Louisa County board reviews $188.4M budget with no tax increase plans

The Louisa County Board of Supervisors convened on April 7, 2025, for a crucial public hearing focused on the proposed fiscal year 2026 budget. The meeting highlighted significant financial adjustments and priorities that will shape the county's operations in the coming year.

The proposed budget stands at $188.4 million, reflecting an operating increase of nearly $18.7 million, or approximately 12%. Notably, the county is not recommending any tax increases, which may provide some relief to residents amid rising costs. The budget anticipates an operating surplus of $10.2 million, alongside capital projects totaling $13.5 million.

Key revenue sources include property taxes, which remain the largest contributor, alongside increases in local taxes and fees, particularly from anticipated permits related to Amazon's operations in the area. The budget also projects a significant rise in interest revenue due to unspent bond funds, which is expected to bolster the county's financial position.

On the expenditure side, education remains the largest budget item, followed by public safety and human services. The budget includes a 3% salary increase for county employees, aligning with state recommendations, and provisions for bonuses and additional staffing in critical areas such as fire and emergency services. The board emphasized that while the number of new positions for fire and EMS has been reduced from 13 to 10, funding for existing vacancies is fully accounted for, ensuring that staffing levels can be adjusted as needed throughout the year.

The meeting also addressed capital projects, with significant allocations for technology upgrades, public safety equipment, and infrastructure improvements, including bridge repairs and wastewater treatment enhancements. The board is committed to maintaining a strong financial foundation, with a current general fund balance of approximately $16.7 million.

In conclusion, the proposed budget reflects Louisa County's strategic priorities, balancing the need for essential services with fiscal responsibility. As the board continues to refine the budget in response to incoming state and federal revenue updates, community members can expect ongoing discussions about how these financial decisions will impact local services and infrastructure. The board's commitment to revisiting staffing needs mid-year also underscores a proactive approach to addressing community safety and service demands.