Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Blacksburg public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
6 issues with medium priority
Blacksburg Horizons Comprehensive Plan Survey
The town is starting work on its comprehensive plan update, branded Blacksburg Horizons, with a survey and map open for public input until December 18.
Town charter corporate boundaries update
Council asked the General Assembly to update the charter's boundary description to match the corrected 2025 survey — an administrative fix with no effect on actual town limits.
Meals tax updates and late-payment penalties
Restaurants that fall behind on remitting the town's prepared meals tax could see penalties climb to 25%. Definitions were also clarified for food trucks, breweries and caterers.
Blacksburg Transit Solar Panel Utility Easement
The solar panels at Blacksburg Transit are about halfway installed and should save the town significant money over the years; a new 40-year easement lets them connect to the AEP grid.
Short-term rental rules modernized
If you run an Airbnb-style rental in Blacksburg, the rules just got simpler and penalties got lighter — a $500 civil fine instead of a $1,000 criminal one, with updated registration exemptions.
Pedestrian Safety and Traffic Infrastructure
Residents and candidates discussed ways to improve street safety, including expensive flashing crosswalk beacons and traffic calming measures.