A larger than usual crowd turned out for Covington’s City Council meeting, Tuesday evening, where a Public Hearing was held regarding a proposed real property tax increase of 85 cents per 100, after a recent assessment.
Rod Bennett thanked Council for the opportunity to serve the city one last time. “It was a pleasure serving on the Board of Equalization after serving on council for eight years, said Bennett.” He then asked Council to consider keeping the tax rate in the 70s. He believes they would still be able to take in some revenue but not affect taxpayers as much. He explained that four years ago, he paid $1,500 per year to live where he lives but based on the current assessment, it would cost him $2,000. He believes the aging population in Covington could use the $500 toward co-pays, gas, food, etc.
Eunice Clark, former city official, also asked Council to reconsider the proposed tax rate increase, citing the aging population. “The children finish college, and they don’t come home,” said Clark. “I know you can’t go down to 72 cents, but I think in the middle of the road would be reasonable.” She was under the impression that with the consolidated schools a lot of expenses would go down and doesn’t understand why taxes are going up? She closed her comments by urging Council to “say a prayer and remember your citizens.”
Eric Tyree, said as an investor and property and business owner in the city, he understood the city needs improvements and how those revenues are generated. He would like to see those things continue and supports a tax increase.
“I think there is a whole lot of information that we need to look at besides the real estate side of it,” said Tom Sibold, mayor. “In my heart, we need to take it down but on my brain side, what do we cut,” opined David Crosier, vice mayor.
Cathy Kimberlin, Commissioner of Revenue, took to the podium to explain some of the math that went into the decision to increase the tax rates. However, she could only estimate the losses at this time. She also gave an overview on a tax relief program for the elderly. After much discussion, Sibold concluded that if the rates are reduced to 72 cents per 100, it would put the city $300,000 in the hole.
Though no action was taken after this rather lengthy discussion, Sibold seemed to have concluded that “there is not a number that would keep us in the black and any reduction taken in the tax rate would keep the city from being able to get services.”
In other action, council unanimously approved the corrected minutes of the Aug. 8, 2023, regular meeting after an addition to consider an appointment of Council to the Economic Development Commission was added by Crosier. Councilman Lance Carson was appointed.
Council also approved a resolution to amend appropriations for FY 23/24 and a letter of support to the Alleghany Foundation for the construction of Casey Field/Boodie Albert Stadium.
Council heard and approved the Alleghany Highlands Public Schools’ capital improvement projects: to include roof replacements at the Jackson River Technical Center and Alleghany High School, gym renovations for AHS, painting at the Covington Middle School and AHS, security cameras equivalent across all buildings.
Council also heard and approved the Alleghany Highlands Community Services Board’s Performance Contract. Ingrid Barber, Executive Director, gave an update on some of the future projects to include: a local mobile crisis team, expanding permanent supportive housing, crisis receiving centers and crisis stabilization units, “making sure our area is not left behind.” “The CSB is currently serving 1,400 consumers and that number continues to grow. We are in the schools, jails, and even some outreach to churches,” added Barber. She left Council with an updated brochure and shared that the CSB will be celebrating its 40th anniversary with a gala in October. Sibold thanked her for all the CSB is doing. “I want to help anyway we can,” added Sibold.
Allen Dressler, city manager, explained that the city would not be managing the Rayon Bridge project. Rather, Virginia Department of Transportation would administer the management and engineering portion of the Bridge though it would belong to the city of Covington at completion.
After Crosier read a letter from Loving Funeral Home, commending Hammond & Mitchell, H & M Electric, the city of Covington, Dressler, and the city employees for their exceptional work ethic and dedication in the completion of North Maple Ave, the meeting was adjourned.
