Wise County approves 1% FY25/26 budget increase and adopts FY26/27 property tax rates

WISE, Va. — The Wise County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a 1% increase to the FY25/26 county budget during its March 12 regular meeting and adopted property tax rates for FY26/27.

The board approved the 1% increase on a motion by Supervisor Robert R. Adkins, seconded by Supervisor Steve Bates. The vote was recorded as unanimously approved. The action followed an advertised public hearing on the proposed increase at which multiple residents — including Terry Short, Daniel Rollins, Walter Crouse, Kathy Selvage and Steve Dyer — voiced concerns about higher taxes and the county’s budget shortfall.

Earlier in the meeting the board approved a resolution setting property tax rates for FY26/27 on a motion by Adkins with a second from Bates; the motion carried following roll call. The board also approved budget amendments #46 and #47 and adopted a PPTRA budget resolution to be included with the annual budget.

Board members noted they are working toward $5 million in budget cuts and scheduled a district town hall for March 24, 2026, at the Wise Fire Department Bingo Hall to discuss budget priorities and tax considerations. Interim County Administrator Karen T. Mullins reported the administration is reviewing potential cuts, potential tax increases and the need to hold a budget workshop.

The board voted to change appropriations from quarterly to monthly and approved fourth-quarter appropriations. Several routine consent items were approved as part of the consent agenda.

What’s next: The board recessed to a follow-up session on March 18, 2026, to continue administrative and budget work.