Arlington's Budget Still Means 'Outrageous' Increase in Taxes
When The Washington Post asked ACTA's president last month for his reaction to the Arlington County Manager's proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2006, he remarked, "It's outrageous," and then added that even after the Manager's proposed 5 cent cut in the real estate tax rate, "That still leaves a 17 percent increase for every hardworking homeowner in Arlington." As the Post's reporter noted a rate reduced by the 5 cents will put the average annual tax bill at $4,160, an increase of $619. On top of that, the Manager also proposes increases in a number of fee increases that will directly affect homeowners. You can see the list on page 3, section B, of the budget, but they include increases in the water/sewer rate and the garbage (make that the solid waste) rate.
If you agree with ACTA's president, you need to contact the Arlington County Board, and tell them how deeply they need to cut the real estate tax rate! And, be sure to tell them how their increased taxation will affect you. Tell them ACTA sent you!