Author: S. Reeves

The monthly Town Council meeting was held on February 10, 2026.

In honor of Black History Month, Betty Wallace gave a special presentation on local and regional history. Betty traced the roots of the black community in Tazewell to its origins of slavery, noting the difficulty in tracing this heritage due to a lack of record keeping in that time period and the practice of forcibly renaming the enslaved people with their owners’ surnames. She recounted stories from history passed down through traditions, books, and poetry, and noted the accomplishments of the black community, notably those depicted on the Standing Tall and Proud mural on Tazewell’s Main Street. Betty has been a longstanding supporter of the local annual Juneteenth celebration, and we appreciate her community spirit and dedication.

Town Council recognized former Mayor, Michael Hoops, for his service to our community. Michael served as Mayor from January 1, 2019, through October 7, 2025. Mayor Joe Beasley assisted Michael with the placement of his portrait on the wall in the Town Council Chambers to commemorate this moment and presented him with a watch and plaque in appreciation.

In recognition of national FBLA week, Mayor Beasley and fellow Town Councilmembers proclaimed February 8 – 14, 2026, as FBLA Week in the Town of Tazewell through this resolution:

WHEREAS, Future Business Leaders of America is a nonprofit educational organization whose first chapter was established in Johnson City, Tennessee, in 1942; and
WHEREAS, Iowa became FBLA’s first state chapter in 1947; and
WHEREAS, Tazewell High School officially chartered its FBLA local chapter in 1953 under the leadership of Mrs. William Bundy and Mrs. John Kulick; and
WHEREAS, FBLA includes more than 250,000 members and advisers in 4,600 chapters nationwide in middle schools, high schools, colleges, universities, career and technical schools, and private business schools; and
WHEREAS, FBLA is a professional business organization dedicated to bringing business and education together in a positive working relationship through innovative leadership and career development programs; and
WHEREAS, FBLA members perform community service activities and strive to build a student’s understanding of the realities of the modern business world; and
WHEREAS, FBLA teaches middle school, high school, and college students, business and leadership principles, and assists them in the transition from school to work;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Joseph R. Beasley, Mayor of the Town of Tazewell, do hereby proclaim February 8 – 14, 2026, as FBLA Week in Tazewell, Virginia.

Pam Meade, Executive Director of the Tazewell County Chamber of Commerce, presented a request to Town Council to hold the annual Oktobrewfest event on Main Street again this year, which was approved. Oktobrewfest will be held on Saturday, October 3, 2026.

John Rhudy, newly elected as the Tazewell County Board of Supervisor’s Southern District Supervisor, came before Town Council to introduce himself in this role. He looks forward to possible collaborative efforts and strengthening the relationship between Town and County.

Litz VanDyke came before Council to present the donation of a property located on Railroad Avenue to the Town of Tazewell. Litz represents the estate of his mother Bettye VanDyke, who was a treasured community member that served on Town Council and as Vice Mayor over the years. Bettye took great pride in historical preservation, performing key roles in many area projects. The Railroad Avenue property is the former home of Dr. “Doc” Jack W. Witten, who served in Virginia’s House of Delegates and the Virginia Senate. His most memorable and cherished role, though, was that of surrogate parent to over 150 young men that he raised in this home over his life. Roger Pike was one of the many children to benefit from Doc Witten’s generosity and gave a presentation that conveyed the importance of remembering the contributions he made to our community. Roger attributed the many successes achieved by “Doc’s Boys” to Doc Witten and to Maggie Rose Horton Bandy, who raised not only her own children, but helped with the many who called the Railroad Avenue property home. Town Council voted to graciously accept this donation and its stipulation that the property preserve and demonstrate this history.

As part of their efforts to support local businesses, Town Council recognized Vickie Boothe, owner of Between Friends Gifts. With an upcoming anniversary of twenty years in business, Vickie was one of the first businesses to invest in Tazewell’s Main Street during its revitalization over the past decade by relocating her business to its 293 Main Street location. Vickie’s dedication to her community also led to several treasured area happenings that she originally spearheaded, from Trunk-or-Treat to the Farm-to-Table event. We commend Vickie on her community spirit and wish her business continued success!

The monthly Town Council meeting was held on January 13, 2026.

As part of their ongoing efforts to acknowledge the efforts made by those investing in our community, Town Council recognized new business Mountain Laurel Mercantile and Hardware. Their diverse offerings range from an old fashion mercantile, to a gift store, bookstore, and hardware store, all under one roof. Operated by Renee and Darren Adair, Mountain Laurel Mercantile is located at 1676 Fincastle Turnpike.

After review of the applicants for the Councilmember seat left by the recent shift from Council to Mayor made by Mayor Beasley, Town Council selected Elisabeth Takach to fill the vacancy. Charity Hurst, the Tazewell County Clerk of Court, swore in newly appointed Councilmember Takach, who will fill role until the regular election in November 2026. Congratulations to Councilmember Takach on this appointment!

The monthly Town Council meeting was held on December 9, 2025.

Charity Hurst, the Tazewell County Clerk of Court, swore in newly appointed Mayor Joe Beasley. Mayor Beasley was selected by Town Council at their December 1st meeting and will transition from his current Councilmember position. Congratulations Mayor Beasley!

Chief of Police Lampert, along with Town Council, recognized and gave their appreciation to the Tazewell County Moose Lodge #198. Members of the lodge recently donated $16,464.84 to the Town of Tazewell Police Department for the purchase of new firearms, holsters, magazines, and ammunition. We applaud their support for our town and its safety and thank Tazewell County Moose Lodge #198 for being a wonderful community partner.

The monthly Town Council meeting was held on November 18, 2025.

Charity Hurst, the Tazewell County Clerk of Court, swore in recently elected Councilmember, Glen Keen. Councilmember Keen comes into this position as a member of the Town of Tazewell’s Industrial/Economic Development Authority (I/EDA) and we welcome him to the Town of Tazewell’s Town Council.

Town Council recognized former Mayor, Donald Buchanan, for his service to our community. Mr. Buchanan served as a member of Town Council from July 2002 through January 2010, as Vice Mayor from January 2010 through December 2011, and then as Mayor from December 2011 through December 2018. Vice Mayor Joe Beasley assisted Mr. Buchanan with the placement of his portrait on the wall in the Town Council Chambers to commemorate this moment.

Town Council also recognized former Councilmember, Emily Combs Davis. Mrs. Davis served on Town Council from January 2019 through June 2025 and presently serves her community as Executive Director of Tazewell Today.

Chief of Police Stanley Lampert recognized several members of the Tazewell Police Department:

• New Officers Ethan Mills and Hunter Jones, both recent academy graduates
• Office Assistant Robert Morgan for his recent grant application success for the Shop with a Hero program and software procurement
• Office Melissa Woodard, for her recent grant application success for shower facilities for the new Police Department location
• Deputy Chief of Police William Lowe, for the recent completion of a three-part training program, enhancing his skillset through leadership academy, and successful grant applications, including one for their drone
• Police Department Accreditation & Grants Manager Shawn Hurd, for being selected as the Accreditation Manager of the Year for the state of Virginia.

Job well done to each!

The monthly Town Council meeting was held on October 14, 2025

The monthly Town Council meeting was held on September 9, 2025

Manager Regon introduced several new Town of Tazewell employees: Recreation Director Kenneth Hicks, and Customer Service Associates Samantha Pruett and Cynthia Harman. She also recognized Victoria Smith on her recent promotion to Accounts Payable Clerk.

In other actions, Town Council designated Vice Mayor Beasley as Council Representative on the Four Seasons YMCA board of directors, along with approving a Resolution of Support for the Billy Wagner Park project.

The monthly Town Council meeting was held on August 12, 2025.

Commendation for Heroism
Presented to Joe D’Amato

The Town of Tazewell proudly recognizes Mr. Joe D’Amato for his extraordinary courage and selfless heroism displayed on June 22, 2025, on the New River in the vicinity of Narrows, Virginia. His actions exemplify the highest ideals of community spirit and bravery, and we are honored to acknowledge his profound impact.

On the afternoon of June 22, 2025, in the vicinity of Narrows, a perilous situation unfolded on the swift waters of the New River. At approximately 350 yards distance, an overturned kayak was spotted, indicating an immediate emergency. Without hesitation, Mr. D’Amato and his companions maneuvered their rafts downstream into the treacherous currents to assess the situation.

They discovered an elderly woman in grave danger, trapped in the current and clutching the branches of a downed tree. Recognizing the critical nature of the situation and the immediate threat to the woman’s life, Mr. D’Amato made the courageous decision to risk his own. He selflessly jumped from his boat into the powerful current, swimming through the rapids to reach the embankment. From there, he skillfully navigated over numerous boulders, reaching the downed tree where the woman was ensnared.

Mr. D’Amato positioned himself securely within the tree and, despite the hazardous conditions and strong current, secured the distressed woman for approximately ten minutes. His unwavering resolve and physical endurance in the face of such danger were instrumental in preventing further harm. His heroic efforts continued until a civilian fishing boat was able to safely maneuver into a position where the woman could be successfully retrieved from the river.

Mr. D’Amato’s actions on June 22, 2025, demonstrate exceptional bravery, quick thinking, and an unshakeable commitment to human life. His willingness to put himself in harm’s way to save another is a testament to his remarkable character and a shining example for our entire community.

The Town of Tazewell extends its deepest gratitude and profound admiration to Joe D’Amato for his act of heroism. His courageous intervention undoubtedly saved a life and brings immense pride to our town.

Town Council approved a $900 contribution to the Tazewell Youth Football League for general expenses and wished them a wonderful 2025 season!

Town Council reviewed a support request from the Billy Wagner Park Committee and opted to table the request until the September 9th meeting, to give them an opportunity to review the submitted request in more detail.

Megan Doane and Felicia Williams, of Southwest Virginia Community Health Systems, invited Town Council and area residents to participate in their upcoming Walk to Recovery, part of their New Day Recovery Program.  The Walk to Recovery will happen on Monday, September 29, 2025, at Lincolnshire Park. For more information, call (276)496-4492, or visit their website at https://www.svchs.com

Nathan Thomas, President of local Main Street revitalization organization Tazewell Today, presented event requests to Town Council for several upcoming Main Street events. They have a few more fun events planned for the community as summer is winding down:

• Fourth Friday, happening Friday, August 22 from 6:00 pm through 9:00 pm on Main Street

• Summer Sendoff set for Saturday, September 6th from 4:00 pm through 9:00 pm on Main Street

Town Council recognized new local business Peak Valley Wealth, congratulating Zachary Cline and Ben Shrader on their new endeavor. Located at 242 Main Street, Peak Valley Wealth dedicated to helping individuals and families secure their financial futures. Peak Valley Wealth offers advisory services related to investment portfolios, retirement, college education, charitable giving, and more. They aim to integrate investments, retirement planning, tax strategies, and estate planning into a cohesive plan tailored to their clients’ goals.

The monthly Town Council meeting was held on July 8, 2025.

Town Council approved a $500 contribution to the Tazewell High School Marching Band for expenses related to their upcoming season and band camp. Best of luck to the THS Marching Band as they prepare for the 2025 competition season!

Town Council recognized new local business The Wayfarer, welcoming owner Donna Roberts to Tazewell. Located at 386 Main Street, The Wayfarer offers several incredible amenities, including a restaurant, mercantile, and multiple stages for live musical performances. Described as “a gathering place for locals, travelers, music lovers, and memory makers,” we are appreciative of their investment in our community and wish them great success!

The monthly Town Council meeting was held on June 10, 2025.

At the meeting, Charity Hurst came before Town Council to share information about a tribute being planned for Billy Wagner by her and fellow committee members. Billy is a Tazewell High School graduate who has received exceptional notice worldwide for his baseball pitching skills first as a Virginia Sports Hall of Famer, then as a National College Baseball Hall of Famer, a Houston Astros Hall of Famer, and now as a National Baseball Hall of Famer after his induction set for July 27th in Cooperstown, New York. The local committee is proposing a statue of Billy to be located in the Main Street Mini Park, and are currently working on fundraising efforts for this project.

Kondwani Patterson, Executive Director of Each One Teach 1, Inc., along with fellow board member Brittany Davis, came before Town Council to share their vision for an Affordable Housing Partnership. Kondwani’s proposal includes construction by EOT1 of affordable duplex units on property presently owned by Tazewell County and will be working with Tazewell County and the Tazewell County I/EDA to solicit grant funding if the county approves of his proposal.

During the Councilmember Comments section of the meeting, Councilmember Emily Combs Davis announced her resignation from Town Council. Councilmember Davis joined Town Council in 2018, serving a full term prior to her current one. Fellow Councilmembers expressed their gratitude for her time on Town Council and wished her well with her future plans. Town Council will announce their plan for filling the vacancy left her departure, after Attorney Pyott advises them of the guidelines provided by the Town Charter and requirements set forth by the Registrar’s Office.