Central Nova News

On May 1, the Alexandria City Council approved a Fiscal Year 2025 General Fund Operating Budget totaling $926.4 million. This budget marks a 4.8% increase from the previous fiscal year and reflects the city's priorities in education, city services, public safety, mental health services, and affordable housing.

The new budget includes a 2.5 cent rise in the real estate tax rate to meet growing service demands across Alexandria, including those of the public school system. Consequently, homeowners will see an increase in their annual property taxes.

To further its affordable housing initiatives, the city has allocated an additional $3 million for projects within this sector that had not previously received funding. The budget also provides a $14.3 million increase for Alexandria City Public Schools (ACPS), aimed at enhancing teacher compensation to improve recruitment and retention.

Mayor Justin Wilson emphasized community involvement in shaping the budget: “As Council balances a budget with scarce resources and practically unlimited demands, resident input is essential,” he said. He described the process as comprehensive and aligned with community values.

City Manager James Parajon expressed satisfaction with how decisions were made: “I am proud of the thoughtful approach to decision-making in this budget and how our city organization continues to find innovative solutions to meet the needs of the community.”

The FY2025 budget also earmarks significant funds for capital investments over ten years under Alexandria’s Capital Improvement Program (CIP). These investments include stormwater management infrastructure and educational facilities upgrades, such as those planned for George Mason and Cora Kelly elementary schools.

The newly adopted budget will take effect on July 1, 2024.

Further details on Alexandria's budgeting process can be found at alexandriava.gov/Budget. Translation services are available by contacting LanguageAccess@alexandriava.gov or calling 703-746-3960.