Tazewell council approves 2025–26 budget, rezoning and several project steps; member announces resignation

The Town of Tazewell council approved several major municipal items and received project updates at Wednesday's meeting, including formal budget approval, rezoning action, scheduling of a bond-related public hearing and multiple infrastructure project updates.

Budget and rezoning votes

Councilors voted to approve the town's 2025–26 budget after waiving a second reading. During the motion to adopt the budget, a council member who serves as executive director of the nonprofit Tasle Today stated a conflict‑of‑interest recusal framework under Virginia Code (transcript cites sections 2.2‑3112 and 2.2‑23115H) and affirmed an ability to participate because at least two similarly situated entities are also affected. The transcript records the budget passed; no detailed roll-call tally appears in the minutes transcribed.

Council also waived second reading and approved rezoning for Harris Lane properties following a planning-commission recommendation.

Sewer bonds and wastewater upgrade

Staff reported they signed an award letter to the lowest bidder for the wastewater treatment plant upgrade; DEQ provided additional principal forgiveness and loan support. The council set a public hearing for sewer bonds to fund the project for Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at 7:15 p.m. Town staff said loan closing and bond procedures will follow the public hearings and that construction is expected to take about 18 months once contracts are finalized.

Clinch River Pavilion and Route 460 waterline

Council and IDA representatives reported preliminary funding and project-scoping successes for the Clinch River Pavilion. The tobacco commission awarded $296,500 for the pavilion; the council allocated matching funds. A $15,000 award for river access was also presented. Staff are seeking vendor cost clarifications and exploring whether multiple wood pavilions could meet project needs without switching to higher-cost steel structures.

The Route 460 waterline replacement project broke ground; staff reported about 320 feet of pipe were laid in the first two days.

Riverside Propane and other business

Planning commission recommended approval of a Riverside Propane site plan; council voted to accept the recommendation and approve the plan. The council also approved routine items including minutes and the May financial statements.

Council member resignation

Near the end of the meeting, a council member announced her resignation effective June 30, 2025. In a speech explaining her decision, she cited repeated disputes over optics related to her dual role with the nonprofit Tasle Today and said she would continue to advocate for town revitalization outside elected office. A colleague addressed her by name as "Emily" during comments after the motion to adjourn.

What happens next

Staff were directed to research land‑use tax exemption mechanics at the county level and to return with proposed code or ordinance language; they also were asked to verify right‑of‑way, utility access and zoning questions raised during the affordable‑housing presentation. The July 8 public hearing on sewer bonds will be the next scheduled formal step for the wastewater project.