Veteran Tax Relief Sparks Heated Debate
During the March 17 meeting, comments from Commissioner of the Revenue Tim Demeria ignited strong reactions from residents and veterans. Demeria raised concerns about the increasing cost of tax exemptions for 100% disabled veterans, pointing out that some beneficiaries own high-value homes and luxury vehicles. His remarks led to backlash from veterans, including Zach Murphy, who viewed them as dismissive of their service and sacrifices.
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Parents, mark your calendars: Stafford’s Duff McDuff Green Park's new playground will open with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on April 26, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. The event is open to the public.
The existing playground was wholly removed, having reached the end of its lifespan after being installed in August 2001. Shannon Eubanks, Stafford’s Community Engagement Program Manager, said the new playground was designed with inclusivity and accessibility in mind, incorporating features that cater to children of all abilities.Â
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Dumfries Town Manager Tangela Innis has presented the proposed Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) budget for the town. The budget outlines strategic investments in infrastructure, public safety, and community programs while maintaining the town’s real estate tax rate.
The first reading of the budget is scheduled for March 18, with a public hearing on April 1. If approved, the Town Council may adopt the budget the same evening.
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The MCPS Board held a budget public hearing during its March 11 meeting, which was largely attended by teachers and employees of the district. The $151 million proposed budget was presented on Feb. 25 with a 5.5% salary increase and a $1 million cut to intervention services for at-risk students.
Kristen Whatley, a speech-language pathologist (SLP) in the district, said MCPS needed to increase its minimum salary to stay competitive with neighboring jurisdictions.
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The Board of County Supervisors has directed staff to review agreements between the Prince William County Police Department and incorporated towns regarding using the Mike Pennington Scenario-Based Training Center. The move comes after Gainesville District Supervisor Bob Weir requested a formal review of the Memorandums of Agreement (MOAs) governing town law enforcement agencies' access to the facility.
At a March 4, 2025 board meeting, Supervisor Weir, a former Haymarket Town Council member, emphasized that town residents are also county residents and contribute to county taxes. He proposed an amendment to the existing MOAs allowing town police departments to use the facility at no cost, shifting the financial burden to the county’s police department budget.
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The Stafford County School Board is moving forward with plans to redesign and rebuild Drew Middle School, with an anticipated opening in August 2028. The proposed facility, located at Oak Knoll Farm off Farm Road, aims to modernize the school's infrastructure while accommodating growing student enrollment.
During a recent school board meeting, officials and architects presented multiple design concepts, emphasizing the need for an efficient, functional, and community-oriented space. One of the primary considerations in the redesign process is the inclusion of a performance space—a feature strongly supported by community feedback.
History and Justification for Replacement
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Summer fun at Signal Bay Waterpark will start a little later than expected this year. The city of Manassas Park has announced a delayed opening due to ongoing renovations. According to a statement from city officials, the park will now welcome visitors on Monday, June 23, about a month later than initially planned.
The city assured patrons that the delay is due to necessary improvements to enhance the park experience. "We appreciate your patience as we put the finishing touches on these exciting improvements," the statement read. "If any unforeseen construction setbacks affect the opening date, we’ll let you know right away!"
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Fredericksburg City Manager Tim Baroody presented the Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) budget proposal to the City Council on March 11. The proposal outline a $136.75 million spending plan to strengthen public schools, upgrade infrastructure, and ensure long-term financial stability.
The proposal includes a three-cent real estate tax increase to fund these initiatives, bringing the rate from $0.77 to $0.80 per $100 of assessed value. This tax hike is expected to generate additional revenue while helping to fund essential services such as a new middle school, a fire station, and water system upgrades.
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The Stafford County Board of Supervisors and the Stafford County School Board met in a joint session Wednesday evening to address critical budget concerns, including school funding challenges, rising property taxes, and long-term infrastructure needs. The meeting, which focused on the Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) budget, took place as county leaders continue to deliberate over a proposed $1 billion budget for Fiscal Year 2025 (FY26) that could result in higher property tax bills for homeowners.
A Budget for Growth: Addressing Stafford’s Expanding Student Population
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Prince William County officials are raising concerns about a high-voltage transmission line project proposed by Dominion Energy. The project could affect public parks, a public safety training center, and other county-owned properties.
According to Dominion's preliminary plans, the Wishing Star to Morrisville transmission line would run from Loudoun County into Fauquier County, requiring new right-of-way acquisitions and easements.
