Residents urge Lynchburg City Council to reconsider proposed property tax increase

The Lynchburg City Council held a Budget Public Hearing on April 22, 2025, where residents voiced their concerns regarding proposed tax increases and the impact on the community. The meeting featured a series of public comments that highlighted the diverse perspectives of citizens regarding the city’s financial management and priorities.

The session began with a resident expressing frustration over a significant increase in property assessments, which rose by 50% instead of the anticipated 30%. This individual emphasized the burden of higher taxes on homeowners and questioned the council's commitment to all citizens, particularly those who rely on city services but do not own property. The speaker urged the council to consider the needs of the 50.9% of residents who do not own homes, suggesting that tax cuts primarily benefit wealthier homeowners.

Following this, Hope McCrory from "We the People" criticized the city’s bureaucratic processes, calling for greater transparency and accessibility of information from elected officials. She argued that all citizens, regardless of their housing status, should be considered in budget decisions, highlighting the need for a focus on basic services such as housing and utilities.

Peter Sefarati, a resident of Ward 1, commended the council for maintaining the current tax rate but cautioned against future increases that could burden taxpayers already facing inflation. He urged the council to prioritize essential services and avoid funding non-essential projects that could lead to higher taxes in the future.

Carl Hutcherson, representing Ward 2, echoed concerns about the tax rate, advocating for stability to ensure the city remains competitive. He noted that many residents would be willing to pay slightly more to support city growth, but emphasized the importance of responsible fiscal management.

Charles Gammon, also a local homeowner, argued against the notion that higher taxes lead to prosperity, citing historical evidence to support his claim. He urged the council to reject any proposals for tax increases, emphasizing the need for budgetary restraint.

Several residents, including Greg Berry and Steven Jordan, expressed their opposition to higher taxes, citing personal financial constraints and the rising cost of living. They called on the council to consider the financial realities faced by many families in Lynchburg.

Jan Willinger highlighted the disparity between homeowners and renters, questioning the council's focus on tax cuts for property owners while neglecting the needs of renters who are also struggling with rising costs. She urged the council to develop proposals that support all citizens, not just those who own homes.

Lisa Liston, a retired resident, shared her concerns about the sustainability of tax increases on fixed incomes, suggesting that new developments should be taxed differently to protect long-term residents.

The meeting concluded with a call for the council to carefully consider the implications of their budget decisions on all residents, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach that addresses the needs of both homeowners and renters. The discussions underscored the community's desire for transparency, fiscal responsibility, and equitable treatment in the city’s financial planning.