Arlington Manager Proposes FY27 Budget with Cuts, Tax Hike Amid Slow Growth

The $1.69 billion budget proposal includes $10.6 million in cuts and a 1.5-cent real estate tax rate increase.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Arlington County Manager Mark Schwartz has proposed a $1.69 billion budget for fiscal year 2027, which includes $10.6 million in funding cuts and a 1.5-cent increase to the real estate tax rate. The budget accounts for slow revenue growth and increased expenses over the past three years, with commercial property assessments decreasing by 1.5% due to continued weakness in the commercial office sector.

Why it matters

The proposed budget reflects the ongoing economic challenges facing Arlington County, including regional uncertainty and federal government actions that have impacted the local economy. The budget cuts and tax increase aim to balance the county's competing priorities and economic realities.

The details

The proposed budget recommends $10.6 million in service reductions and efficiencies, which could lead to the elimination of 56 staff positions, 24 of which are currently filled. Proposed reductions include eliminating competitive and recreation gymnastics at Barcroft Community Center and closing Cherrydale Library. Staffing adjustments are also proposed for the fire department and Arlington Economic Development.

  • The Arlington County Board will hold a public hearing on Tuesday to consider authorizing advertisements for proposed tax rates and fee changes.
  • The Board will review the budget proposal and conduct work sessions starting in early March.
  • A public hearing for the budget is scheduled for Tuesday, March 24, and for the tax rate on Thursday, March 26.
  • The final vote on the FY 2027 operating budget is scheduled for Tuesday, April 21.
  • The fiscal year begins on July 1, 2026.

The players

Mark Schwartz

Arlington County Manager who proposed the FY 2027 budget.

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What they’re saying

“The proposed FY 2027 budget works to balance the many competing priorities and economic realities facing our community.”

— Mark Schwartz, Arlington County Manager (Patch.com)

What’s next

The Arlington County Board will hold a public hearing on Tuesday to consider authorizing advertisements for proposed tax rates and fee changes.

The takeaway

The proposed FY 2027 budget for Arlington County reflects the ongoing economic challenges facing the community, including slow revenue growth and increased expenses. The budget cuts and tax increase aim to balance the county's competing priorities, but the final outcome will depend on the public input and review process.