By Matt de Simone
Fincastle Town Council approved routine financial matters, heard updates on infrastructure and community events, and discussed upcoming projects during its April 10 meeting.
Council members unanimously approved the town’s monthly financial and treasurer’s reports, which included a higher-than-usual volume of expenditures tied to seasonal maintenance and annual costs. Among the notable expenses were a $4,500 deposit for this year’s fireworks display, copier repairs and renewals, and ongoing mowing services as the town enters the spring season.
Town officials also reviewed water and sewer expenses, including a $9,800 pump replacement that came in under initial estimates, as well as a delayed loan payment that was reissued electronically after a mailed check failed to arrive.
The treasurer reported that the town has shifted funds from certificates of deposit into a higher-yield money market account with First Bank and implemented a “positive pay” system to enhance protection against check fraud.
Bess Madonna of the Fincastle Sustainability Committee thanked council members for their recent financial support and invited the community to attend the town’s third annual Earth Day event on April 25 at the Fincastle Library. The event will include educational exhibits, vendors, children’s activities and a poster contest featuring local students.
Town Manager Melanie McFadyen presented her monthly report, highlighting ongoing and upcoming initiatives.
At Big Spring Park, recent cleanup efforts were completed with volunteer assistance, and additional improvements are underway, including work on the gazebo, fencing, and monuments. Fincastle Branch Library Manager Sarah Rodgers outlined plans to expand the park’s popular storybook trail program, with themed displays scheduled monthly through the summer and potentially into the fall.
Infrastructure discussions focused on sidewalk repairs at multiple locations and continued uncertainty over whether responsibility lies with the town or VDOT. Council also reviewed progress on an ongoing grant application for a backup generator to support the town’s water system during power outages. The project has received support from Del. Terry Austin and the Botetourt County Sheriff’s Office.
Council members also raised concerns about deteriorating road conditions, particularly potholes on Church Street. Officials noted that ongoing construction traffic in the area may be contributing to the issue and could delay permanent repairs.
The finance committee announced that budget work sessions will take place later this month, with a public hearing scheduled for May and final adoption expected in June.
McFadyen also reminded residents to maintain their properties as the growing season begins and discussed early planning efforts for the annual Tinsel Trail in December, including the possible addition of food vendors and expanded activities.
In other business, council approved a $150 contribution to support Open Studio Botetourt’s “Paint Fincastle” event, scheduled for the first weekend in June.
Officials also plan to include donation requests for the town’s July 5 fireworks display in upcoming water bills, noting increased costs tied to the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary celebration.
During the public comment period, residents asked questions about the proposed generator project, including maintenance costs and long-term planning. Town officials said the grant, if approved, would likely cover the full cost and improve the town’s emergency preparedness.
Mayor Mary Bess Smith noted that power outages in Fincastle have been rare but said the generator would provide an added layer of security for essential services..
The Fincastle Town Council will hold its next regular meeting May 14 at 7 p.m. at the Fincastle Volunteer Fire Department Training Room. For more information, including the full agenda packet, visit www.townoffincastle.org/agenda-minutes-packets.
