Blacksburg Council reviews budget with focus on transit, housing, and utility rates

The Blacksburg Town Council meeting on May 13, 2025, highlighted key budgetary decisions that will impact the community significantly. The council approved a budget that maintains the real estate tax rate at 26 cents per $100 of assessed value while projecting a 4.4% increase in the general fund budget, which totals approximately $53 million. This increase is largely attributed to rising costs across various services.

A notable portion of the budget is allocated to the transit fund, which supports the Blacksburg transit system primarily through state and federal grants. The council is also focusing on enhancing community services, including funding for affordable housing incentives and improvements to local infrastructure, such as the passenger rail station and the 911 system radio upgrade.

The meeting also addressed personnel and benefits, with plans to add new positions in the finance and transit departments to improve service delivery. Additionally, the council discussed utility rate increases, projecting an average rise of 4.5% in water, sewer, and solid waste services due to inflationary pressures.

In terms of community engagement, the council approved increased funding for several local organizations, including the YMCA and the Imagination Library of Montgomery County, which provides books to children. The Lyric Theatre will also receive $70,000 for significant improvements as part of its capital campaign.

Looking ahead, the council is preparing for a public hearing on the budget, scheduled for May 27, and is encouraging community participation in upcoming events, including updates on the Virginia Tech airport and the Toms Creek Basin study.

Overall, the meeting underscored the council's commitment to addressing community needs through strategic funding and service enhancements, while also maintaining fiscal responsibility.