Local governments across the Richmond metropolitan area are set to make several key decisions this week on issues ranging from real estate tax rates and major land purchases to new school policies and controversial development projects. Richmond City Council will hold a final vote on the property tax rate, a topic that has generated considerable debate among officials.
Residents in Henrico, Chesterfield, Hanover, and Albemarle counties will also see important votes affecting school redistricting, public safety agreements, and long-term county planning. The outcomes of these meetings will directly influence household finances, community development, and public education for thousands of residents.
Key Takeaways
- Richmond City: The City Council is scheduled for a final vote on the 2026 real estate tax rate, with a proposal to lower it to $1.16 facing off against the mayor's preference to maintain the current $1.20 rate.
- Henrico County: Supervisors will consider a controversial data center proposal on Darbytown Road, which the Planning Commission has already recommended against. A $2.15 million land purchase for parks and preservation is also on the agenda.
- Chesterfield County: The School Board will vote on a new redistricting plan for the upcoming Deep Creek Elementary School and approve its agreement for school resource officers.
- Hanover County: The School Board will decide on new high school courses and consider policy changes related to hiring and the definition of substitute teachers.
Richmond City Faces Decisive Tax Rate Vote
The most anticipated decision in the region this week will take place in Richmond City Hall, where the City Council will conclude its debate over the real estate tax rate for the upcoming year. The vote, which was deferred last month, is scheduled for the council's 6 p.m. meeting on Tuesday.
Two competing proposals are on the table. Eighth District Councilor Reva Trammell, with support from two colleagues, has advocated for lowering the rate from $1.20 to $1.16 per $100 of assessed value. This move would provide some relief to homeowners who have seen property assessments rise.
However, Mayor Danny Avula and Council President Cynthia Newbille of the 7th District support keeping the rate at its current level of $1.20. They argue that maintaining the rate is necessary to fund essential city services and programs.
What the Tax Rate Means for Homeowners
The real estate tax rate is a critical component of the city's budget, funding everything from schools and public safety to road maintenance. For a home assessed at $300,000, the difference between the two proposed rates is $120 per year in property taxes. Proponents of the lower rate emphasize affordability for residents, while supporters of the current rate focus on maintaining service levels.
Affordable Housing and City Finances
Earlier on Tuesday, at 4 p.m., the City Council will hear an annual report from Caprichia Spellman, director of the Office of Community Wealth Building, alongside Mayor Avula.
On Wednesday, the city's Finance and Economic Development Standing Committee will discuss a significant proposal to bolster affordable housing initiatives. The committee will consider transferring $2 million from the delinquent tax sales special fund into the Affordable Housing Trust Fund. According to city documents, this move aims to leverage funds from the sale of tax-delinquent properties to create more housing options for low-income residents.
The committee will also receive updates from Finance Director Letitia Shelton on the city's delinquent tax collection efforts, its tax relief program for qualifying residents, and overall risk management strategies. Any votes by the committee serve as recommendations to the full City Council, which holds final approval authority.
Henrico County Considers Data Center and Land Preservation
The Henrico County Board of Supervisors has a full agenda for its Tuesday meetings, with major decisions on land use and public resources. A key point of contention is a request for a provisional use permit to construct data centers on the north line of Darbytown Road.
This proposal has faced opposition, and the county's Planning Commission has already issued a recommendation against its approval. The Board of Supervisors will have the final say during its 6 p.m. session.
Data Center Development in Virginia
Virginia, particularly Northern Virginia, is the largest data center market in the world. While these facilities contribute significantly to the local tax base, they often raise community concerns about noise, energy consumption, and environmental impact, leading to thorough reviews by local governments.
In a separate matter, the board is expected to approve the purchase of 28 acres of land for $2.15 million. The property is located at 5301 Francistown Road, near Echo Lake Elementary School. The county's plan is to preserve a portion of the land while developing other parts for public use, such as parks and trails for walking and biking.
"The acquisition of this land aligns with our goals to expand green spaces and recreational opportunities for Henrico residents," a county planning document stated.
Regional Cooperation and Development Issues
The Henrico board will also vote on an agreement to supply neighboring Cumberland County with up to 7 million gallons of water per day, a move that highlights growing regional cooperation on infrastructure.
During an earlier special meeting at 3:45 p.m., supervisors will receive updates on the local impact of any federal government shutdown and the status of the St. Luke’s Apartments. The county previously accused the apartment owners of breaching a contract that was established after multiple building code violations were issued.
School Boards in Chesterfield and Hanover to Vote on Key Policies
Education is a central theme in Chesterfield and Hanover counties this week, with school boards in both localities set to make important decisions on Tuesday evening.
Chesterfield Addresses Redistricting and Safety
The Chesterfield County School Board is slated to vote on one of two proposed redistricting options for the new Deep Creek Elementary School. The school, located in the western part of the county, requires new attendance boundaries to be established ahead of its opening. Board members will also consider approving the school district's annual agreement with the Chesterfield County Police Department for the placement of school resource officers (SROs) in schools.
Hanover Focuses on Curriculum and Staffing
In Hanover County, the School Board will vote on adding three new courses to the high school curriculum for the 2026–2027 school year:
- Automotive Entrepreneurship
- Data Science
- Environmental Science
The board will also consider a significant policy change that would allow the hiring of individuals convicted of certain crimes, provided they have met specific post-conviction requirements. Another proposed change would redefine the term for a substitute teacher, extending the maximum duration they can fill a vacancy from 90 teaching days to 180 teaching days. This adjustment addresses ongoing challenges in teacher staffing.
Albemarle County to Adopt Comprehensive Plan
The Albemarle County Board of Supervisors will hold a meeting on Wednesday where they are expected to formally adopt the county's new comprehensive plan. This long-range planning document will guide development, land use, and infrastructure decisions in the county for years to come.
Supervisors will also be presented with the latest local economic outlook report, providing crucial data on the county's financial health and future prospects. Meanwhile, the Hanover County Planning Commission will meet Thursday to review a zoning change request for a seven-lot residential development at the intersection of Old Estates Way and Walnut Grove Road.
