Board of Supervisors - Budget Public Hearing - 2026-04-01
Meeting Intelligence Preview
Meeting Summary
The Hanover County Board of Supervisors held a budget public hearing on April 1, 2026, presenting the proposed FY2027 budget of $797.5 million (3.4% general fund increase) with no changes to property tax rates, which remain at 81¢ per $100 assessed value. The five-year capital improvement program totals $686 million, including $181 million for roadway improvements, two elementary school replacements, and expansion of the Totopotomay Wastewater Treatment Plant. Multiple residents spoke against hyperscale data center development, urging the board to vote no on upcoming Mountain Road proposals and consider a data center ordinance.
Key Decisions (2)
FY2027 Budget Public Hearing Held
Public hearing conducted on proposed $797.5 million all-funds budget (1.9% increase over FY26) and $458.7 million general fund budget (3.4% increase). Budget includes proposed amendment to add grant-funded school-based clinician. No vote taken; budget consideration continues April 8, 2026.
2026 Real Property Tax Rate Public Hearing
Public hearing held on maintaining the 2026 real property tax rate at 81¢ per $100 assessed value. A rate of 76¢ would generate equivalent revenue to current year; the 5¢ difference funds growth in county obligations. Average reassessment rate was 7%.
Development Activity (5)
Washington and Henry Elementary School Replacement
New elementary school construction breaking ground; part of school improvements fund in CIP
Battlefield Elementary School Replacement
Elementary school replacement included in five-year capital improvement program
Totopotomay Wastewater Treatment Plant Expansion
Design funded in FY27, construction planned for FY30; largest public utilities project in CIP
Airport T-Hangars and Taxiway B Extension
Projects to prepare for and construct additional T-hangars and extend Taxiway B included in Airport CIP Fund
Fire Station Replacements
Replacement of two fire stations included in county improvements fund
Market Signals (5)
Housing Demand
Resident noted home assessment for tax purposes exceeded actual appraised value by $100,000, suggesting potential over-assessment of residential properties in blanket assessments.
Infrastructure
$181 million allocated for roadway improvements over five years indicates significant transportation infrastructure investment planned.
Sentiment
Multiple residents voiced strong opposition to hyperscale data center development, citing health concerns, grid capacity issues, and technology obsolescence risks.
Commercial Demand
County launching tourism initiatives April 8, 2026, with new tools to help residents and guests navigate opportunities, events, and activities throughout Hanover County.
Infrastructure
Mount Herman Road and Campbell's Creek area detour extended from August 6 to August 13, 2026, indicating ongoing road construction work.