The cost of Stafford County’s long-planned courthouse replacement project has increased significantly, with county officials acknowledging major changes in scope. During the March 11, 2025, Board of Supervisors meeting, staff presented the latest budget updates, revealing the financial impact of the courthouse expansion.
“There definitely is a project cost increase with this courthouse,” said County Administrator Bill Ashton. “This is a new full court that will be across the street. So there is a cost increase on this, but the timing looks like it should be relatively the same.”
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Concerns Over Health and Safety
Woof Houze, located at 501 Musselman Road, has been a key facility for dog training and behavioral rehabilitation. Owner Adia Washington and several supporters spoke at a Stafford County Board of Supervisors meeting on March 4, 2025, detailing health concerns among staff, customers, and animals due to prolonged exposure to airborne silica dust.
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As Stafford County prepares its budget for the upcoming fiscal year, officials and citizens alike are raising concerns over the mounting financial burden of a state-mandated tax exemption for disabled veterans. The issue, discussed at the March 4, 2025, Stafford County Board of Supervisors meeting, has sparked debate over the program's sustainability and impact on county taxpayers.
Mayausky: "A Worthy Program, But an Unfunded Mandate"
Stafford County Commissioner of Revenue Scott Mayausky detailed the rapid growth of the veteran tax relief program, which has significantly expanded since its inception in 2011.
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Stafford County Administrator Bill Ashton presented the proposed Fiscal Year 2026 (FY2026) budget to the Board of Supervisors on March 4, 2025.
The budget, which takes effect on July 1, 2025, prioritizes school funding, public safety, and community services while addressing challenges such as population growth and state-mandated tax relief programs. The All-Funds Budget totals $1,015,097,345.
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The Stafford County Board of Supervisors will address two key issues at its upcoming meeting on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, at 5 p.m.: unveiling the County Administrator’s proposed FY2026 budget and the first official step toward the development of Musselman Park.
First Look at the County Administrator’s Proposed FY2026 Budget
One key item on the agenda is the presentation of the County Administrator’s proposed FY2026 operating budget. This proposal will outline funding priorities for county services, infrastructure, public safety, and education.
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Budget Breakdown & Funding Challenges
The $503.1 million budget represents an increase of $8.3 million in state revenue based on the General Assembly’s budget, bringing the division’s total anticipated increase in state funding to $18.9 million. However, despite the added funds, the projected funding shortfall now stands at $18.3 million.
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At the February 18, 2025, Board of Supervisors meeting, the members discussed Resolution R25-43, which proposes amending Stafford County Code Section 28-35 and modifying the Table of Uses and Standards to introduce additional oversight for data center developments. To gather public feedback, a joint public hearing with the Planning Commission is scheduled for March 18, 2025.
Reasons for the Change
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Stafford County's Board of Supervisors and School Board will hold their respective meetings on Tuesday, February 25. Both meetings will be streamed live, with agendas available online.
Board of Supervisors Meeting – 5 p.m.
The Board of Supervisors will review the transportation biannual update, focusing on the Transportation Master Plan and various state and federal grant programs.
Transportation Master Plan Overview
- Phase 1 ($225 million):
- Four projects under construction: Berea Church Road, Route 1 at Telegraph/Woodstock, Staffordboro Boulevard sidewalk, and Route 1 at Courthouse Road ($57 million total).
- The Courthouse Road project has a $3.2 million shortfall. However, Berea Church Road and Telegraph Road projects are under budget, with surplus funds moving into contingency.
- Eight projects in the engineering phase totaling $168 million.
- Phase 2 ($600 million+):
- Includes four projects in engineering and 12 roadway and 33 bike/pedestrian projects in planning.
- Major areas of focus include Kings Highway, Chatham Heights, Mine Road, and Greenspring Drive.
- Phase 3 ($1 billion+):
- Proposed projects include a new north-south corridor west of I-95, running parallel to Route 1, and widening Courthouse, Mountain View, and Shelton Shop roads.
State Funding: almost $292 million, an increase of $10.5 million from last year
Departmental Savings: $890,000 in savings from departmental budgets
New School Staffing: $914,000 to staff new schools being built in the county
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Prince William County residents are invited to participate in a virtual community meeting on Saturday, February 22, 2025, from 9 a.m. to noon to discuss the Proposed Fiscal Year 2026 Budget. Hosted by the Office of Management & Budget, the event allows the public to learn about the budget details and ask questions directly to county officials.
Residents must register in advance to attend. Upon approval, registrants will receive an invitation to the webinar.
The virtual presentation follows County Executive Christopher Shorter’s recent unveiling of a $2 billion budget proposal, which maintains the real estate tax rate at 92 cents per $100 of assessed value. However, due to rising property assessments, the average residential tax bill is expected to increase by $276, bringing the total to $5,165. Approximately 57% of this bill—around $2,956—will be allocated to Prince William County Schools under the county’s revenue-sharing agreement.
Supervisor Yesli Vega voiced strong concerns about the proposed budget, arguing that it would impose an undue financial burden on residents.
“Unfortunately, even without a rate hike, the average taxpayer will still see an increase of $276. This amount fails to account for additional taxes, including the fire levy tax, which will drive costs even higher,” Vega stated.
She emphasized the need for a thorough budget review to ensure it serves all county residents reasonably.
“That’s why we need to take a hard look at this budget and make sure it works for everyone. Last year, this Board proved that by working together, we can achieve real results—balancing the needs of our community while protecting taxpayers. My goal is to build on that success, refine this budget, and find ways to deliver much-needed relief.”
Vega encouraged residents to attend the upcoming community meeting, voice their concerns, and contribute to shaping a budget that reflects local priorities.
“It’s crucial that we hear from you to ensure this budget reflects the priorities of our community. We must continue investing in education, public safety, sustainable housing, and infrastructure while also being mindful of the financial burden on taxpayers. With your input, we can shape a budget that supports growth and stability without putting extra strain on hardworking families.”
Residents are encouraged to attend the virtual community meeting to comprehensively understand the proposed budget and its potential impact.
For more information and to register for the event, visit Prince William County’s official website.
Updated 11 a.m. – Less than two months after announcing she would not seek another term, Stafford County Supervisor Monica Gary has reversed her decision. She will run for re-election as an independent candidate.
Gary, who represents the Aquia District on the Board of Supervisors, posted on Facebook on February 20, 2025, citing encouragement from her community and family as the driving force behind her change of heart.
