Jerry Petrini, a fourth-generation Virginian and owner of Champion Auto, told the Virginia City Council on Tuesday that property taxes have risen so steeply he and his family are considering leaving the city.

“Last year my parents’ county taxes were $2,966 while mine were $6,714,” Petrini said during the public forum, and he urged elected officials to consider the effect of proposed increases on long‑time residents and small businesses. Petrini said he understands some city services are unique to residents but called the overall tax burden “too high.”

Mayor Cuffee acknowledged the council hears such concerns and explained the timing and mechanics of the levy process. He said preliminary levies are often set conservatively high and that staff has worked to lower the general‑fund levy, currently targeting roughly a 1% general‑fund levy. The mayor reminded residents the city’s final levy will be set at the council’s Dec. 9 meeting, and he encouraged the public to attend that hearing.

Councilors clarified that the city’s overall levy figure includes both the general‑fund levy and a largely fixed debt‑service levy tied to bonds and leases; Councilor Buck Schneider said the debt‑service levy is essentially fixed and noted combined levies could total about 10% when both components are added. Councilors said they are seeking ways to limit the city portion of taxes while meeting debt obligations and service needs.

Petrini’s testimony and the council’s answers underscored two near‑term steps for residents: a final levy decision on Dec. 9 and continuing council scrutiny of budget items that affect the city portion of property taxes. The mayor and other members invited taxpayers to follow the process and return for the Dec. 9 hearing.