Appearance Commission Reports Productive Year To Smithfield Council

SMITHFIELD – The Smithfield Town Council heard the annual report of the Smithfield Appearance Commission at its Dec. 16 meeting, with Appearance Commission Vice Chairman Emery Ashley Jr. presenting highlights from 2025 activities on behalf of Chairperson Kaitlyn Tarley.

Ashley reviewed the commission’s mission under the Smithfield Appearance Ordinance, which focuses on enhancing the town’s visual character by promoting neighborhood pride, discouraging blight, advising on public property appearance, and encouraging coordinated landscaping, tree preservation, and attractive community entrances.

No funds were spent this year from the JB & JP George Beautification Endowments. As of June 30, 2025, the JB George Endowment balance stood at $3,990.08, while the JP George Endowment held $1,039.10.

From its general fund, the Appearance Commission spent $13,505 on completed projects and encumbered an additional $14,266.81 for approved projects not yet finished.

Major completed projects included continued maintenance and redesign of the Town Hall planters in collaboration with the Downtown Smithfield Development Commission, helping reduce costs while maintaining a polished appearance. The planter work totaled $4,500.

The commission also completed a comprehensive Bartlett Tree Survey and Inventory, updating a study last conducted in the 1980s. The survey documents existing trees and provides guidance for future plantings. Replacement landscaping was also completed at Sunset Cemetery at a cost of $1,005.

The Donate-A-Tree program continued, allowing residents to honor or memorialize individuals through tree plantings placed based on community need. The program was updated with revised brochures and new tiered donation options.

Looking ahead, the commission outlined plans for 2026–2027 emphasizing partnerships with Public Works, Parks and Recreation, the Garden Club, the Johnston County Public Library, the Johnston County Art Commission, and local schools. Planned efforts include murals, art installations, alleyway improvements, a redesigned library corner, and community garden projects.

A key long-term initiative is the “95 on 95” vision, which aims to enhance aesthetics along Market Street from Interstate 95’s Exit 95 (US 70) into downtown Smithfield. The project is intended to create welcoming entrances and encourage travelers to stop and experience the community. Mr. Ashley closed by thanking town staff, council members, and community partners for their continued support.