Blue Ridge City Council outlines community developments and new initiatives for 2024

The Blue Ridge City Council meeting on January 7, 2025, highlighted significant community developments and the importance of local participation. City officials emphasized the need for active involvement from residents to enhance city operations and foster a collaborative environment.

City Secretary Johnny, who has been with the city since 2017, underscored the collective effort required to drive progress. He stated, "This is a team effort... We need as many people on hands on deck as possible." This call for community engagement comes as the Economic Development Corporation (EDC) announced plans for a new strip center at the intersection of North Business 78 and 981, aimed at boosting local commerce.

The meeting also celebrated the successful launch of several new businesses in 2024, including Blue Ridge Auto Group and the grand reopening of Dollar General. The Community Development Board, led by President Kim Garcia, has been instrumental in revitalizing the downtown area, contributing $75,000 towards renovations that have significantly improved the city's appearance.

In addition to economic growth, the council reported on the city's code enforcement efforts, which have seen a total of 797 violations issued in the past year. The reinstatement of the municipal court after a four-year hiatus was also a key point, allowing for better management of local code violations.

Public Works Director Brad and his team reported on their extensive work, including processing over 1.2 million gallons of sewage and managing 218 work orders. The council's commitment to maintaining a clean and safe environment was evident, with ongoing efforts to address property maintenance issues.

Overall, the meeting reinforced the importance of community involvement and the city's proactive approach to development and public safety, setting a positive tone for the year ahead.