Purcellville, VA: October 6, 2025 – A legal inquiry has been launched by three Purcellville Town Council members who have filed a complaint with the Loudoun County Circuit Court. The objective is to obtain a declaratory judgment concerning the legality of passing the town’s Fiscal Year 2026 budget without a supermajority vote. Councilmembers Erin Rayner, Caleb Stought, and Kevin Wright initiated this action to resolve uncertainties over whether approval of the Ordinance of Taxes and Fees requires a simple majority or a supermajority.

The Town Attorney’s opinion that a simple majority is adequate has been challenged by previous legal advice and the practices of other municipalities in Virginia. This dispute resurfaced recently during discussions about the approval of agenda minutes related to the budget process.

To seek clarity, the council members have engaged independent legal counsel to determine if significant fiscal decisions should necessitate the approval of five out of seven council members. Their legal action aims to establish a clear precedent for future councils, ensuring governance is both transparent and well-defined.

Notably, the legal basis for this inquiry involves the Virginia Code, specifically Section 15.2-1427, which details the adoption of ordinances and resolutions. Subsection G of this code states that in towns, no tax shall be imposed except by a two-thirds vote of the council members. This statutory requirement underpins the council members’ legal pursuits, highlighting its relevance to ensuring compliance and clarity in municipal decision-making.

Councilmembers Wright, Stought, and Rayner emphasized the importance of definitive legal requirements to uphold the council’s operational integrity. The trio remains committed to aligning Purcellville’s processes with established legal standards, reinforcing their dedication to accountability and transparency in serving the community.