Key Takeaways:
- Real Estate Tax Rate: Staying at 17.74 cents per $100 of assessed value
- Budget Total: $158.1 million, covering General Fund, Capital Projects, and Utilities
- Capital Investments: $308.57 million over six years, with 79 projects planned
Leesburg, VA — Leesburg Town Manager Kaj Dentler presented the proposed Fiscal Year 2026 budget and Six-Year Capital Improvements Program (CIP) to the Town Council on February 10. The proposed $158.1 million budget aims to maintain current service levels while addressing new priorities in public safety, infrastructure, and cybersecurity.
No Change to Real Estate Tax Rate—But Assessments Are Up
The proposed budget keeps the real estate tax rate at 17.74 cents per $100 of assessed value. However, due to an average 6.7% increase in residential property assessments, many homeowners could still see higher tax bills. The “equalized rate” (which would offset the assessment increase) is calculated at 16.62 cents. If the Town Council adopts this lower rate, the General Fund would need to be cut by about $1.5 million.
Where’s the Money Going?
The $88 million General Fund focuses on key enhancements:
- Cybersecurity: A new Cybersecurity Officer to protect town data, including sensitive systems like the 911 center and water treatment facilities.
- Public Safety: Two new Police Lieutenants and an IT Manager for the police department to support growing tech demands.
- Infrastructure:
- A Senior Engineer for development plan reviews
- A Transportation Engineer to support public works projects
- Preliminary studies for traffic safety improvements on Plaza Street, Edwards Ferry Road, and Dry Mill Road
- Personal Property Tax Relief: A program in the works, pending state approval
Big Plans for Capital Improvements
The proposed Six-Year CIP totals $308.57 million and covers 79 projects, including 12 new ones. Major highlights:
- Street Paving Boost: Increased funding, plus a new position for a Pavement and Bridges Manager
- Infrastructure Upgrades: A mix of transportation, public facility, and utility improvements
Utilities: Rate Increases Continue
The $39.7 million Utilities Fund includes $8.1 million for capital projects. Residents will see a 4.1% increase in their average utility bills, part of a five-year rate plan approved in 2024. The budget also adds a Utility System Technician to support ongoing operations.
What’s Next?
The Town Council will hold multiple work sessions and public hearings for residents to weigh in on the proposed budget, tax rates, and CIP. The full budget review and adoption timeline will be finalized in an upcoming meeting.
To view the full budget and the Town Manager’s presentation, visit www.leesburgva.gov/budget.
