Fairfax County Budget Markup Cuts Tax Rate, Boosts Employee Pay

FAIRFAX COUNTY, VA — The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors voted Tuesday to approve a markup package for the county’s fiscal year 2023 that reduces the real estate tax rate and covers increases in funding for affordable housing and raises for county employees.

In the markup, the board approved a 3-cent real estate tax rate decrease for homeowners, from $1.14 to $1.11 per $100 of assessed value, lowering the initial proposal by Fairfax County Executive Bryan Hill.

The board said it recognizes that the rate reduction still represents an average increase of 6.7 percent in real estate taxes and is “mindful of what this means for county residents," according to a news release issued Tuesday by Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Chairman Jeffrey McKay.

The average residential property owner in Fairfax County will see an increase of $465 in their annual tax bill.

The board also agreed to a 15-percent reduction in the assessment of personal property, the first time this has been done in Fairfax County, which will limit any increases due to the unprecedented appreciation of used vehicle values during the pandemic.

“This budget is about balance,” McKay said in a statement. “We are ensuring the county makes smart financial decisions to support services for our residents while being mindful of soaring residential assessments and the financial strain so many are facing in our community.”

McKay noted that the board expanded the county’s program to help seniors on limited income who may have difficulty paying their tax bills.

The board was able to fully fund the transfer request to Fairfax County Public Schools, which allows for capital improvements, increased staff pay and support for support staff such as school nurses.

The markup package includes a 4-percent pay increase for all county employees. All eligible Police, Fire and Rescue, and Sheriff uniformed employees will also receive an additional step increase which, combined with longevity increases, could total a 14-percent pay increase.

Acknowledging its increased goal of 10,000 affordable units by 2034, the board also included another $10 million for affordable housing.

“While Fairfax County has weathered the pandemic storm well, we know that the full economic recovery takes time, and many will need continued support,” McKay said.

“The Board worked hard to balance the growing demands for affordable housing, community services, and infrastructure improvements along with compensation for our County employees, especially our brave first responders, and a commitment to fully fund the Fairfax County Public Schools,” he said.

The Board of Supervisors voted to approve nearly $100 million in funding for the county’s Parks system, including more than $750,000 in additional support for a natural resources sustainability effort and $500,000 for a pilot equity program.

The board voted 9-1 to approve the markup package. Springfield Supervisor Pat Herrity voted against the markup package. A vote on the final budget is scheduled for May 10.

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