Smyth County Board of Supervisors Meeting Highlights – June 26, 2025
The Smyth County Board of Supervisors convened for their regular monthly meeting Thursday evening, with all members in attendance. The agenda covered a wide range of topics, from school programs and tax break proposals to public appointments and fiscal policy updates.
Community and Citizen Engagement
The evening opened with a presentation by Julie Looney, counselor at Marion Senior High School, who shared information on the Explorer’s After School Program, highlighting the initiative’s impact on student engagement and academic development.
During Citizen’s Time, several community members addressed the board. David Fulton proposed a temporary meals tax holiday, suggesting that a weekend or week without meals tax—similar to Virginia’s back-to-school tax-free weekend—could stimulate local restaurant traffic and tourism.
Dr. Charles Wassum brought forth a bold idea: eliminating property taxes, saying that property ownership should be final upon purchase. He also delivered remarks on the upcoming Independence Day, emphasizing its spiritual significance and linking the nation’s founding principles to Christian values. He cited 4 mentions of God in the Declaration of Independence.
Marion Mayor Avery Cornett took a moment to thank the board for its cooperative efforts with the Town of Marion and expressed his hopes for continued collaboration. He extended an invitation to the board to participate in upcoming town events.
County Operations and Policy Updates
County Administrator Shawn Utt delivered several updates:
• Cody Ridge has been hired as the county’s new Building Official. (Cost of building Permit increase was approved)
• A revised travel request policy was approved, streamlining the process through faster, online methods.
• A new social media policy, modeled after Fairfax County Public Schools’ guidelines, was adopted for employees.
• The board approved salary increases for first responders, reflecting continued investment in essential personnel.
Fiscal Updates
The board’s Budget Committee reported that the county remained within its fiscal limits. Approximately $785,451 in unspent funds and grants are being reallocated. The board also discussed the availability of $50 million in state disaster relief funding, pending a required memorandum of understanding and staffing plan filed on the state level. The Planning District Commission (PDC) may serve as the regional administrator for the program.
Board Appointments
The Rye Valley Water Board retained its current members—Danny Slemp, Bobby Coe, and Bill Farmer—with new staggered terms to ensure continuity.
The Economic Development Authority (EDA), which includes one appointed representative from each district in Smyth County, experienced a leadership change following the recent announcement of Montie Fleshman’s retirement. Fleshman, a longtime EDA Chairman, stepped down with three years remaining in his current appointment. The vacancy was officially announced within the past 24 hours. Here are the requirements posted for the board position:
An inquiry was made about the procedure for filling the position and the qualifications required for new appointees. Kendra Hayden provided documentation outlining the criteria and clarified the EDA’s expectations, stating, “The EDA board is very unique, and seeks appointees who have a breadth of knowledge in business, finance, government, leadership, and more.” The EDA’s mission, in part, is “…to improve the quality of life throughout Smyth County by encouraging positive economic growth… and support the delivery of vital public services.”
Supervisor Jason Parris announced the appointment of Larry Atwood of Sugar Grove to represent the Rye Valley District on the EDA Board. Atwood is currently employed as a custodian at Sugar Grove School and is an active volunteer with the Sugar Grove Fire Department and Lifesaving Crew. His longstanding commitment to public service is seen as a strong asset for this new role. The community looks forward to hearing from Mr. Atwood in the future and is hopeful for the contributions he will bring to the district through this appointment. *see the full description attached as provided by Smyth County BOS. Mr. Atwood is pictured here.
Additionally, Gwyn Combs was appointed as the Rye Valley District’s representative on the Smyth County Public Library Board of Trustees. Combs previously served a term on the Smyth County School Board and has consistently expressed a desire to continue serving the community. A lifelong resident of the area, Combs remains active in both the Sugar Grove and Teas communities, bringing valuable local insight and experience to his new role. Gwyn Combs pictured here.
Supervisor Comments and Community Support
• Dr. Ratliff inquired about 4-H sponsorship needs and how to allocate remaining supervisor funds to support them.
• Mr. Call praised county staff for their dedication.
• Mr. Billings reiterated his intent to donate his remaining supervisor funds to 4-H and voiced support for the meals tax holiday.
• Mr. Parris emphasized the importance of civic participation and encouraged residents to shop and celebrate locally over the holiday.
• Mr. Widener supported the tax break proposal, highlighting its potential to attract more visitors and suggested investing in youth and family-friendly events.
• Mr. Sturgill successfully proposed that county offices close at noon on July 3 in observance of Independence Day.
• Chairman Atkins suggested that the meals tax holiday idea be revisited for future holidays like Independence Day and Labor Day. He also reminded residents of the upcoming baseball and fireworks celebration on July 6.
