PURCELLVILLE, Va. — The Purcellville Town Council recently met to discuss the town’s budget, navigating a complex set of financial decisions that have significant implications for local services and fiscal health. The discussions took place against a backdrop of public interest and political tension, reflecting the community’s vested interest in the town’s financial direction.
In a tentative agreement, the Council decided to transfer 83.6% of the Meals Tax from the General Fund to the Utility Fund for one year. This decision, however, raises concerns about sustainability, as the town will be unable to maintain this transfer beyond the year without falling below policy levels, and no long-term plan was outlined.
The Council also approved reductions in water and wastewater rates—9% and 11%. According to rate modeling from Stantec, these reductions are temporary. The modeling indicates that water rates would need to increase by 10% next year, with a further 30% increase over the following three years. Wastewater rates could rise by 40% next year, followed by a 20% increase.
Additionally, the Council decided to freeze or not fund 10.6 employee positions, including the Wastewater Laboratory Technician, a role described as “critical to daily operations and regulatory compliance” by Town Manager Fraser.
The Town Manager has been directed to identify an additional $800,000 in budget cuts, with a follow-up presentation scheduled for June 17th.
Political dynamics have also intensified, with a recall campaign initiated against four council members, including Vice Mayor Ben Nett, who is currently the subject of a Virginia State Police investigation.
The Council’s decisions are crucial, considering Purcellville’s financial requirements and the town’s $34 million in capital projects. Public comments during the meeting showcased diverse perspectives on the town’s financial course. One commenter expressed concern about the town’s direction, stating, “I don’t want to be here, a sentiment likely shared by many.” Meanwhile, other constituents concurred that raising water rates was the only viable solution, highlighting the urgency for decisive action.
In response to the proceedings, Council Members Kevin Wright, Caleb Stought, and Erin Rayner issued apologies to the citizens, expressing regret over the behavior of the majority Town Council members. They acknowledged the embarrassment caused by the situation and reaffirmed their commitment to working towards solutions that reflect the community’s best interests.
Adding to the complexity of the town’s financial landscape, the lease for the police department headquarters is set to expire in February 2026. The Council did vote to allocate $1.5 million to renovate this leased facility instead of building on town-owned land. However, no discussions have yet taken place regarding the terms or rates for a new lease.
The majority Town Council has also tasked Town Manager Fraser with identifying an additional $800,000 in expense cuts. It appears unlikely that the majority Council will adjust the police budget, as Vice Mayor Ben Nett is unable to participate in the vote or discussions concerning the police department.
Another expense for the town is refuse collection, costing over $670,000 annually. While eliminating this service could reduce costs, it would require residents to secure individual refuse contracts, potentially resulting in higher expenses for each citizen.
With a June 30 deadline to finalize the budget or potentially face a government shutdown, the Council is working under significant pressure to reach a resolution that ensures the continuity of essential services. “It makes me really nervous that we won’t,” Rayner commented, emphasizing the urgency of passing a budget to avoid disruptions to services such as emergency response and utilities.
The next scheduled Town Council meeting is set for June 17 at 5:30pm, where further discussions and decisions are anticipated.