In 1997, Smyth County joined forces with the Town of Saltville to improve the wastewater collection and treatment system in the Saltville and Allison Gap area.

Construction began in June of 2004, when the localities and funding agencies commenced groundbreaking of this $8,190,000 project. On August 11^th, 2005, the participants reassembled to celebrate the completed accomplishment and teamwork that made this project a success. Attendees participated in a plaque dedication at the wastewater treatment plant, and continued the celebration at the historic Saltville Golf Club.

Anderson & Associates worked with the Town of Saltville, County of Smyth, and the Mt. Rogers Planning District Commission as plans for improvements developed during the engineering phase. With the help of Congressman Rick Boucher’s office, an extensive funding package was crafted, bringing together a combination of five agencies to make this project a true success. The funding for this project was made possible by U.S. Department of Agriculture - Rural Development grants and loans, a Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development grant, a Southeast Rural Community Assistance Project (SE-R/CAP) grant, a Virginia Department of Environmental Quality grant, and a Virginia Tobacco Commission grant. In addition, the Town and County also contributed funding to the project effort.

Human Resources Manager Courtney Bremner joined the ESOP Advisory Committee hoping that her experience communicating daily with all levels of employees would help her in her role as a committee member.

Courtney feels that the time following the buyout will be a great time to participate with the committee. "I think the role of the committee will become more important as we communicate what is really going financially in the company and as we explain the true responsibilities of employee owners," she said.