Smyth County Board of Supervisors Meeting & Public Hearings June 18, 2026

The Smyth County Board of Supervisors held a meeting on June 18, 2026, which included several procurement and budget-related discussions. Key topics included a public hearing and subsequent approval of an ordinance amendment to remove allowances for open space and forest land use in property tax assessments, impacting local taxation policies. The board also approved a budget amendment totaling approximately $5 million, with $2,000 allocated to the Commonwealth Attorney's department via a grant and the remainder requested by the school board for various projects. Additionally, the board approved increases in solid waste disposal rates and water and sewer rates to address rising operational costs and financial shortfalls, including a 5% water rate increase and a 10% sewer rate increase. The meeting featured detailed discussions on tax rates, property assessments, and the challenges of balancing budget constraints with community service needs. Motions to waive public hearing rules for immediate action and to approve budget amendments and rate changes were passed, reflecting the board's efforts to manage fiscal responsibilities amid state budget uncertainties.