BOONES MILL (WSLS10) - A major economic milestone for a Franklin County town that has set new goals to spark growth in the local economy.
The Boones Mill Town Council has passed the town's first-ever 5-year comprehensive plan.
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Town Manager Matt Lawless said the comprehensive plan sets goals which include designating property to become an industrial park to recruit new businesses to the area.
The vision statements at the front of the plan are, "Boones Mill is a quaint small town. It thrives in its historical role as the hub of a rural community. Residents and visitors enjoy traditional neighborhoodsand successful small businesses. Boones Mill is a gateway, welcoming all to Franklin County and Southwest Virginia. We celebrate our culture and community."
Council also discussed the possibility of recruiting a new craft brewery to help make the town more of a tourist destination.
According to Lawless, the Town Council began the plan update process in 2014 with interim town manager George Nester. Lawless completed the plan process in his first six months with the Town.
"It's important that we have a clear game plan and know what success for a small town looks like. Having consensus among council and community is vital," Lawless said.
Lawless says the plan outlines strong fundamentals for economic growth in the region. "Unemployment has fallen, the workforce is growing, and there is a diversity of industries in both Franklin and neighboring Roanoke County. Boones Mill's convenient location on US 220 makes it a great place to live and do business," Lawless said.
The Town's priority projects for plan implementation include renovating a vacant industrial building for new small businesses, restoring the historic train depot, and holding community events such as a farmers market to improve quality of life. Partnership with local businesses, community groups, and neighboring governments is essential for success.
"Our plan aligns very well with what Rocky Mount and Franklin County have in mind. We're in this together," Lawless said.