Serving the People of Boones Mill

Over the past eight years, the Town of Boones Mill has made steady and meaningful progress toward strengthening its infrastructure, improving day‑to‑day operations, enhancing community spaces, and building lasting partnerships. Through thoughtful planning, responsible management of public resources, and a strong focus on collaboration, the Town has worked to address long‑standing needs while positioning Boones Mill for a stable and sustainable future.

One of the most significant areas of progress has been in water and sewer infrastructure. The Town was losing money on its water and sewer system due to years of neglect and rising operational and maintenance costs. In 2018, the Town entered into a three-year agreement with the Western Virginia Water Authority for operation and maintenance of the system. This agreement included important sewer line repairs and the creation of detailed mapping of the Town’s water and sewer infrastructure. The Town also worked with the Authority to connect the Town's water system to the regional system, thereby lowering fire insurance rates for residents and businesses. These efforts strengthened system reliability, improved emergency response capability, and ensured long‑term service for residents. Due to the continued rising operations and maintenance costs, the Town Council voted to sell the system to the Authority in 2021. As a result of the sale, water and sewer rates for Town residents were reduced nearly by half, while also eliminating approximately $420,000 in water and sewer debt service from the Town’s obligations.

Boones Mill 2040, The Town's Comprehensive Plan, was adopted in 2023, along with the Downtown Revitalization Plan, following significant public input. The two plans provide guidance for the town's future growth and specific action items to be implemented. Adoption of these plans demonstrates the Town’s long‑term vision for preserving, enhancing, and reinvesting in the heart of the community.

Boones Mill has also demonstrated strong stewardship of public assets. The historic railway depot is now a local community gathering place for events, meetings, and private gatherings, preserving an important piece of the Town’s history. Strategic property sales, along with cleanup efforts on Town‑owned properties, have improved the Town’s appearance and reinforced fiscal responsibility. The Town leases part of its property to businesses, thereby increasing economic activity and improving the Town's well-being.

A Special Events Ordinance now provides clearer guidance for residents, organizations, and businesses seeking to host a large event in Boones Mill, ensuring the Town is protected and compensated for services provided during the event.

The Town began in 2018, working closely with legal counsel to ensure that town policies, ordinances, and procedures are clear, consistent, compliant, and actionable based on our small size. Legal representation is critical in today's culture, and protecting the Town and the taxpayers is a priority!

Investments in general technology, law enforcement technology, and records management have enhanced efficiency and transparency. The Town upgraded its information technology systems by adding new, more efficient computers, improving digital file organization, and implementing secure backup practices it had not previously had. Improvements to the Town website have made information more accessible and easier for residents to find, supporting open communication, transparency, and public engagement.

Enhancing quality of life has remained a key priority. Continued improvements and maintenance at the Maurice Turner Recreation Area and Carter Park provide residents and families with safe, welcoming spaces for recreation and gatherings. These community assets contribute to the health and well‑being of the Town and help foster a sense of connection among residents.

Boones Mill has also focused on strengthening its identity and supporting economic vitality. Participation with Virginia’s Blue Ridge has helped promote the Town as a destination and strengthen regional partnerships. The installation of Town entrance signs and the development of a wayfinding plan support community pride while helping visitors navigate the area.

Strong relationships and intergovernmental coordination have played a critical role in the Town’s progress. The Town has worked closely with the Virginia Department of Transportation on transportation and signage needs. Town staff worked closely with regional VDOT staff to get the downtown streets repaved in late 2023, a much-needed improvement.  The Town has fostered strong relationships with the Boone's Mill Volunteer Fire Department and Franklin County Public Safety to support emergency services and coordination. The Boones Mill Police Department’s access (which it previously lacked) to the Virginia Criminal Information Network and the National Crime Information Center, through the Franklin County Sheriff's Office and the Virginia State Police, has further strengthened public safety operations and communication.

Throughout the past eight years, Boones Mill has emphasized collaboration, accountability, and forward thinking. Improving relationships — both within the organization and with regional partners — has helped the Town address challenges more effectively and pursue opportunities that benefit the community as a whole.

These accomplishments reflect a shared commitment by Town leadership, staff, and community members to protect what makes Boones Mill special while preparing for the future. As the Town looks ahead, it remains focused on responsible growth, strong partnerships, and continuous improvement to ensure Boones Mill remains a welcoming, resilient, and vibrant place to live, work, and visit.

Grants Awarded: 2018 to Present

Since 2018, the Town of Boones Mill has secured grant funding to support key projects, improve local services, and invest in long‑term community needs. The grants listed below reflect successful partnerships with state and regional agencies and demonstrate the Town’s ongoing commitment to responsible planning, fiscal stewardship, and community improvement.



Grants Applied For – Pending Award

The Town of Boones Mill has submitted grant applications to support priority projects and future investments in the community. The applications listed below are currently under review by funding agencies. While awards have not yet been announced, these efforts reflect the Town’s proactive approach to planning, resource development, and long‑term community improvement.

$1.3 Million EPA Cleanup Grant