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Washington County raises lodging tax to 7% and adopts FY 2024‑25 operating budget
Summary
The Board approved a transient occupancy tax increase from 5% to 7% and adopted the FY 2024‑25 county operating budget, including appropriations and reallocations; all motions passed by unanimous roll/voice votes.
The Washington County Board of Supervisors on June 11 voted to increase the transient occupancy (lodging) tax from 5% to 7% and then adopted the county’s operating budget for fiscal year 2024‑25.
County Attorney Brandon Snodgrass explained the ordinance would raise the lodging tax to 7% and include reporting changes so accommodations taking under $600 in a calendar month report annually rather than monthly. "7% was fairly consistent number across the Commonwealth," he said, recommending adoption.
Fred Parker, the county treasurer, spoke in favor and offered revenue context: "Every penny we can keep off real estate saves the taxpayers in this county money," he said and estimated that the change could yield additional revenue (various figures were offered during discussion).
After adopting the lodging ordinance, the board received budget adjustment recommendations from Finance Director Ms. Sturgill. Adjustments included reallocating funds for a 3% cost‑of‑living increase (COLA), two new sheriff’s office positions (a dispatcher and animal shelter employee), and increased funding for county fire services. Sturgill reported the draft budget exceeds $200 million and includes Virginia Resources Authority borrowing for three major projects.
The board approved three lump-sum budget adjustments, adopted the county operating budget and approved the appropriation resolution by unanimous votes.
The motions and appropriations complete the county’s formal budget process for FY 2024‑25; staff will implement the budget and track revenues and adjustments throughout the fiscal year.
