BLACKSBURG (WSLS 10) - Talks are underway about converting the town of Blacksburg to a city; however, to make that possible, it will take legislative action and several years to find out if the conversion would meet the needs of residents.
Before converting the town into a city, town officials say they must look at all the pros and cons of the idea before moving forward. Mayor Ron Rordam said becoming a city is something that may not happen in the near future.
Over the last three years, residents have asked the town to look at the idea and what it would mean for schools, land issues how it would operate differently than Montgomery County.
"Cities provide schools, court services and social services which towns do not and they come with the cost," said Rordam
The issue of converting to city status was discussed at a council work session this week. Despite Blacksburg being the second most populated town in Virginia, becoming a city is still in the discussion phase.
"We used to be the largest town until Leesburg surpassed us a few years ago. Interestingly enough Leesburg is trying to become a city as well, so I think it's worthwhile we consider it," said Michael Sutphin, a member of the Blacksburg Town Council.
The town also considered the issue in 1983, but decided against the move. And it still may not be an easy task for Blacksburg.
"Virginia has a moratorium on towns becoming cities until 2023 so if we wanted to become a city before then we have to ask the state legislator to change the law to allow us to do that," said Sutphin.
Right now, Blacksburg residents pay county taxes, town taxes and real estate taxes. If the town converts, residents will only pay city taxes. Town officials will also hold a series of public info meeting to get the input from residents on this decision.