<bt>Rising property taxes are one of the most pressing issues facing our community. Over the last five years, average homeowners have seen their property taxes rise by almost 50 percent. This has been a particular burden on seniors who live on fixed incomes — many of whom are being taxed out of their homes.
This is a vital issue in my campaign for delegate because under Virginia law, the General Assembly has control over the taxing authority of county governments. Our next delegate will help decide how Fairfax County will meet its revenue needs for public education, transportation, police and other critical services.
Currently, the General Assembly forces counties to rely too heavily on property taxes. It's time we untie the hands of our county supervisors so they can reduce the tax burden on homeowners. Fairfax County should be allowed to find new sources of revenue so homeowners don't have to bear so much of the tax burden. In order to lower property taxes, Fairfax County should have the option of raising more revenue from a county cigarette tax and a hotel tax.
Compared to other counties, Fairfax County doesn't get its fair share of state funding for schools and transportation. We receive less than 30 cents for every dollar we pay in state taxes. In Richmond, I will be a tireless advocate for Fairfax County so we get our fair share of state funding. This will help us hold the line on property taxes.
My tax plan has received praise from Democrats and Republicans in our community, including business leaders, teachers, police and labor unions. I have received the official endorsements of the Fairfax County Chamber of Commerce, Virginia Education Association, Fairfax Coalition of Police, Fairfax County Deputy Sheriffs Association and Virginia AFL-CIO.
Unfortunately, the "tax pledges" my opponent has signed would continue the trend of rising property taxes. He supports a plan that will increase property tax bills by as much as 5 percent every year. He refuses to consider any alternatives that would ease the burden on homeowners. I find this unacceptable.
If we do not institute fundamental tax reform for counties, homeowners will continue to pay higher property taxes with no relief in sight. As your next delegate, I will make controlling property taxes a top priority.