https://youtube.com/live/7lEMenqgRRU?feature=share

Wise County has received several questions from citizens over the last couple weeks with some of them being repeat questions. As questions continue to come in, we will continue to post these questions with answers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When was last tax rate increase by the Wise County Board of Supervisors? How much was that increase? 

Wise County’s last tax increase was in 2019 – a $.07 increase in the real estate tax per $100.

What was the total budget in 2019? 2025?

Wise County’s budget information is posted on the County’s website at Wise County, VA | Official Website.

Wise County’s total budget in 2019 was approximately $66.5 million.

Wise County’s FY25/26 budget is about $73.4 million.

Someone said the County “lost” 2 million dollars? How did that happen?

Wise County has not lost $2M. Wise County did not receive approximately $1.9M from the Public Service Corporation revenues due to the Department of Taxation reducing the local tax ratio to 81.4% in 2025. This ratio (the value relationship between the tax assessment and selling price of real estate) is determined by the Department of Taxation based on housing market activity of real property annually. Each year, the Virginia Department of Taxation requires a sales study from every locality. The study compares current tax assessment values with current housing market sales. By state law, this ratio should equal 100% every year. The local ratio, determined from the sales study, is applied to public service corporation assessment values. After a four-year reassessment cycle, the Department of Taxation determined Wise County's tax assessment on real estate had dropped to 81.4%. Public service corporations are permitted by state law (58.1-3201) to reduce their tax assessment values by the annual local tax ratio. So, all public service corporations were permitted to pay taxes on 81% of their real estate value in 2025. If Wise County's local ratio had been 100% in 2025, it would have received an additional $1.9 million in revenue. A Virginia mandated county-wide general reassessment allows localities to re-value its real property values so that public service corporations and citizens are paying taxes on100% fair market values.

§ 58.1-3201...All general reassessments or annual assessments in those localities which have annual assessments of real estate, except as otherwise provided in § 58.1-2604, shall be made at 100 percent fair market value and, except as provided in § 58.1-2608, the State Corporation Commission and the Department of Taxation shall certify public service corporation property to such county or city, with the exception of the nonoperating (noncarrier) property of railroads, on the basis of the assessment ratio as most recently determined and published by the Department of Taxation.

Why did Wise County conduct a real estate reassessment?

The Code of Virginia mandates that each locality in the Commonwealth of Virginia must perform a periodic county-wide general reassessment of all real estate property (Code of Virginia:  § 58.1-3201, § 58.1-3252.). By ordinance, Wise County conducts general reassessment every four years. For further information and details see the Commissioner of Revenue’s website at Commissioner of the Revenue | Wise County, VA

When did the County have its’ last Audit?

Wise County is required by law to have an audit annually. Wise County’s last audit was performed by Robinson, Farmer, Cox, Associates for Fiscal Year ended June 30, 2025. A copy of the Audit Reports can be found on the County’s website or at this link: https://www.wisecounty.org/Archive.aspx?ADID=203

How much of the total local funds are available for non-mandated expenditures by the Board of Supervisors?

The Board has significant mandatory funding requirements. These include, but are not limited to, the Regional Jail, Schools, School Debt, Health Department, CNW (sewer authority), VACorp insurance, PD-1 Behavioral Health, VPI Extension Office, Department of Social Services, Appalachian Juvenile Commission, Cumberlands Airport, Lonesome Pine Regional Library, and mandated Constitutional Office requirements. These total approximately $40M of the total budget.

What is a Constitutional Officer and is there a formula for required funding?

Wise County elects a Sheriff, Clerk of Court, Commonwealth’s Attorney, Commissioner of the Revenue and Treasurer to carry out the obligations set forth in the Code of Virginia for each Constitutional Office. The Code of Virginia § 15.2-1600. Counties and cities required to elect certain officers; qualifications of attorney for the Commonwealth; duties and compensation of officers; vacancies, certain counties and cities excepted; officer's powers not to be diminished. Each of these offices receives funding from the Compensation Board based on County population and each has a separate funding formula and mandatory funding by the Wise County Board of Supervisors. The Wise County Board of Supervisors is required to provide fringe benefits for all approved comp-board positions and for the Treasurer and the Commissioner of the Revenue the Board must pay at least one half of the approved salary amount determined by the comp board. Also, the Wise County Board of Supervisors supplements every Constitutional Office and the employees in that office. These salary supplements vary depending upon job duties, responsibilities and experience. These salary supplements are not mandated nor required.

The Board of Supervisors increased the real estate and personal property taxes by $0.14 cents why are they cutting the Sheriff’s SROs?

The Wise County Board of Supervisors does not have the authority to dictate to the Sheriff or his staff how or where he places his personnel. 

Is the Sheriff’s Office the only Constitutional Office receiving budget cuts?

No. The Sheriff’s office is not the only Constitutional Office or department of the County receiving budget cuts. The Board of Supervisors has eliminated positions in Wise County Administration and other Courthouse departments, redistributed duties in several departments, not rehired vacated positions, and has modified the health insurance plan for all County employees.

How much does it cost for each SRO?

The information provided to the County by the Sheriff’s office is that each SRO position costs on average of approximately $90,000 plus training, equipment and a vehicle. Wise County has supported the Grant applications and provided the grant match requirements, including training, equipment, and vehicles for all the positions, currently at 18. 

Did the County really change employees’ health insurance to a less expensive plan with a higher deductible and adjust employee share to 20%?

Yes. That is a cost savings measure that will be implemented July 1, 2026.

Is it true the County Board of Supervisors received an increase in their pay this year?

Yes. The Wise County Board of Supervisors in June of 2025 advertised and held a public hearing to establish annual compensation for the Board of Supervisors increasing the monthly stipend by $258.00 for the members and set the monthly  amount to be $1,000 per month with the Chairman receiving an additional 280.00 per month and Vice-Chairman receiving an additional $100.00 per month. Pursuant to Virginia Code the increased amount did not become effective until January 1, 2026.

Did the County really pay a Christmas bonus in 2025?

Yes. The County did pay a Christmas bonus to all County employees of $500 each. The eight (8) Board of Supervisors members were included in this payment. This amount was budgeted in the 2025 budget.

Did the Board of Supervisors pay the previous County Administrator $187,107 in 2024, and pay a 6-month severance? If so, why?

Yes. The previous County Administrator’s annual salary was approximately $153,000 and he was paid a $30,000 supplement for the duties he assumed as the Economic Development Director. For the period 2019-2024, all employees including the County Administrator received approximately 18% increase for Commonwealth of Virginia approved cost-of-living increases. The previous County Administrator had an employment contract with severance terms that were recognized by the Board of Supervisors, and a six-month severance and separation agreement was reached on December 5, 2025.

How much does Wise County fund the fire departments and EMS agencies?

Wise County currently funds approximately $1.1M being $75,000 per each agency.

How much money does the County budget to the school system? Can the amount be reduced?

$14.1M local funding. This amount is based on a formula provided by the State based on the number of students enrolled in the system. 

School debt is $4.9 million annually. 

Recently, there was a restructuring of school debt to partially defer payment for three years to allow the county to address the current budget and financial issues.

How many buildings does the County own and maintain?

Approximately 12 buildings including the Courthouse, the Justice Center, Court Service Unit, Extension Office, and Community Centers.

Why is the County doing new windows and HVAC in the Courthouse when they have no money?

The heating system on the older side of the Wise County Courthouse was a boiler system installed in the early 1900s. The coal boiler was converted to oil about 50 years ago and it was beginning to fail and could not pass inspection, and parts could not be found. The windows were part of this project, which is still a work in progress but once complete is anticipated to improve heating and cooling in that section of the courthouse. Other courthouse renovations including Administration Offices, Constitutional offices and Courtroom improvements were initially required because of Covid, and later in an effort to provide additional space and better work areas to increase operational efficiency. The work was performed by County staff. The money for these renovations is a loan that will be scheduled for repayment in 2028.

How much is the County paying for new vehicles?

The only vehicles being paid for currently are the Sheriff Office vehicles. The costs anticipated for the upcoming budget are approximately $689,646.00

Can the County save money by not allowing employees to take home vehicles?

Yes. The County is limiting take home vehicles over which they have control. Department heads that are subject to call out are the only employees approved to take home a vehicle (Animal Control, when on call, Maintenance Supervisor, Landfill Supervisor, and Building Official). The vehicles utilized by the EOC and Economic Development are not County funded vehicles. These vehicles are funded through a grant and through the Industrial Development Authority. The County does not have authority over vehicles assigned to a Constitutional Officer. The Clerk, Treasurer, and Commissioner of the Revenue do not have take home vehicles. The Commonwealth’s Attorney Office and the County Attorney share an assigned vehicle when needed.

Is the County changing the convenience center hours to save money?

That has been discussed but currently the convenience center hours will remain the same.

NOTICE

A Special Called meeting of the Wise County Board of Supervisors has been requested by two Board members for Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., in the conference room of the County Administrator’s Office located in the Wise County Courthouse for the purpose of reviewing and discussing applicants for the County Administrator position.

                                                                                                                                                     Karen T. Mullins

                                    Interim County Administrator

PUBLIC  NOTICE

The Wise County Board of Supervisors will hold a public hearing on April 9, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at the School Board Education Center, 628 Lake Street, Wise, VA to receive citizens’ comments on an amendment to Ordinance #7-1998 by increasing the bulk rate tipping fee for the disposal of tires at the Blackwood Landfill to $80.00 per ton. The individual tipping fee for passenger tires shall be $2.00 per tire. The individual tipping fee for truck tires up to 24 inches shall be $3.00 per tire. This Amended Ordinance shall become effective on July 1, 2026.

Karen T, Mullins

Interim County Administrator

Statement Release- Wise County Board of Supervisors

Wise County Board of Supervisors has been made aware of a post by the Wise County and City of Norton Sheriff regarding budget cut discussions. The Board fully supports all Public Safety, LEO, Fire and EMS. We encourage all citizens to attend Board meetings, call with questions, and review available budget information to ensure they have accurate and complete details.

It is important to clarify the Board of Supervisors does not have the authority to direct the Sheriff or his staff in operational decisions, including personnel assignments or programs such as School Resource Officers (SROs).

The Board has asked the Sheriff to evaluate his department for potential efficiencies and cost reductions.  The Sheriff’s Office total approved FY 26 budget is $11.6 Million. The County tax dollars are providing approximately $4.15 Million to the salaries and fringe benefits to the Sheriff’s Office and approximately another $2.26 Million to the operations of the department for a total contribution of $6.41 Million.

The Virginia Compensation Board has approved 51 positions for the Wise County Sheriff’s Office based on County population. The Sheriff’s Office employs 94 individuals. While the Sheriff’s Office is proactive in securing grant funding for additional positions, most of the grant funded positions require County match, some have a significant match which is funded by taxpayer dollars.

In addition, the County also funds multiple Sheriff’s positions 100% and provides supplemental pay to nearly all compensation board approved employees and grant funded positions. These supplemental monies total approximately $500,000 annually.

The SRO program is an important program as are all of the Sheriff programs and employees. In recent discussions, the Board has suggested several potential cost saving measures for consideration of the Sheriff, including suggestions of more efficient staffing of Compensation Board funded personnel and management of resources. However, as a constitutional officer, the Sheriff has sole authority over how his budget is allocated, including staffing, assignment, equipment, training and expenditures.

Wise County Board of Supervisors respectfully requests the Sheriff consider the County’s and county taxpayers’ current financial constraints and conduct a comprehensive review of staffing levels and expenditures across all divisions and departments, including vehicles, travel, equipment and non-essential and non-reimbursed overtime. The decision regarding SRO staffing rests solely with the Sheriff.

Wise County is facing serious budget challenges and remains committed to reviewing all departments to identify necessary reductions. Wise County has supported the SRO program for many years and hopes to continue.

Wise County Board of Supervisors has encouraged the Wise County School Board to become more involved and assist in funding SROs if grants are not received.

Please email questions, come to the Board meeting, call and discuss your concerns as many of the post’s responses are inaccurate and not factual. Anyone interested in information regarding the County budget and departmental budgets, and county expenses can email or check the County website.

J.H. Rivers, Chairman

Wise County Board of Supervisors

The Wise County Board of Supervisors is accepting applications for the position of County Administrator. This position is appointed and serves the pleasure of the Board of Supervisors. The County Administrator serves as chief administrative and operating officer and plans, directs and coordinates the overall operations of the County government.  

Job responsibilities include but are not limited to staffing and budgeting; advising and assisting the Board of Supervisors on operations and governance; planning, organizing and directing activities, services, programs and staff. 

Comprehensive knowledge of the principles, practices, and techniques of public or business administration including financial and personnel management; experience with leading and managing government and/or business operations preferred; must have a thorough knowledge of the basic laws, ordinances, and regulations underlying the local government and knowledge of state law related to public procurement. Must be able to communicate effectively orally and in writing, strong computer skills, ability to analyze complex information and make detailed decisions, work independently, build relationships with key strategic partners and organize and detail services and programs of County departments. 

Educational requirements include graduation from an accredited college or university with a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in business or public administration or related field. The successful candidate must be able to demonstrate experience and proven success in finance and budget, growth management, strategic planning, staff development and collaboration with residents and outside agencies. 

Salary will be based on experience and qualifications. Benefits include Virginia Retirement System, health, dental and vision insurance, vacation, sick leave and holidays. The County Administrator must reside in Wise County, Virginia. 

Please go to our website www.wisecounty.gov, Click “I Want To”, click “Apply for” and select “Employment Opportunities” then select “Local: Jobs with the County of Wise”. Under Tools on the right, download the application and complete it. 

Mail your completed application and resume to: Chairman, Wise County Board of Supervisors, P. O. Box 570, Wise, VA 24293. 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 21, 2026 

Contact: Jessica Swinney, Swinney_j@wisecountyva.gov 

Wise County Office of Emergency Management 

WISE COUNTY ENCOURAGES RESIDENTS TO REGISTER FOR NEW RESIDENT ALERT SYSTEM AHEAD OF WINTER STORM WATCH 

Wise County officials are encouraging all residents to register for the new Wise County Resident Alert System, which is replacing the CodeRED notification system, as a Winter Storm Watch has been issued for this upcoming weekend, January 24 through January 25, 2026. 

The new alert system will provide timely and important notifications related to severe winter weather, road conditions, public safety incidents, and other critical information affecting the community. By enrolling, residents can receive alerts through multiple methods, including phone calls, text messages, and emails, based on their personal preferences. 

With the Winter Storm Watch in effect, officials stress the importance of having multiple ways to receive emergency notifications. Weather conditions can change rapidly and receiving alerts through more than one method helps ensure residents do not miss critical updates needed to prepare homes, plan travel, and take appropriate safety precautions. 

Residents are also encouraged to closely monitor local weather forecasts and make a plan accordingly. Preparedness guidance, including how to create an emergency plan for winter weather, is available at www.ready.gov/plan. 

Residents who were previously registered with CodeRED are reminded that they must sign up for the new Wise County Resident Alert System to continue receiving notifications. 

Participation in the Wise County Resident Alert System is free, and all personal contact information will be used solely for emergency notification purposes. 

Residents are urged to take a few minutes to register now and stay informed and prepared as winter weather approaches this weekend. 

For more information or to sign up, residents should visit the Wise County Member Portal powered by Everbridge at https://member.everbridge.net/index/76589467435188  You can also scan this QR code to register from your smartphone:  

FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT

September 9, 2025

Mr. Michael Hatfield

County of Wise, VirginiaWise County Courthouse, Suite 223Wise, VA 24293(276) 328-2321

This Notice shall satisfy the above-cited procedural notification requirement.

FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT

The County of Wise has determined that the Upper Guest River Sewer Extension Phase I Project will have no significant impact on the human environment. Therefore, an Environmental Impact Statement under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) is not required. Additional project information is contained in the Environmental Review Record (ERR) on file at the Wise County Public Service Authority located at 5622 Industrial Park Rd, Norton, VA 24273 and/or the Wise County Courthouse in the County Administrator’s Office, located at the Wise County Courthouse, Suite 223 Wise, VA 24293 and may be examined or copied weekdays 8 A.M. to 4:30 P.M.

PUBLIC COMMENTS

Any individual, group, or agency disagreeing with this determination or wishing to comment on the project may submit written comments to the Wise County Administrator’s Office. All comments received by October 9, 2025 will be considered by the Wise County Board of Supervisors prior to authorizing submission of a request for release of funds. Commenter's should specify which part of this Notice they are addressing.

Michael Hatfield, County Administrator

FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT - Upper Guest River Sewer Extension Phase I

EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY

Construction and woody debris will no longer be accepted at the Indian Creek Convenience Center in Pound, Virginia. Disposal of household waste is only allowed during operating hours and can no longer be dumped across from the convenience center. Signs and barriers have been put in place and the area is being monitored. Wise County has already begun enforcement for illegal dumping.

All construction debris or woody debris must be taken to the Blackwood Landfill or to another center that accepts such waste.

Wise County is accepting applications from qualified candidates for the position of Assistant Public Works Director.

NOTICE OF AWARD PURSUANT TO 2.2-4303(E) & (F)

The Wise County Board of Supervisors has determined that an emergency exists and that only one source is practically available to provide the roof system repair and/or replacement immediately necessary to property secure the Courthouse facility located at 206 E. Main Street, Wise, Virginia. This determination of emergency and sole source recognizes the urgent need created by the significant leaks and seepage into the Courthouse facility. These circumstances require this immediate award for the above services to LaFerney Commercial Roofing for the sum of $493,660.00. Staff have reviewed and evaluated the exigent and immediate needs to secure the facility and viability of other vendors and time frame for completion of services and determined that LaFerney Commercial Roofing is the only available and appropriate vendor. Wise County did attempt to procure other vendors for this project and due to the immediate need and requirement for heat welded shingles no vendors were responsive. The selected vendor is immediately available and recognizes that time is of the essence and is awarded the contract for services on April 11, 2025.

Comprehensive listing of assistance and relief resources for residents impacted by Hurricane Helene.

Comcast has put together a one pager to include contact methods, bill payment options and equipment return information

Wise County emergency management officials urge citizens impacted by flood damage to self-report their property damage through the Virginia Department of Emergency Management’s (VDEM) CrisisTrack tool. This information will help assess the full extent of local damage and support recovery efforts.

How to Report Flood Damage:

Access the Self-Reporting Site:

Click the link: https://crisistrack.juvare.com/public/VDEM/request.html

Choose the Type of Report:

• Residential Damage
• Commercial/Industrial Damage

Enter Your Address and Zip Code

Provide Detailed Information:

• Description: Briefly describe the damage.
• Photos or Videos: Upload images or videos to assist damage assessment.

Complete Property and Contact Information:

• Indicate whether you have homeowner’s insurance.
• If reporting business damage, provide the business name.
• Fill in required contact details.

Review and Submit Your Report

Accurate and timely reporting helps Virginia recover faster and more efficiently.