concern that the feral cats may have been exposed to the rabies virus, and Animal Control is taking appropriate precautions while working to assess and address the situation.
Cumberland County Animal Control is actively working with local and state officials to monitor the area, evaluate potential risks, and implement appropriate response measures to help protect both residents and domestic animals.
Residents are encouraged to continue taking the following precautions:
• Avoid contact with stray, feral, or wild animals.
• Ensure pets are current on their rabies vaccinations.
• Keep pets under supervision and avoid allowing them to roam freely.
• Report any animal exhibiting unusual behavior, aggression, or signs of illness to Cumberland County Animal Control immediately.
• If you or your pet has had contact with a stray, feral, or wild animal, seek medical or veterinary guidance promptly.
Cumberland County Animal Control regrets the error in the previous release and appreciates the public's understanding. Providing timely and accurate information is a priority, and we remain committed to keeping residents informed as additional information becomes available.
We thank the community for its continued cooperation as Animal Control works diligently with partnering agencies to address this matter and safeguard public health.
For questions or to report suspicious animal activity, please contact Cumberland County Animal Control.
For additional information, please contact:
Michael Davis
Lead Animal Control Officer
Cumberland County Animal Control
Phone: (804) 492-3076
Email: [email protected]

08/05/2026

For Immediate Release

August 5, 2026

Contact: Tiana Branch
Deputy Clerk to the Board of Supervisors
Phone: (804) 492-3625
Email: [email protected]

Cumberland County Animal Control Advises Public of Confirmed Rabies Cases in Feral Cats
CUMBERLAND, VA (August 5, 2026) – Cumberland County Animal Control is advising residents that on August 5, 2026, the department was notified that multiple feral cats have tested positive for rabies in the area of Deer Run, off Holman Mill Road in Cumberland County.
Animal Control is actively responding to the situation and is working closely with the appropriate local and state officials to address the issue and help protect the health and safety of the community.
Residents are urged to exercise caution and take the following precautions:
• Do not approach, feed, or attempt to handle stray or feral cats or any wild animals.
• Keep pets up to date on their rabies vaccinations and supervise them while outdoors.
• Report any animals exhibiting unusual behavior, aggression, disorientation, or signs of illness to Cumberland County Animal Control immediately.
• If you or your pet has had contact with a stray, feral, or wild animal, seek appropriate medical or veterinary attention as soon as possible.
Rabies is a serious viral disease that affects the nervous system of mammals, including humans. It is most commonly transmitted through the bite or saliva of an infected animal. Prompt reporting and appropriate medical evaluation following any potential exposure are critical.
Cumberland County Animal Control understands that this news may be concerning to residents and wants to assure the community that the department is working tirelessly with partner agencies and public health officials to resolve this matter as quickly and safely as possible.
Additional updates will be provided as more information becomes available. The cooperation of residents is greatly appreciated as Animal Control continues its response efforts.
For questions or to report suspicious animal activity, please contact Cumberland County Animal Control.
For additional information, please contact:
Michael Davis
Lead Animal Control Officer
Cumberland County Animal Control
Phone: (804) 492-3076
Email: [email protected]

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08/03/2026

Please join us in congratulating Ciera Morris, Chief Deputy Clerk of the Circuit Court, as Cumberland County's Employee of the Month!
Ciera began her career with the Cumberland County Circuit Court Clerk's Office as a Deputy Clerk in June 2021. Through her dedication and commitment to professional growth, she earned her Master Deputy Clerk certification in 2025 and was promoted to Chief Deputy Clerk in December 2025.

Ciera is known for her strong work ethic and willingness to stay busy. Her extensive knowledge of the Clerk's Office—especially the record room—makes her an invaluable resource to both her coworkers and the public. Whether assisting citizens with Clerk's Office matters or helping direct them to the appropriate county department, Ciera always goes above and beyond to ensure every visitor feels welcomed and supported.

As a graduate of Cumberland County High School and a lifelong member of the community, Ciera has a deep understanding of the people she serves. Citizens appreciate her friendly smile, approachable demeanor, and genuine desire to help. She takes great pride in her work and continues to uphold the longstanding tradition of professionalism, integrity, and public trust that defines the Clerk's Office.

Ciera exemplifies the qualities of an exceptional public servant through her dedication, compassion, and commitment to serving the citizens of Cumberland County. We are grateful for all she does and proud to recognize her as our August 2026 Employee of the Month.

Congratulations, Ciera, and thank you for your outstanding service to Cumberland County!

07/02/2026

Congratulations Billy!!!

🌟Celebrating 45 Years of Dedicated Service🌟
✨ Marion W. “Billy” Black ✨
Congratulations to Billy Black on an incredible milestone ~ 45 years of dedicated service to the Cumberland County Sheriff's Office ~
Billy began his career with the Sheriff's Office as a Dispatcher, serving the citizens of Cumberland County with professionalism and dedication. Throughout his distinguished career, he has taken on many important roles, including serving as a Magistrate for several years. His knowledge, experience, and commitment to public service have made a lasting impact on both the Sheriff's Office and the community.
Over the course of his career, Billy has faithfully served under four different Cumberland County Sheriffs, demonstrating unwavering loyalty, adaptability, and a steadfast commitment to excellence through decades of change and growth.
Today, Billy serves as Senior Administrative Staff Specialist to Sheriff Darrell Hodges, where his experience, wisdom, and institutional knowledge make him an invaluable member of the Sheriff's Office team. Whether assisting with daily operations, supporting staff, or preserving the history and traditions of the agency, Billy's dedication is evident in everything he does.
Reaching 45 years of service is a remarkable accomplishment and a testament to Billy's exceptional work ethic, integrity, and commitment to serving Cumberland County. His contributions have touched countless lives and helped strengthen the Sheriff's Office for generations.
Please join us in congratulating Billy Black on this extraordinary milestone and thanking him for 45 years of outstanding service. We wish him continued success and happiness in the years ahead.

07/01/2026

Please join us in congratulating Ellen Bryant, Chief Deputy Commissioner of the Revenue, as July 2026 Employee of the Month!

Ellen has proudly served as a Deputy Commissioner of the Revenue since August 2019 and was promoted to Chief Deputy in November 2022 after earning her Master Deputy designation that same year!

Known for her extensive knowledge of the Commissioner of the Revenue's Office, Ellen works tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the office operates efficiently and effectively, all while providing customer service to the community.

Ellen's positive attitude, leadership, and unwavering commitment make her an invaluable asset to the Commissioner of the Revenue's Office and to the citizens of Cumberland County.

Congratulations, Ellen, and thank you for your outstanding service and dedication! We appreciate everything you do for Cumberland County.

06/02/2026

Congratulations to our June 2026 Employee of the Month, Fred Allen, Utilities Supervisor! 🚰⭐

When it comes to keeping our utilities running smoothly, Fred is the guy who makes it happen. Whether it's the middle of the day, the middle of the night, or somewhere in between, Fred is always willing to go above and beyond to ensure our department stays operational and our community keeps flowing.

While most people only think about utilities when something goes wrong, Fred works tirelessly behind the scenes to make sure that doesn't happen. His dedication, leadership, and willingness to answer the call—regardless of the hour—have made him an invaluable part of our team.

Some superheroes wear capes; Fred wears work boots and carries a phone that's always ringing!

Thank you, Fred, for your hard work, commitment, and the countless hours you put in to keep things running smoothly. We appreciate everything you do and are proud to recognize you as our June Employee of the Month!

05/28/2026

Thank you Mrs. Patty!!

05/13/2026

05/01/2026

Join us in celebrating our Employee of the Month for May 2026 — Michael Davis, Animal Control Lead Officer! 🐾

Michael’s dedication to the well-being and safety of our four-legged residents does not go unnoticed. Whether he’s responding to calls, ensuring animals are cared for, or going the extra mile to reunite pets with their families, he consistently shows compassion, professionalism, and heart.

Just as importantly, Michael brings a great sense of humor to every interaction with his two-legged coworkers and community members, making even the busiest days a little brighter.

Thank you, Michael, for your hard work, commitment, and the positive energy you bring to our team each day!