Council outlines reassessment appeals as residents voice frustration with higher assessments

Mayor Becky Nave and council members addressed a wave of concern over recent property reassessments, explaining how residents can challenge new values and when appeals are due.

Nave said Virginia law requires reassessments every four years and that the latest values are effective Jan. 1, 2025. She told residents that they may appeal by submitting the form that accompanied their reassessment notice by Dec. 23, 2024 at 5:00 p.m., via mail, email, or in person at the Commissioner of Revenue’s office; she also said the Commissioner’s office maintains a book of reassessment values for public viewing.

Councilmember Anthony Farnum noted the current tax rate is $1.17 per $100 of assessed value and said the council will review the rate during the preliminary budget season to consider offsets for any increases. Vice Mayor Jake Holmes encouraged residents to use the appeals process.

City Manager Randall Eads provided legal context, saying assessments must reflect fair market value — the price a willing buyer would pay a willing seller — and noted Virginia Supreme Court precedent that supports that standard. Eads disclosed he personally owns multiple parcels in the city and that his assessments doubled; he said he did not appeal because the new values aligned with recent sales in the area.

During the public comment period resident Joey Musser said he was frustrated by a significant increase in his assessment, and Karen Mieres questioned how fair market value is determined. Councilmembers advised residents to consult the Commissioner of Revenue’s office and use the formal appeal form and deadline.

Next steps: the council will review the tax rate during preliminary budget discussions and staff said the Commissioner’s office can provide additional data to residents who request it.