Final public hearing held on real estate tax hike

April 7, 2026 - 05:26

The Charlottesville City Council convened its last scheduled public hearing this week, offering residents a final opportunity to voice opinions on a proposed real estate tax increase. The measure under discussion would raise the tax rate by two cents per $100 of assessed value.

The hearing featured diverse perspectives from the community. Proponents of the increase argued the additional revenue is essential for funding critical public services, including schools, infrastructure projects, and public safety initiatives. They emphasized that the funds are needed to maintain and improve city amenities and address budgetary shortfalls.

Opponents, however, expressed significant concern about the cumulative financial burden on homeowners, particularly those on fixed incomes or facing rising living costs. Many residents urged the council to seek alternative budget solutions or to trim existing expenditures rather than imposing a higher tax rate.

City Council members listened to the testimony but did not take immediate action following the hearing. The proposed tax hike is part of the broader city budget deliberations for the upcoming fiscal year. A final vote on the budget, which will include a decision on the tax rate, is expected in the coming weeks after the council reviews all public feedback and conducts further financial analysis.