Despite some opposition from the public, the Blacksburg Town Council approved its $72 million dollar budget for fiscal year 2008-09, which also contained a one percent meals tax increase, Tuesday night.

Council unanimously approved the budget and real estate tax rate; the meals tax increase and an increase in fees For Water And Sewer Services, Solid Waste And Recycling Services, Water Meter Installation Fees, Availability And Connection Fees And Water Service Deposits.

“I don’t like raising taxes, but sometimes you have to,” said Mayor Ron Rordam.

Several representatives of the local restaurants voiced their opinion against raising the meals tax. Most said they have already seen a decrease in business because of the economy and they feel that the tax increase will hurt them even more.

Council had said the increase in the meals tax would help fund four new police officers, one dispatcher and a cleaning crew dedicated to the downtown area.

“Most of us recognize that the meals tax is band-aid,” said councilman Don Langrehr. “We are trying to plug up a leaking hole.”

The town’s utility bills will also increase by just under $5 per month.

The good news was, the town’s real estate tax would stay at 22 cents per $100 in value.

 
“As we grow, our cost of living goes up,” added Langrehr.

In other action last night, four officers of the Blacksburg Police Department were promoted during a special ceremony.  Ken Gabe was promoted to Captain, Anthony Wilson was promoted to Lieutenant, J.D. Robertson was promoted to Sergeant and Gary Thomas was also promoted to Sergeant.

The mayor also recognized the Virginia Tech Student Government Association for their Annual Big Event and also visitors from Kenya.

Council also approved Resolution 4-F-08: A Resolution Approving Various Aspects Of The Class Of 2008 "Senior Celebration.”

Also, there was presentation of San Jose de Bocav, Nicaragua Sister City.

Council also went into close session for a briefing by the Town Attorney regarding threatened litigation, claims made against the Town of Blacksburg arising from April 16th Virginia Tech shootings.

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