The County is facing a projected $30-40 million budget shortfall for FY 2026.

Last year, to fund the community’s priority needs while responding to budget pressures and challenges, the County Board raised the real estate tax rate for the first time since FY 2020. As we prepare for FY 2026, we anticipate that revenue growth will not keep pace with rising expenses. The County also faces multi-year budget pressures, including a high commercial vacancy rate, the impacts of collective bargaining negotiations, Metro funding, and increased demand for housing and human services programs.

The County transfers almost 47% of local tax revenues to Arlington Public Schools, which is also facing a funding gap that could put additional pressure on the County budget. The Arlington County School Board is responsible for developing their own budget and spending plan. Learn more about the APS budget process on the APS website.

To continue being good stewards of taxpayer dollars, the County must make difficult budget decisions. And that’s why the County Manager needs to hear from you.

Share your feedback below.

Your Budget Priorities

Last year, for the FY 2025 budget, the community’s top priorities were: public safety, transportation, public works, human services, and public health. See the chart below.