L
YNCHBURG, Va. - A public hearing on a proposed real estate tax rate for the Hill City was abruptly adjourned after just moments, leaving citizens who had gathered to speak their minds feeling frustrated and unheard. Councilman Chris Faraldi made the motion to end the meeting, citing that the outcome of the discussion was already predetermined.

    Dozens in attendance were eager to voice their opinions on the proposed tax rate of $1.025 per $100 of assessed value and the elimination of the car tax. However, council members Jacqueline Timmer, Martin Misjuns, and Vice Mayor Curt Diemer instead held an unofficial impromptu meeting, allowing citizens to express their concerns.

    The decision to adjourn the hearing was met with criticism from those in attendance, who felt that their rights as citizens had been violated. Councilman Faraldi defended his decision, stating that it resulted in what many of the opposing voices wanted - the elimination of the car tax being taken off the table.

    As a result, the mayor is now considering a new real estate tax rate of 86 cents per $100 dollars, which would be above equalization but below the current rate. The city council will review this proposal at their meeting on Tuesday night and must approve a budget by July 1, as required by Virginia law.