Podcast: Play in new window | Download (43.3MB)
Subscribe: Spotify | TuneIn | RSS | More

Last year, Manassas City officials passed a budget that increased the average real estate tax bill by an average of $198. It was called an “investing year” as the budget included multiple capital improvement projects that included the construction of a new police public safety center, a new fire station, and funding for a project that would remake Grant Avenue — once a main entrance to the city prior to the construction of Prince William Parkway in the 1990s.
This year’s budget process is about “maintaining” the funding the city council committed to funding last year. And, that means city residents are on the hook to pay about $60 more per year on their real estate tax on average.
The proposed tax rate is also about 2.6 percent higher than last year due to another commitment the city council made with the city’s school board to fund the schools with an additional $1.4 million a year for three years.
The city is in year three of that agreement and is in the process of deciding whether or not to keep it up. If the deal is kept and is unchanged, the city’s tax rate could increase up to seven cents on the dollar over the next three years.
Manassas City Manager Patrick Pate talked with us for this episode of the Potomac Local Podcast and gave us an idea as to where officials are in city’s budget process. The budget is set to be approved by city council on May 14.
Recent Stories

Prince William and Stafford County authorities responded to multiple incidents, including the arrest of a 17-year-old for two strong-arm robberies in Woodbridge, a deputy attacked at Mary Washington Hospital, and several DUI-related crashes in Stafford. Police are also searching for a thief who stole a cutout dog ornament from Winding Creek Elementary.

McClung-Logan Equipment Company is hosting its 40th Annual Oyster Roast, a signature customer appreciation event celebrating tradition, community, and generosity.
This year’s milestone celebration will take place on Thursday, March 6th, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Fredericksburg Agricultural Fairgrounds.
The first Oyster Roast began as a fundraiser in 1985, led by White Oak Equipment founder Frank McCarty, to raise donations for an employee battling cancer. This turned into a time-honored tradition for individuals facing hardship.

A Night on the Riviera
Experience a magical evening at the Embassy of France with A Night on the Riviera, an event that will transport you to the glamour of the French Riviera while celebrating the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras!
Indulge in an exquisite selection of French wines and champagne, paired with the finest French cuisine prepared by the talented Chef of the Embassy of France. Additionally, Chef Hugh Cossard will be carving ham live, ensuring freshness and exceptional flavor. Don’t miss out on the authentic French crêpes, made to order and sure to transport you straight to the streets of Nice.
For those seeking an extra touch of exclusivity, the VIP experience includes unlimited champagne, adding an extra layer of sophistication to this festive celebration.
Environmental Film Festival: Turtle Walker
DC Premiere.
In the late 1970s, Satish Bhaskar embarked on an epic journey along India’s coastline and the spectacular Andaman and Nicobar Islands, where he uncovered the vital nesting beaches of sea turtles. During his death-defying quest, he unravels mysteries