The Sylva town board meeting has seen updates to budget ordinances that govern expenses related to two significant town projects.
One of these projects is the downtown public restroom, designed to evoke the charm of Sylva’s historic train depot. This project has received funding, with town leaders allocating approximately $390,000 for its completion.
The budget breakdown includes around $32,500 for professional services, primarily covering the fees for Architect Odell Thompson. An additional $50,000 is allocated for utility relocation, while the construction costs are estimated at approximately $269,000. Notably, the town has secured a favorable long-term lease agreement with the Blue Ridge Southern Railroad, amounting to $10,000 for a 99-year term, set to expire on August 31, 2122. Furthermore, a $28,000 contingency fund has been included in the budget for unforeseen circumstances.
To finance this project, the town plans to utilize $350,000 from two State Capital and Infrastructure Grant Funds, supplemented by an additional $40,000 from the Southwestern Commission Council of Government.
