Goochland supervisors open public hearings on FY26 budget and keep advertised real-estate rate at 53¢

Goochland County Board of Supervisors on April 1 opened public hearings on the county's proposed fiscal year 2026 budget, reviewed staff-proposed amendments and held citizen comment on tax relief and reserve balances. The board did not change the advertised real-estate tax rate, which remains at 53 cents per $100 of assessed value; the board set a final vote on the budget and tax rates for April 15.

The proposed FY26 general fund totals $148,597,906, according to Finance Director Carla Cave. Staff described major increases in general government spending (largely new software and a third county attorney), public safety (additional positions and mandated pay adjustments) and utilities. County staff reported that without adding new-construction revenue, assessed values rose 8.6% year over year; an “effective” rate that would produce the same revenue as last year would be approximately 49 cents, staff said, meaning the advertised rate represents an effective increase in revenue collection.

Why it matters: the budget sets property-tax obligations for homeowners and funds prioritized services including schools, sheriff’s office and fire rescue. Board members said the FY26 packet reflects both locally driven needs and state mandates that affect payroll costs and emergency services.

The draft budget and amendments presented April 1 included: - Total proposed general-fund budget: $148,597,906. - New or…