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Supervisors vote to cut county meals tax to 3% from 4%
Summary
After debate about the tax’s regressive effects on restaurants and residents, the board voted 5‑2 to lower the county meals tax from 4 percent to 3 percent, moving forward a change that was already reflected in the adopted budget.
The Prince William County Board of County Supervisors voted 5‑2 to reduce the county meals tax from 4 percent to 3 percent.
Why it mattered: Supervisors who supported the reduction said the tax is regressive and has burdened small, family‑owned restaurants during high inflation and staffing challenges. Opponents warned the tax had been adopted to broaden the county’s non‑property tax revenue base and expressed concern that reducing or eliminating such taxes increases pressure on property taxpayers.
Discussion highlights: Supervisor Boddy said the meals tax was created to diversify the county’s revenue sources and help fund county services and schools without further increasing property taxes, but that she would support the reduction because it had already been included in the county’s adopted budget. Supervisor Vega and Supervisor Gordy argued the tax’s effect on thin‑margin restaurants and tipped workers justified a reduction and ultimately urged the board to consider full repeal in future budget discussions.
Outcome: Motion to lower the meals tax carried 5‑2. Supervisors Angry and Franklin voted nay.
Ending: The change will be implemented per the county’s budget schedule; supervisors who oppose the tax said they want to pursue further reductions or repeal in upcoming budget processes.
