The Waynesboro City Council opened a public hearing Nov. 24 on a proposed ordinance to grant the LifeWorks Project a local exemption from personal and real property taxes at 505 North Winchester, the location of the Bridal Basket Food Pantry. City staff summarized the legal basis and process for a local exemption and asked council to introduce the ordinance for final consideration in December.

Mister Ham told council that, following a 2003 change to the Virginia Constitution that shifted certain exemption authority to localities, council must consider LifeWorks’ application under local code. He said designation as a 501(c)(3) does not automatically entitle an organization to a local exemption and that this hearing was part of the required process.

Applicants and volunteers spoke in support. AJ Young Jr. described the organization’s impact on the community and urged approval so LifeWorks can commit more grant and donated funds to services rather than tax obligations. Sharon Van Naim, a volunteer at the Bridal Basket, recounted the value of the pantry work and asked council to grant the exemption. Larry Stoppard, chair of the LifeWorks Project board, said the organization operates entirely on grants and donations and that a local exemption would help sustain operations.

After public comment, council closed the hearing and a councilor moved to introduce the ordinance; a second was made. Staff said final consideration and a public hearing would occur at a subsequent December meeting.

No final vote to grant the exemption was taken Nov. 24; the council only voted to introduce the ordinance and schedule final consideration.