We’re excited to introduce three new staff members from our partner localities: Jack Hurst (Shenandoah), Dwayne Martin (Rockingham), and Delaney Krasner (Augusta). Check out our Q&As below to learn more about their backgrounds and what they have planned for their counties.
Delaney Krasner, Augusta County Planning Department
New talent has arrived! Delaney Krasner recently joined the Augusta County planning department. In anticipation of the many collaborative projects ahead, we asked her a few questions to learn more about her.
About Delaney
A: I am originally from Worcester, Massachusetts and completed my undergraduate studies in New York and attended graduate school in Texas.
A: When not working I spend my time playing cello.
A: It might come as a surprise to learn that I used to play the bagpipes and once worked at a zoo—specifically taking the flamingos for their daily walks!
About Delaney's New Role
A: What interests me the most about this work is the holistic approach; it requires pulling pieces from law, ecology, economics, and human behavior all at once. At the core are real people and real communities. I love when I get to engage with community members and can add not only quantitative data, but the qualitative and human element that no data can fully capture on its own.
A: In the next year or two, working with Greenville residents to develop a small area plan [in accordance with the 2045 comprehensive plan]. The plan will incorporate the desires of residents and identify new opportunities for growth compatible with the unique character of the area.
Dwayne Martin, Rockingham County’s Deputy County Administrator for Agriculture & Strategic Project Management
We’re delighted that Rockingham County has invested in staff to support farmers and the farming economy in the county! We chatted with Dwayne Martin who began work in this new position in November 2025.
About Dwayne
A: I grew up in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, and attended Garden Spot High School. I later earned a degree in Psychology from Liberty University.
A: Early on, I wanted to follow in my family’s footsteps and become a butcher, like my father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. While I never lost my love for that trade—and still enjoy it today as a hobby—I developed interests in mental health, social services, and construction. I spent 11 years as a mental health provider and also operated a construction business. My career has been a journey shaped by a passion for learning, challenge, and new opportunities.
A: I enjoy being outdoors, especially fly fishing for trout in Virginia’s mountain streams and the spring creeks throughout the Valley.
A: My grandfather was an early role model—a man of grace, compassion, and a deep love of learning. He consistently encouraged me to challenge myself. Later, my high school teacher, Mr. Dean, became a pivotal mentor. He had a profound impact on my life and helped guide me during a critical time.
A: Anything cooked on my grill, grown in my field, and processed in my own shop.
A: I dropped out of high school in 1991. With the help and guidance of Mr. Dean, I returned, graduated, and went on to earn a college degree.
About Dwayne's New Role
A: As Deputy County Administrator for Agriculture and Strategic Project Management, my role is highly dynamic. My primary focus is supporting the agricultural community, which includes farming, land use, and the broader industries connected to agriculture—the “ripple effect” we often reference.
Recently, much of my work has centered on the Virginia Clean Economy Act and exploring how anaerobic digesters can generate renewable energy by utilizing agricultural byproducts from poultry, dairy, and commercial food waste.
In addition to agriculture, I am heavily involved in capital improvement projects across the county, helping guide planning, coordination, and execution.
A: The variety. A single day can span multiple industries, involve coordination across local and state government, and end with a one-on-one conversation with a local agricultural business owner looking to expand. Add in data analysis, budgeting, and problem-solving, and every day is both engaging and rewarding. Being part of a solutions-focused team makes the work especially meaningful.
A: That 99% of the work happens behind the scenes. Decisions are complex, multi-faceted, and involve careful consideration of both immediate needs and long-term impacts. Our team is deeply passionate, and while discussions can be spirited, everyone shares the goal of doing what’s best for the county. Resident input is always taken seriously and plays an important role in the process.
A: 2026 is shaping up to be a year of innovation. I’m excited about the growth of renewable energy initiatives that turn what was once considered waste into valuable resources. It’s also energizing to work alongside a new generation eager to expand agriculture in creative and forward-thinking ways.
A: The number of hours required. It’s demanding, but I genuinely enjoy the work and find it worth every bit of effort.
A: In the near term, I hope to make meaningful progress in helping agriculture adapt to a changing world. As our community grows, we must find ways to support both population expansion and agricultural sustainability.
Looking five years ahead, I hope we can position our community as a model for innovation—where thoughtful planning, strong partnerships, and a positive approach to change allow both agriculture and community development to thrive together.
Jack Hurst, Shenandoah County Planning Department
Shenandoah County’s newest planner has hit the ground running! Jack Hurst joins the team to help manage the county’s growth and refine the codes that keep our development smart and sustainable. Please join us in giving Jack a warm welcome as he works to protect the unique character of our Valley!
About Jack
A: I spent most of my childhood in Purcellville, VA. From there, I’ve lived in Fredericksburg, VA and Charlottesville, VA for my undergrad and graduate education. I grew up in Portland, OR but I would call Virginia my home!
A: I was always digging through dirt and finding trinkets and whatnots, and the thrill of finding something is still ingrained in me (even as small as finding a nickel on the ground). I always wanted to be an archaeologist, and I went to University of Mary Washington to pursue such a dream too!
A: I like to go for walks where I can see open fields and mountains, look at antique stores to get my “find something cool” thrill out of the way, read lots of books and watch various shows and movies!
A:My Father has been a large role model; an immigrant at the age of 19, made his way up and is living the American Dream with my other role model, my Mother, who most say I take after most! 🙂
A:You can’t go wrong with some ribs or teriyaki chicken! Bean’s BBQ in Edinburg and Sakura in Woodstock fill that requirement for me very nicely. (P.S.: Bean’s, please have more ribs available throughout the week!!)
A: I’m a very open book; I try to stay the same person as I am outside of work as well as at work. I guess the best way to be surprised about me is to come see for yourself– my door is (mostly) always open! 🙂
About Jack's New Role
A: There are few jobs where you can have a great impact and know almost all facets of what makes a community. In most jobs, you learn about one department and that’s it, but being here, the door is open to all ideas and concepts.
A famous quote that has stuck with me and holds true to my way of working —“A jack of all trades is a master of none, but oftentimes better than a master of one.” I may not know all the answers, but I will find the answers.
A: Learning our Virginia State Code has been a whirlwind of an experience. It is vital to know what we can or cannot do within our own community, navigating through bills and laws and creating something can be very challenging (but exciting!)
A: I’d hope to create a space for people of all ages to not just survive by making ends meet but to thrive; whether it be close to family, pursuing education, having work availability, access to healthcare, or a stable and safe housing situation. Whatever one needs, they shall have the best opportunity to achieve what they want. Shenandoah County’s phrase is “Industry of Plenty” and I shall do my best to make it just that.