Blacksburg Town Council Work Session – January 17, 2023

The Blacksburg Town Council held a work session on January 17, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. Council reviewed two upcoming public hearing ordinances, received an update on the county real property tax reassessment, discussed the recommended Capital Improvement Plan for FY2023/2024–2027/2028, and heard a presentation on town sewer projects. No formal votes were taken; the session adjourned at 12:14 p.m.

Discussion Items

• Review of Public Hearings Scheduled for February 14, 2023 – Town Manager Marc Verniel and Town Attorney Lawrence Spencer briefed Council on two proposed ordinances: Ordinance 2008 (vacating a public utility easement at 1902 Research Center Drive) and Ordinance 2009 (vacating a greenway trail easement at 1505 Bradley Lane). Both are intended to vacate the Town’s interest in unneeded easements.

• County Real Property Tax Reassessment Update – Town Manager Marc Verniel explained the components of the real estate tax bill, including the tax rate and property assessment. Town Attorney Lawrence Spencer summarized Virginia Code § 58.1-3321, which regulates increased assessments. Council was advised to advertise that the Town will maintain the existing tax rate, with the option to consider a lower rate during the budget process after a public hearing.

• Recommended Capital Improvement Plan – FY2023/2024-2027/2028 – Town Manager Marc Verniel provided a brief overview of the recommended Capital Improvement Program. Council members had no questions.

• Town Sewer Projects Update – Engineering Director Randy Formica presented an overview of current sanitary sewer system projects, including the areas where improvements are being performed, current timetables, benefits, and associated challenges.

Key Outcomes

• Council directed staff to advertise that the Town will maintain the existing real property tax rate for the upcoming budget cycle, with the understanding that a lower rate may be considered after public hearings during the budget process.
• No formal votes were taken on any agenda item; the work session was informational and preparatory in nature.