Homeowners urge Arlington County to reconsider rising real estate tax rates

The Arlington County Board held a meeting on March 27, 2025, to discuss the proposed tax rate for the Fiscal Year 2026 budget. A key focus of the meeting was the impact of rising property values on local homeowners and the implications for tax revenue.

During the meeting, it was highlighted that property values in Arlington County have increased by over 15% in the past seven years, with significant growth observed particularly from 2020 to the present. This rise in property values has led to increased tax revenue, as homeowners have been paying higher real estate taxes annually.

One speaker, expressing concern over the proposed tax rate increase, argued that it does not make sense to further burden homeowners who are already facing rising taxes. The speaker urged the county to explore alternative revenue sources rather than relying on increasing real estate taxes, warning that continued tax hikes could drive residents out of Arlington County. This, in turn, could lead to a decrease in property values and ultimately reduce tax revenue.

The discussion underscored the ongoing challenges faced by the county in balancing budget needs with the financial pressures on homeowners. As the meeting concluded, the board was encouraged to reconsider its approach to funding the budget without further increasing the tax rate on residents.