Fairfax County Meals Tax: Coalition Backs Passage

FAIRFAX COUNTY, VA -- Invest in Fairfax, a coalition of community groups and stakeholders dedicated to improving the quality of life for all those who live, work, play and do business in Fairfax County, has launched the Vote Yes Meals Tax campaign, the group announced Wednesday.

Fairfax County voters will have to choose whether to vote on a 4 percent meals tax question Nov. 8. A Meals Tax is an idea that is new to many Fairfax County voters. Surrounding counties, as well as the towns of Vienna, Herndon and the City of Fairfax have all had meals taxes for years, according to Invest in Fairfax.

Another group, which doesn't identify its members, is opposing the tax.

“For just a few pennies more, we can support our kids, keep our community safe and vibrant, and relieve homeowners,” said Kimberly Adams, president of the Fairfax County Council of PTAs and Vote Yes Meals Tax campaign chair. “We’re asking voters to get informed, get involved, and get out to vote.”

The Vote Yes Meals Tax campaign will educate the voting public about the Meals Tax ballot question. More than a dozen organizations are asking their members to get behind the effort. Citizens can learn more online at:

• yesmealstax.org
• facebook.com/InvestInFairfax
• twitter.com/InvestInFairfax

The Vote Yes Meals Tax campaign is a coordinated effort by a wide range of organizations including:

• Arts Council of Fairfax County
• Fairfax County Council of PTAs
• Fairfax County Federation of Citizens Associations
• Fairfax County Federation of Teachers
• Fairfax County Professional Firefighters & Paramedics
• Fairfax Education Association
• Fairfax FLAGs
• Fairfax Meals Tax Dine Out
• Fraternal Order of Police
• #IamFCPS
• League of Women Voters
• Northern Virginia Labor Federation
• Service Employees International Union

“This is really a win-win for everyone in our community,” said David Edelman, Invest in Fairfax chair. “Voting yes on this referendum is a vote to prevent property tax hikes and protect our schools, as well as support health, safety and other human services that support our quality of life in the county.”

If the majority of voters approve the meals tax, the Board of Supervisors will dedicate the revenues to two purposes, which are specified in the ballot question: 70 percent of the net revenues would be dedicated to Fairfax County Public Schools, and 30 percent of the net revenues would be dedicated to county services, capital improvements and property tax relief.

If approved by voters, the meals tax is estimated to generate approximately $99 million in the first year – with 28 percent of that amount coming from non-county residents.

What is a Meals Tax?

A meals tax is a tax on all ready-to-eat prepared food and beverages at restaurants, as well as grocery stores, convenience stores, and delicatessens, as well as prepared food served at food trucks.

The meals tax does not apply to groceries. However, it does include ready-to-eat foods, for example, food from the deli counter or salad bar at a supermarket/grocery store. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages served with a meal are included in the meals tax. Vending machines are exempt from the meals tax.

Meals tax rates in surrounding jurisdictions

• Alexandria: 4 percent
• Arlington: 4 percent
• Falls Church: 4 percent
• Fairfax City: 4 percent
• Herndon: 2.5 percent
• Vienna: 3 percent
• District of Columbia: 10 percent

Based upon state law, the county’s meals tax would not apply in the towns of Herndon, Vienna or Clifton. The Town of Clifton does not have a meals tax.

Find out more about the proposed meals tax from the County here.

PHOTO: Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Chair Sharon Bulova holds up a sign touting the proposed meals tax; photo courtesy of Bulova