Town of Tazewell

The council engaged in a budget work session, focusing on the procurement of a new fire truck and the potential need for a savings contingency line to address aging fleet equipment. Discussions also covered the possible elimination of vehicle fees, the potential impact of minimum wage adjustments, and general budgetary projections based on historical data. The council discussed whether to seek multiple quotes for equipment and explored strategies for communicating tax changes to the public.

The council meeting addressed several significant topics, including a special presentation regarding Black History Month, the recognition of a former mayor, and the proclamation of FBLA Week. The council considered a request for an Oktobrewfest event, discussed the donation of the Doc Witten House, and acknowledged several local businesses. Committee updates were provided for the Planning Commission, Tazewell Today, I/EDA, and the Comprehensive Plan Review. Unfinished business included the closure of a portion of Bishop Street and the planning for an Independence Day fireworks display. New business covered the revitalization project at 1616 Riverside Drive, the purchase of a service weapon by a retiring police officer, updates on the Clinch River Pavilion, the Mountain Biking Project, and the formation of a new Recreation Committee.

The council conducted an executive session to discuss real property and personnel matters. During the budget work session, several topics were addressed: appointments were made to the Recreation Committee; proposed fee increases were reviewed for pool admissions, shelter rentals, and American Legion facility rentals; potential food truck licensing and a food truck festival were discussed; and updates were provided on the Warhawk Park project. Additionally, the council debated the need for Fire Department asset sharing, adjustments to water and sewer tap fees, contracting out mowing services, and strategic long-term planning for water and sewer infrastructure including a five-year capital improvements plan.

This joint work session focused primarily on additions to the comprehensive plan, which must be reviewed every five years and is due in September 2026. Key discussion items included the wastewater treatment plant upgrade, funded by the DEQ, and the installation of sewer lines to residents lacking access, with budget allocations planned for 2027-2028 and 2028-2029. The Route 460 water line replacement project, a 50/50 partnership with the Tazewell County PSA, is ongoing. Discussions also covered mandated EPA lead service line replacement requirements by 2027. Sidewalk maintenance was addressed, focusing on Main Street repairs and a potential partnership with VOTE for sidewalks along Fin Castle. Funding for EMS congressional directed spending, totaling $354,000 with a town match, was reviewed alongside plans for facility improvements. North Tazewell revitalization efforts were detailed, including the Glitch River Farmers Market Pavilion project and facade improvements in partnership with the DHC. Discussions also touched upon the viability of future retail development due to the area being added to the Virginia Enterprise Zone. Further agenda items included funding for mountain biking trails, field restoration at Lincolnshire Park to potentially support a softball league, and the possibility of establishing primitive camping and night fishing, noting associated costs for road construction for emergency services access. Finally, the acquisition of a portion of the fairground for potential retail space adjacent to Route 460 was mentioned.

The meeting commenced with the Council entering and subsequently exiting an executive session, which was certified as being conducted in conformity with Virginia law regarding public business matters lawfully exempted from open meeting requirements. Key discussions focused on personnel and facility fee adjustments. The Council addressed recreation committee appointments, nominating individuals for various terms and considering stipulations for YMCA representation and council member succession. Significant time was dedicated to reviewing and proposing increases to optional user fees for recreational facilities to better cover operating costs, which have remained static for approximately 20 years. Specifically, proposed adjustments included rates for the Lincoln Shower Pool and Splash Pad admission (raising weekend rates from $5 to $7 and weekday rates from $4 to $5) and increases for shelter rentals across different sizes and time durations, aiming to improve revenue contribution toward upkeep of facilities like picnic tables and inflatables at the aqua park.