Fincastle, Virginia, hadn’t changed its boundaries since 1772. But when elected leaders first attempted to expand acreage and population a few years ago, the effort stumbled. Many in the town of about 300 people rejected the idea. What happened during the second attempt? The latest episode of Save Our Towns shares the story.

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Also in the episode, viewers will see some stunning views of former coal-mining land that has been converted to new uses – including near the Devil’s Bathtub in Southwest Virginia – in the Small Town Big Number segment. Money to pay for projects typically flows from grants, including Virginia’s $10 million Abandoned Mine Land Pilot Program, which recently announced an Oct. 31 deadline for a new round of applications.

Rounding out the episode are a Glade Spring update, an expert tip on devising a tourism strategy, and Three Questions for a Mayor with Wayne Craig of Abingdon, Virginia. Craig explains why a proposed new land development in town sparked controversy.

Save Our Towns is produced by Outreach and International Affairs and distributed to mayors and town managers throughout Appalachian Virginia and beyond.

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