The Albemarle County Board of Supervisors adopted a $644 million FY26 budget on May 7. The budget is balanced with a 4-cent increase to the real property tax rate, and a restoration of the pre-pandemic personal property tax rate.
New rates go into effect on July 1, for an overall real property tax rate of $0.894 and a personal property tax rate of $4.28 per $100 of assessed value.
Highlights from the adopted budget include investments in public safety, education, affordable housing, and climate action.
A further breakdown of the 4-cent rate increase to the real property tax rate provided by Albemarle County outlines specific funding allocations. Approximately $9.9 million, or 3.2 cents per $100, will support the continued staffing of 57 FEMA Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response grant firefighter positions, six new police officers, and a 3 percent salary increase. Additional education priorities and affordable housing efforts will each receive roughly $1.2 million, or 0.4 cents per $100, from the tax hike.
“This budget reflects our continued commitment to long-term community well-being, with focused investments in core services, public safety, and capital needs,” said Jim Andrews, Board of Supervisors chair. “I appreciate the collaboration of my fellow board members, the dedication of staff, and the thoughtful input from community members. This was not a process we took lightly, and I’m grateful to everyone who engaged to help shape a budget that addresses our most urgent and strategic needs.”
The draft FY26 budget was first presented to the Albemarle County Board of Supervisors in February. Supplied photo.
