The Manassas City Council on May 11 approved the city’s FY 2027 budget, setting the real estate tax rate at $1.24 per $100 of assessed value while repealing the $25 annual vehicle license decal fee, offering some direct relief to households even as assessments and utility rates continue to climb.
The budget, which takes effect July 1, passed with support but drew a dissenting vote from Councilwoman Theresa Coates Ellis. It maintains healthy reserves at approximately $33 million — about 20% of the budget, well above the city’s 15% target — while funding full staffing for Engine 501, competitive salaries and health insurance, schools, and state-mandated social services.
LIVE from Potomac Local News – Crow’s Nest Outdoor Adventure Court Case Update
We’re joined by Mark & Vivian McLeod, owners of Crow’s Nest Outdoor Adventure in Stafford County.
Join us on Sunday, May 31st, from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM for a beautifully curated afternoon celebrating the romance and inspiration of European travel. We recommend arriving at 2:45 PM for the best seating. We’ll begin with a brief presentation highlighting unforgettable journeys along Europe’s iconic rivers with AmaWaterways, followed by a special screening of Under the Tuscan Sun — a heartwarming story set against the breathtaking landscapes of Tuscany and the transformative power of embracing life abroad. A minimum $5 per person donation to Manna Food Center is required to attend, and we are proud to match donations up to $500. You may also elect to donate more. Non-perishable food donations are also warmly welcomed. Raffle proceeds will benefit Manna as well, helping provide nourishment and support to families in our community. Come immerse yourself in the beauty of Europe, enjoy wonderful company, and make a meaningful difference. We look forward to welcoming you.
In Stafford County, a new nonprofit sports facility is stepping up to the plate with a mission that goes beyond wins and losses.
Champion Sportsplex aims to fill a longstanding gap for local sports families. While Stafford has long supported leagues and travel teams, indoor spaces for athletes to practice, train, and develop skills outside of organized schedules have been limited.
In the latest episode of the Potomac Local News podcast, host Uriah Kiser sat down with former Manassas City Councilwoman Lynn Forkell-Greene to unpack a whirlwind week in local politics and ongoing development issues facing the city.
Forkell-Greene, a longtime community advocate and active voice in Manassas affairs, provided insight into the surprise resignation of Delegate Michelle Maldonado and its ripple effects on city leadership.
By Shirleen Guerra
(The Center Square) – The Supreme Court of Virginia on Friday struck down the state’s redistricting amendment 4-3 on Friday.
Manassas Park families attending this year’s high school graduation will enjoy a more convenient evening ceremony instead of the traditional Saturday morning.
City Manager Carl Cole announced at the May 5 governing body meeting that Manassas Park High School’s graduation has moved to Friday evening, June 5, with shuttle operations centered at the city’s four-story parking garage.
By Shirleen Guerra
(The Center Square) – The U.S. Department of Justice has opened a civil rights investigation into the Fairfax County Commonwealth Attorney’s Office, examining whether its policies on plea bargaining and sentencing discriminate against U.S. citizens.
