Waynesboro council introduces ordinance to consider LifeWorks tax exemption

A majority of the Waynesboro City Council on Nov. 24 opened a public hearing and moved to introduce an ordinance that would allow the LifeWorks Project to seek exemption from local real and personal property taxes for property at 505 North Winchester and related assets, including a delivery van.

City staff explained the legal basis for local exemptions under changes to the Virginia Constitution and local code and said final council consideration is scheduled for Dec. 8. No roll-call vote on introduction was recorded in the transcript; staff said the ordinance would return for final action at the next regular business meeting.

Speakers at the hearing described the nonprofit's local services and the effect the exemption would have on operations. "This exemption of real estate and personal property tax will ensure that we as an organization are able to commit more of our funds that are given through grants and donations ... to do more of the work that the community is more and more growing dependent upon," AJ Young Jr. said. Sharon Van Naim, a volunteer at the Bridal Basket food pantry, said her regular work there "warms my heart" and urged council to grant the exemption so the pantry can grow. Larry Stopper, chair of LifeWorks' board, said the group is "entirely supported through grants and donations" and that the exemption would let the organization use community funds for direct services.

The council's introduction of the ordinance sets up a public hearing and final vote at the Dec. 8 business meeting. The transcript shows the motion to introduce was moved and seconded but does not record a roll-call vote on the introduction itself.

Next steps: the council will consider the ordinance on Dec. 8, and any final action or vote will be reported at that meeting.