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Residents voice skepticism over marina restaurant funding and criticize local business tax rates
Summary
During communications from citizens, residents urged caution about using tax dollars to build a marina restaurant pavilion and criticized the city—s BPOL business tax, saying it discourages business; speakers asked the council for alternatives like food trucks and to review utility rate and wastewater concerns.
Three residents used the communications-from-citizens period to raise concerns about a proposed marina restaurant pavilion, the city—s professional-services (BPOL) tax, and water/wastewater rate proposals.
Laura Greenwood (Ward 6) said she polled neighbors about the proposed Marina Restaurant Pavilion and reported most opposed a taxpayer-funded restaurant at the marina, preferring smaller amenities for boaters and food trucks during boating season. "I don't want my tax money going to that," Greenwood said, and she reported that respondents cited river conditions and industrial smells as deterrents to sit-down dining.
Kevin Randese criticized the city—s BPOL tax and said local businesses face a competitive disadvantage. He asserted the city's BPOL rate is roughly 290% higher than neighboring Chesterfield County and explained how professional-service taxes apply; he told council the rate drives businesses away. "We have a BPOL tax rate right now that is 290% higher..." he said, and he urged the council to revise business tax policy.
Anthony (Tony) Zevgolas, a longtime local resident and former wastewater-commission participant, voiced concern about a reported 40% sewer-rate proposal and sought a meeting with staff and city attorneys to discuss wastewater finances and historical context; he asked the council to allow him time to present detailed background to staff.
Council members encouraged meeting with staff to follow up on the wastewater concerns and acknowledged the public feedback on taxation and waterfront development.
