Board to advertise two-cent tax-rate increase for April 6 public hearing

The Shenandoah County Board of Supervisors agreed by consensus on March 17 to advertise a two-cent tax-rate increase for a public hearing set for April 6, 2026. The decision came amid discussions of school budget reductions, capital project timing and staffing requests that the board said require more room in the county's borrowing and budget plans.

Board members debated how much margin to advertise for the public and staff. Vice Chairman Dennis Morris and Chairman Taylor argued for a two-cent advertisement to provide flexibility as the county works through carryforward funds and potential borrowing for major school and county projects. Supervisor Dotson said he was not willing to go over a one-cent increase. The minutes record that "The consensus was to advertise a two cent tax rate for the public hearing April 6, 2026." The board did not record a formal roll-call vote on the advertisement; the decision was noted in the work-session record as a consensus direction to staff.

The board asked staff to present final figures ahead of the public hearing so residents can see how different tax-rate outcomes would affect the budget. Director of Finance Amy Dill reviewed tax-rate scenarios and how various choices would reduce or increase the need for supplemental appropriations. The April 6 public hearing will be the next formal opportunity for public comment and any final vote on the tax rate.