Ray Weiland, a dedicated public servant, marked the end of his 23-year tenure with the Town of Stuart on December 18, receiving accolades during his final town council meeting. Weiland, who served as mayor for 12 of those years, chose not to seek reelection following his promotion to Engineering Field Director for the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) Office of Drinking Water.
In his new role, Weiland oversees the Danville Field Office, which regulates nearly 400 waterworks across 17 counties and four cities, including Patrick County. He explained his decision to step down, in part citing potential conflicts of interest.
“Some of this grant money comes from the Office of Drinking Water, and I just didn’t want…anyone thinking there’s any kind of conflict of interest there,” Weiland said.
A Reluctant Start in Public Service
Weiland’s journey in local government began in 2001 when his coworker, Rick Prutting, urged him to fill a vacant council seat.
“After much convincing…it took me a while to say okay, but I finally, reluctantly said, ‘alright.’ I figured that’s all I would do. Well, needless to say, now it’s 23 years later,” Weiland recalled.
What began as a temporary commitment soon became a passion. “It was interesting in what was going on behind the scenes that I had no idea about,” he said, admitting that he had never attended a council meeting prior to taking the role.
Weiland ran for reelection multiple times, often unopposed, and found himself at the forefront of transformative projects.
Early Achievements
When Weiland joined the council, Stuart’s water treatment plant was undergoing upgrades, and the first Downtown Revitalization project had recently concluded. As he became more familiar with council operations, Weiland was part of initiatives that reshaped the town.
The Uptown Revitalization project was particularly notable, transforming Main Street by moving powerlines underground, improving sidewalks, and installing streetlamps and planters.
“It really turned out fantastic on Main Street,” Weiland said.
The town also acquired property to build the Stuart Farmers’ Market and Amphitheater, a project that remains a focal point of community activity.
Taking the Helm as Mayor
Weiland became mayor in 2012 after then-Mayor Jimmy McHone stepped down.
“I don’t think anybody else was interested in running for mayor at the time,” he said. Encouraged by colleagues, Weiland decided to take on the leadership role, setting ambitious goals.
One of his primary objectives was addressing the town’s aging infrastructure, particularly the wastewater treatment plant. Weiland also championed the construction of a new fire department building, a project initially slated for Commerce Street but ultimately realized through the renovation of the old Food Lion building on Wood Brothers Drive.
“Its location was absolutely perfect,” he said, adding that the renovated building saved the town over $1 million.
Challenges and Triumphs
The wastewater treatment plant upgrade was a longer journey, plagued by permitting delays and the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these hurdles, the project was completed successfully.
“The discharge water…is as clean or cleaner than the water when we took it out of the Mayo River,” Weiland said proudly.
Another highlight of Weiland’s tenure was the purchase and revival of the Star Theatre. Operated by One Family Productions, the theater now serves as a cultural hub for music, movies, and plays.
“We felt the theater would be a great addition for entertainment in the town,” he said.
Financial Growth
Under Weiland’s leadership, the town’s financial standing improved dramatically. Stuart’s bank balance grew from $400,000 to approximately $5 million, including $1.7 million earmarked for the next Downtown Revitalization project.
Planned upgrades include enhancements to the Stuart Farmers’ Market, the construction of a megadeck connecting downtown buildings, and the installation of generators at the water and wastewater plants to ensure uninterrupted operations during power outages.
A Legacy of Service
As he steps away from public office, Weiland expressed confidence in the town’s future.
“We have a great town council and an excellent Town Manager in Bryce Simmons…I know that they’re going to continue the good work that we’ve been doing all along,” he said.
Weiland also praised former Town Manager Terry Tilley, who served for 42 years, and the town’s employees for their dedication.
“It’s just been a really good run, and I’m really proud of everything that we accomplished over the years,” he said.
Looking Ahead
While his focus now shifts to his role with the VDH, Weiland remains open to serving the town in other capacities.
“If they ask me to be on a committee or something…I would be more than happy to do that and help them out in any way that I can,” he said.
A Grateful Goodbye
Weiland extended his gratitude to Stuart’s residents for their support over the years.
“They allowed me to serve the town for so long…it’s been an honor,” he said.
