Join

Exclusive: County agrees to $2.5 million tax settlement with Potomac Mills

WOODBRIDGE — With over 1.5 million square feet and 220 stores, Potomac Mills mall is one of the region’s largest shopping destinations.

More than just shoppers from Woodbridge, where it’s located, the mall regularly inhales visitors from as far away as New Jersey and South Carolina, according to the Simon Property Group, which acquired the center in 2007.

Success for the mall, it seems, has come with a price. In a lawsuit against Prince William County, the mall claims it overpaid by $404.5 million in property taxes between 2013 and 2018. The lawsuit was originally filed in 2016 and then amended to include the tax years 2017 and 2018.

In the lawsuit, the mall claims county assessors overvalued the land on which the mall sits.

The mall sits on two properties — 2700 and 2860 Potomac Mills Circle in Woodbridge. It claims it was overassessed on both properties during each tax year.

According to court documents:

  • 2013: Both properties assessed for a combined  $440.5 million. The mall, however, says the combined value of the properties did not exceed $390 million.
  • 2014: Both properties were assessed for $489 million. The mall, however, says the combined value of the properties did not exceed $395 million.
  • 2015: Both properties were assessed at $508.3 million. The mall, however, says the combined value of the properties did not exceed $400 million.
  • 2016: Both properties were assessed at $496 million. The mall, however, says the combined value of the properties did not exceed $395 million.
  • 2017: Both properties were assessed at $479 million. The mall, however, says the combined value of the properties did not exceed $395 million.
  • 2018: Both properties were assessed for $474 million. The mall, however, says the combined value of the properties did not exceed $380 million.

The mall’s attorney did not respond to a request for comment on this story.

The case was set to go to a bench trial for nine days in March. The Prince William County Board of Supervisors agreed to settle the case in mid-January, offering a tax refund of $2.5 million for all of the tax years the mall claimed it overpaid.

Prince William County Attorney Michele Robl told Potomac Local she does not anticipate the case going to court.

Author

  • I'm the Founder and Publisher of Potomac Local News. Raised in Woodbridge, I'm now raising my family in Northern Virginia and care deeply about our community. If you're not getting our FREE email newsletter, you are missing out. Subscribe Now!

    View all posts

Recent Stories

The Rotary Club of Manassas hosted its 25th Annual Reverse Raffle on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at Bishop Russell Hall, 9290 Stonewall Road in Manassas.

Get ready for a totally tubular night of mystery and fun! Murder Mystery Night – I Love the 80’s to Death is happening in Haymarket, and it’s your chance to step back into the neon-filled 80s for an evening of intrigue.

If you’re looking for a loyal companion to add to your family, Groot might just be the perfect match! This adorable three-year-old arrived at Spotsylvania County Animal Shelter as a stray, and staff are still getting to know him.

The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) is seeking feedback from residents and travelers on a Strategically Targeted Affordable Roadway Solutions (STARS) study assessing potential safety, operational, transit, and bicycle/pedestrian improvements along Hoadly Road (Route 642) between Route 234 (Dumfries Road) and Prince William Parkway (Route 294).

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.

Read More

Submit your own Community Post here.

Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?

On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??

But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.

What’s in store:

Read More

Submit your own Community Post here.

×

Subscribe to our mailing list