Don't Increase Commercial Property Taxes in Alexandria, VA

We urge Alexandria City Council members NOT to increase commercial property taxes.

Increasing commercial property taxes will drive away new and established businesses as they search for friendlier jurisdictions. Alexandria shouldn't be chasing off the good local jobs attached to these businesses.

Alexandria's unique economy, especially the small independent businesses concentrated in Del Ray and Old Town, will be inordinately damaged by another tax increase in these economically challenging times.

Should the City Council increase commercial property taxes, Alexandria consumers will face the prospect of higher prices as businesses pass along the costs. Higher prices will especially hurt low-income and less-mobile residents who have a harder time shopping around for lower-priced goods.

Alexandria can capitalize on the recent commercial property tax increases in some other Northern Virginia localities by simply keeping the current tax rate the same. This will naturally drive business and consumers to Alexandria. The City's leaders can use this opportunity to foster a reputation for Alexandria as the most pro-business jurisdiction in Northern Virginia.

Please, protect our small businesses and consumers by rejecting any increase in the commercial property tax.