The Loudoun Board of Supervisors begins the first of its public hearing on County Administrator Tim Hemstreet’s proposed $1.8 billion budget. Hemstreet has proposed a $1.27 real estate tax rate, but advertised a rate as high as $1.29 to accommodate the delta between the his proposal and the Loudoun County Public Schools request.

Hemstreet proposed the budget to supervisors earlier this month.

The first hearing begins at 3:30 p.m. today, Feb. 22, and continues at 6:30 p.m. after a planned break. A second hearing has been tentatively scheduled for Feb. 23 if all speakers cannot be heard Feb. 22. In addition, another hearing has been scheduled at 9 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 25, at the LCPS Administration Building in Ashburn.

Anyone who wishes to speak may sign up in advance for one speaking slot, beginning Wednesday, February 8, by calling 703-777-0200. Comments may also be provided to supervisors by email at loudounbudget@loudoun.gov, by calling the Citizen Comment Line, 703-777-0115, or by writing to the board at P.O. Box 7000, Leesburg, VA 20177.

More information about the budget can be found online:

• 02-07-12 Proposed FY 13 Budget Presentation  
• Proposed FY 13 Budget Document  
• News Release: County Administrator Presents Proposed FY 13 Budget