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rlington County Board members have shifted gears, opting to maintain the current real estate tax rate of $1.033 per $100 assessed valuation for this fiscal year. This decision comes after a budget wrap-up session where concerns about economic uncertainty and unprecedented times took center stage.

    "We're navigating uncharted waters," said Board member Susan Cunningham. "Being cautious makes sense, especially now." The unchanged tax rate will keep the average homeowner's real estate taxes at approximately $8,831 – a 3.66% increase due to rising property assessments.

    The county budget remains steady at around $1.69 billion for the upcoming fiscal year starting July 1. County Manager Mark Schwartz acknowledged the economic uncertainty affecting the region and nation, saying, "We're all trying to balance what we don't know is going to happen."

    Despite concerns from the hospitality and business communities, Board members remain committed to increasing the county's meals tax from 4% to 5%, effective July 1. Other proposed budget amendments include:

    * $1 million for additional funding of homeless-services contractors

    * $300,000 to provide subsidies for families on a waiting list for state child-care support

    * Restoring two positions slated for elimination: a construction-plan-review position and a code enforcement position

    Board members also agreed to reduce County Manager Schwartz's proposed contingency funding from $11.5 million to $11 million, with the possibility of returning the extra half-million if Arlington receives a $1 million payment from WMATA.

    The meeting highlighted concerns about economic headwinds affecting local development. Commercial projects have slowed since the pandemic, and financing challenges may imperil large-scale residential complexes. "We could see fewer projects," Schwartz warned. Cunningham predicted that the county will face "hard times" for at least two years.