GLEN LYN, Va. (WDBJ) – Glen Lyn is a town many would consider a drive-through town.
With just two convenience stores, two churches, and an abandoned power plant, the town covers less than two miles and holds a population of under 100. But for those 100 people, it’s home.
“This neighborhood has nice people who take care of you and all. They take care of everything,” said Roger Lawson, a longtime resident of Glen Lyn.
Lawson has lived in Glen Lyn for nearly three decades. He’s watched it struggle throughout the years, from the AEP plant going dark to losing the police and fire departments. But to him, it’s still a town full of fond memories.
“I wouldn’t have it no other way, there’s no other place I would want to live,” said Lawson.
Tuesday, it’s residents like Lawson who voted to decide whether their home will remain a town, voting on this question: “Shall the charter for the Town of Glen Lyn be annulled and repealed?”
Giles County Attorney Richard Chidester said town management came to the county over a year ago, saying there was no longer enough tax revenue to support Glen Lyn, and its best option was to become an unincorporated community of Giles County.
Very few towns around Virginia have done this, and it was certainly a first for Chidester.
“Council decided it was in the best interest of the citizens of the town for this to occur and so it’s up to them at this point,” he said.
Residents spent the day voting in the town municipal building. Voters who have lived in Glen Lyn their whole lives told WDBJ it’s sad their hometown could lose its name.
But others like Lawson said they would be happier with the county taking over.
“I myself think it’s a good idea and all,” said Lawson. “A lot of people have to pay the town taxes and the county taxes, and that’s not right.”
And even though the name “Glen Lyn” would be lost, Lawson has no doubt the area will be the same place he’s always called home.
“I can see how other people might be upset, but I can’t see how it could hurt. It’s a real nice place and I really enjoy living here,” he said.
Voting closed at 7 p.m. Tuesday, and as of an hour later, unofficial results from the county indicated 27 votes for dissolving the town and only six to keep it.
Chidester said if the town decides to annul the charter, it will take some time before any official changes are made.
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