The Town of Haymarket’s proposed Fiscal Year 2026 (FY2026) budget has sparked a mix of concern and debate among residents following its presentation to the Town Council on Monday, March 3. While the budget aims to balance financial stability with needed investments in public safety, infrastructure, and economic development, some residents question whether it does enough to address the town’s most pressing issues.
Residents Demand Transparency on Tax Rates
During the public hearing, several residents voiced concerns over rising property assessments and their impact on their tax bills. Bob Weir, a former Town Council member and current Prince William County Gainesville Distirct Supervisor, did not mince words when addressing the council.
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The Town of Haymarket’s Fiscal Year 2026 (FY2026) budget will be presented to the Town Council on Monday, March 3, at 7 p.m. by Town Manager and Zoning Administrator Emily L. Kyriazi. The proposed financial plan outlines revenue projections, key expense changes, and priorities for town operations in the coming year.
The FY2026 draft budget builds on previous financial planning while incorporating adjustments for salaries, public safety, infrastructure, and economic development in alignment with the Town’s Strategic Plan.
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Trouvaille Brewing Company, a veteran-owned craft brewery in Haymarket, offers federal civilian employees a small token of support during economic uncertainty—one beer for just a penny. The offer, available through March 14, 2025, is open to all current and recently separated federal employees as a way to show appreciation for their service and dedication.
The brewery, which is co-owned by five partners—three of whom work in federal civilian roles and two who are military veterans—understands firsthand the challenges faced by government employees. Trouvaille Brewing’s owners juggle full-time careers while managing the brewery, hosting events, and building relationships with their community. Their deep ties to the area and shared experiences have made them acutely aware of the struggles many local residents face.
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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. A big concert, backstage secrets, and a shocking crime—can you solve the case? Dust off your best 80s outfit, grab a drink, and get ready for a night of radical fun!
This is a ticketed event with limited availability, and your ticket includes one drink, so don’t miss out!
Want to see more awesome events like this? Submit your own for FREE! Just fill out this form: https://form.jotform.com/221630757468058. It’s super easy—just enter the event details, and we’ll take care of the rest!
The Haymarket Police Department has launched a new initiative to collect and analyze traffic volume data to enhance road safety and improve traffic management in town.
During the Haymarket Town Council meeting on February 3, 2025, Police Chief Allen Sibert shared findings from a speed sign installed on the eastbound lane of Washington Street, the town’s main thoroughfare. The data collected over the past six months revealed that the highest volume of traffic occurs during lunchtime hours, surpassing even the traditional rush hour periods.
"This data is invaluable as it allows us to better understand traffic patterns and adjust enforcement efforts accordingly," said Chief Sibert. "We want to ensure our roads remain safe and that we are using our resources where they are most needed."
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The Haymarket Town Council approved a budget amendment on February 3, 2025, increasing the fiscal year 2024-25 budget by $111,749 to fund the demolition of the former Haymarket Food Pantry building at Haymarket Community Park. The funds will come from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), which the council says was designated for infrastructure improvements.
The decision has sparked debate among council members and residents, with some questioning the public benefit of demolishing the building instead of repurposing it. During the public hearing, resident Marchant Schneider raised concerns over long-term financial impacts, particularly regarding the cost of future public restrooms at the park.
Schneider argued that tearing down the building might lead to higher costs due to removing utility lines, new tap fees, and increased construction expenses for new restrooms. He suggested that instead of demolition, the town should consider repurposing the building for public restrooms, a maintenance workspace for town staff, or an auxiliary office or storage space.
Schneider also questioned whether the demolition was a “sunk cost fallacy,” where the town continues spending money on a project despite rising costs outweighing the benefits.
Town officials defended the decision, stating that ARPA funds were designated for infrastructure projects and that future park improvements, including new restrooms, would be funded using proffer dollars rather than tax increases.
Town Treasurer Roberto Gonzalez emphasized that over $400,000 in proffer funds will be allocated in the next budget cycle to fund park renovations, including public facilities.
Vice Mayor Justin Gallagher acknowledged residents’ concerns but assured them the council had spent years evaluating the best course of action. He said that no matter how the issue is approached, funding will be required for new bathrooms and other park amenities and that the council had vetted the decision over the past four years.
Town officials confirmed that demolition will proceed under a temporary demo classification, which avoids additional costs that could have resulted from a permanent demolition designation.
By securing a temporary demo permit, the town will not have to cut and cap the water main under the new sidewalk, an issue that was previously expected to add to the project’s cost.
The demolition will begin this week, with contractors on site to cap water lines and install fencing before removing the structure.
The Haymarket Food Pantry relocated to Gainesville in 2020 due to increased demand for food assistance. Their new location is 7669 Limestone Drive, Suite 105, Gainesville.
The pantry continues serving Prince William County and surrounding areas, providing food assistance to families in need. Residents looking for support or donation opportunities can visit their website at haymarketfoodpantry.org.
The Haymarket Town Council is set to meet tonight, Monday, February 3, 2025, at 7 p.m. to receive an update from the town manager on several ongoing projects and initiatives. The meeting will occur at the Council Chambers, located at 15000 Washington St., Suite 100, in Haymarket.
Among the key topics on the agenda, town officials will discuss:
- Park Sidewalk Project: Progress continues on the asphalt work, tree planting, and signage installation along Washington Street, with lighting and benches set to be delivered soon.
- Stormwater Assessment Program: Officials have identified three major problem areas for stormwater drainage improvements, with full surveying expected to be completed by April 2025.
- Town Center Development: Town staff are reviewing the latest submission of the site plan, with discussions focused on prioritization and financing.
- Highpointe at Haymarket: The rezoning application for a proposed workforce housing project remains on hold.
- Local Business Check-Ins: Town representatives continue outreach efforts to area businesses, including local breweries, restaurants, and shops.
- Public Works and Maintenance: Officials will discuss snow removal efforts, sidewalk repairs, and other infrastructure updates.
- Upcoming Community Events: Planning is underway for the 2025 Farmers Market season, Summer Concert Series, and Haymarket Day.
Additionally, updates will be provided on zoning inspections, new business openings—including the recent soft launch of the Himalayan Grill—and the implementation of the new CivicPlus system for town communications.
Supporters of Donald J. Trump gathered in Haymarket on January 20, 2025, to celebrate the inauguration of the 47th U.S. President at a watch party hosted by the Bull Run Republican Women’s Club.
The sold-out event, held at Giuseppe’s Ristorante Italiano, drew attendees from across Prince William County and as far away as Peru. Organized under the leadership of Carol Fox, the watch party was described as a joyous occasion that brought local Republicans together to celebrate and enjoy the historic moment.
“The event was a chance to bring Republicans together and have fun watching the inauguration,” said Fox. Adding to the festivities, a dance contest to the tune of “YMCA” delighted guests, with prizes awarded for the most Trump-inspired dance moves. Proceeds from the event will support the Bull Run Republican Women’s Club’s college scholarship program.
Jeff Fuller, a member of the executive board of the Prince William County Republican Committee, praised President Trump’s inaugural address. “It was no-nonsense and forward-looking,” Fuller said, reflecting the sentiments of many attendees.
The Prince William County Republican Committee commended the Bull Run Republican Women’s Club for organizing the celebration and creating an event that energized the community and raised funds for a worthy cause.
Prince William County government offices and facilities will be closed on Monday, January 6, 2025, as officials anticipate potential impacts from adverse weather conditions. The decision was made to ensure the safety of residents and county employees during what is expected to be a challenging day for travel and operations.
The closure affects all county government buildings, including administrative offices, public libraries, community centers, and other public facilities. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about the weather forecast and road conditions, taking precautions as necessary to remain safe.
Essential services, such as emergency response teams, will continue to operate during the closure to ensure public safety and address urgent needs in the community. County officials are closely monitoring the situation and will provide updates as needed regarding any further adjustments to schedules or services.
For more information and updates, residents can visit the county’s official website or follow its social media channels.
