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Spotsylvania supervisors oppose proposed GWRC RTA, citing tax and equity concerns
Summary
After a lengthy presentation from county transportation staff, the Spotsylvania Board voted 5–1 to adopt a resolution opposing the proposed GWRC Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) and to support an opt‑out option for the county, citing concerns about proposed taxes, revenue splits, and whether regional project priorities have been defined.
The Spotsylvania County Board of Supervisors voted on June 11 to adopt a resolution opposing the proposed Rappahannock Area Transportation Authority (RTA) advanced by the George Washington Regional Commission (GWRC)/FAMPO subcommittee, and to support the county’s right to opt out of any RTA advanced at the 2025 General Assembly.
Paul Agnello, the county’s director of transportation, briefed the board on the FAMPO subcommittee’s May 31 memorandum describing an RTA model that would allow participating localities to raise revenue regionally for transportation projects. Agnello summarized the proposed revenue tools: a 1% transient occupancy tax, a recordation tax of 6¢ per $100, a half‑cent retail sales tax increase, and a $15 million state allocation; the subcommittee recommended a 70/30 split between regional and local shares.
Supervisor Hayes, who moved the resolution opposing the proposal, said the board’s concern is the prospect of four new local taxes and the impact on residents already facing inflation. “I’m still opposed to this,” Hayes said during the debate, arguing the board needs consensus on regional priorities before creating a taxing authority. Supervisor Yakubowski dissented, arguing the region lacks funding and that a regional approach could allow larger federal/state matches for major projects.
Paul Agnello estimated potential revenues under the subcommittee numbers, noting a regional target of roughly $30.2 million and an estimated Spotsylvania local component of about $4.5 million a year under the 70/30 split; he also said a 50/50 split would increase Spotsylvania’s local return and that the county might prefer that allocation.
After extended discussion weighing regional benefits, project prioritization, and tax burdens on residents, the board voted to adopt the opposing resolution with five supervisors in favor and Supervisor Yakubowski voting no. The resolution also asked the county’s legislators to preserve an opt‑out mechanism at the General Assembly.
Outcome: Motion to approve a resolution opposing the GWRC RTA and supporting Spotsylvania’s ability to opt out passed 5–1.
