Interim City Manager Douglas Keen presented the proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2025 to the Manassas City Council on Monday, February 26, 2024, outlining a comprehensive plan to address various community needs and priorities.
During his presentation, Keen highlighted several key achievements from the previous fiscal year, including the successful establishment of businesses like Micron and Olde Towne Inn and the commemoration of Manassas’ 150th anniversary. He also referenced the findings of the 2022 Manassas Community Survey, which informed the strategic priorities outlined in the proposed budget.
Among the areas of concern addressed in the budget proposal were employee retention through competitive compensation and benefits, increased funding for schools by $1.8 million, rising shared service costs by $715,000, and targeted capital improvements, particularly within the utilities department focusing on parks and recreation enhancements and economic development initiatives. Keen also proposed adding two staff members to the Parks and Recreation department to bolster programming efforts.
The proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2025 reflects a 6.7% increase over the previous year, totaling $330 million. Notable increases were earmarked for general services, social services, stormwater management, the airport, and information technology funds, while decreases were observed in the electric and cemetery trust funds.
Property taxes remain the primary revenue source, accounting for 34% of the budget. Keen recommended maintaining the real estate tax rate at $1.260 per $100 of assessed value. However, the average tax bill is expected to increase by $266, with a corresponding $7.71 increase in the monthly utility bill.
The average proposed increase to the residential tax bill is higher than in neighboring Prince William County, at $243.
Despite a lower overall real estate assessed value growth than the previous fiscal year (6.49% compared to 10.79%), the total taxable real estate assessed value increased to $7.35 billion from $6.9 billion.
The proposed budget for Manassas City Public Schools (MCPS) includes $62.01 million in local contributions, representing an increase from $58.71 million in the previous fiscal year. Additionally, $6.38 million in debt service funds have been allocated as part of the funding strategy.
The budget proposal timeline includes a town hall meeting on March 18 and a public hearing on April 22, with first and second readings scheduled for May 13 and June 10, respectively.
Council members expressed appreciation for Keen’s transparent and informative presentation. Councilmember Mark Wolfe requested a comparison between the proposed FY25 budget and FY16, while others commended the proposal as a promising step forward for the city’s fiscal planning.
With the proposed budget now on the table, the City Council and the community will engage in further discussions and deliberations before finalizing the budget for Fiscal Year 2025. The council will spend the next month delivering the budget, holding a public hearing, and finalizing its spending plan in April.
Caitlyn Meisner documented the Manassas City Council meeting.
Recent Stories
Entrepreneurs, non-profit directors, business leaders, ministers, life coaches, and more: Fredericksburg’s Most Influential Women Awards will once again recognize women who have made meaningful and lasting impacts on their communities.Â
The Stafford Race Series is set to kick off on April 5, 2025, with four races scheduled throughout the year, bringing together runners, families, and fitness enthusiasts for a community-driven experience.
VDOT Announces Road Work in Stafford, Fredericksburg, and Spotsylvania for March 9-15
Prince William County will introduce a 3-1-1 system this spring, streamlining residents’ and businesses’ access to non-emergency government services. The Board of County Supervisors (BOCS) officially recognized March 11, 2025, as National 3-1-1 Day, marking the county’s commitment to improving transparency and responsiveness in local government.
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
