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Shenandoah County holds public hearing on proposed 6% meals tax for unincorporated areas
Summary
The Shenandoah County Board of Supervisors heard a mix of support and opposition at a public hearing on a proposed 6% food-and-beverage tax for unincorporated areas, intended to fund public-safety capital; supporters cited equipment needs and estimated about $600,000 annual revenue, while wineries and tourism businesses warned of harm to visitation and small-business burdens.
The Shenandoah County Board of Supervisors held a public hearing on a proposed ordinance to levy a 6% food-and-beverage tax in the county's unincorporated areas, with revenues designated for public-safety capital and an effective date proposed of Feb. 1, 2026. The county presenter said the measure would apply to prepared food and beverages sold for consumption and would not fund operating costs such as salaries.
Why it matters: County officials said the levy would diversify a revenue stream that currently relies heavily on real and personal property taxes. Proponents said visitor spending would help shoulder the cost of expensive equipment such as ambulances and fire apparatus. Opponents, including winemakers and resort…
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