On Monday, March 23, 2026, Colonial Virginia Council leadership formally confirmed what voting members already knew following the March 19 Special Meeting:
The motion to merge with Heart of Virginia Council did not pass.
This makes the outcome official.
Colonial Virginia Council remains an independent council.
From Vote to Confirmation
The result was clear the night of the vote, as it was announced directly to those in attendance.
As is often the case with decisions of this magnitude, word spread quickly across the Scouting community in the hours that followed.
With the official communication now issued, there is no ambiguity:
- The proposed merger with HOVC will not move forward
- CVC continues as its own council
What Matters About This Moment
This outcome reflects a process that ultimately came down to member participation.
Those present at the March 19 meeting, including Chartered Organization Representatives, determined the result.
That matters.
What Comes Next
With the result now confirmed, attention turns forward. There will likely be future conversations about structure, partnerships, and even other merger proposals.
When those conversations happen again, they should be:
- Transparent from the beginning
- Grounded in complete and clearly presented data
- Focused on what best serves Scouts, families, and volunteers— not professional outcomes or deadline-driven decisions
That is the standard going forward.
A Reset, Not an Endpoint
This is not the end of the conversation. It is a reset point.
An opportunity to move forward with broader engagement, clearer communication, and a focus on strengthening Scouting in the communities it serves.
A Thank You — To Those Behind the Scenes
This outcome did not happen by accident.
It was the result of a true grassroots effort — carried forward by volunteers, parents, leaders, and supporters across the region.
Many of them worked quietly. Many of them asked questions, shared information, and encouraged participation. Many of them chose not to put their names forward.
But they showed up — in conversations, in outreach, and ultimately, in that room.
To those individuals: Thank you.
Your efforts mattered.
Your integrity mattered.
And your commitment to Scouting in Hampton Roads made a difference.
What’s Next for the Hampton Roads Scouting Alliance
The Hampton Roads Scouting Alliance will remain available and attentive. Our role is not to be involved in every decision, but to step in when it matters.
Specifically, we will engage when:
- Decisions are being rushed
- Information is incomplete or not fully shared
- Members are not given a clear, informed opportunity to participate
And when we do, our focus will remain consistent:
- Supporting informed membership
- Advocating for transparency and accountability
- Ensuring decisions are driven by what best serves Scouts, families, and volunteers
This is a moment to move forward — thoughtfully, transparently, and with a shared commitment to what matters most.
And when that standard is not met, we will be there.
Recpectfully,
Hampton Roads Scouting Alliance
Protect Hampton Roads Scouting
A volunteer-led group focused on transparency, member voice, and the long-term strength of Scouting in Hampton Roads