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With people not paying their property taxes in Prince William County (web|news), it could be considered another sign of the tough economic times.
Prince William County prides itself on a 99% tax collection rate, but this year there are signs that payments are not being made. While there are no hard numbers yet, it's troubling in a county where foreclosures are up and property values are down.
"I think it's sad. It's a really sad thing for people to have to go through. I'm sure there, around here, a lot people can't even afford to pay their taxes with the economy dropping and people losing their jobs," said taxpayer Stephanie Lawshe.
Foreclosure rates in the county are at an all time high.
"We're not surprised to see collections slow down a little bit," said Prince William County Finance Director Chris Martino.
He said along with a 15% drop in real estate assessments, it is personal property taxes where there's a new stall. The car tax as its called pays for a sticker on vehicles, including boats and motorhomes. The county has sent two and three reminders to those who have to pay up.
"We do work with folks. We do try to help them make payments over time," said Martino.
If the county doesn't hear from those who haven't paid, they have ways of trying to collect, like placing liens.
"You always worry when you have to pay taxes." Contractors like Wagner Valle say he's seen a 40% drop in business. He's not paying as much in fees and taxes for new construction, another source of revenue for the county. "We just have to wait as see what's going to happen."
County leaders say they are watching the situation closely. They say they have other money to compensate for any losses before they would have to do anything like consider a tax hike of any kind. Meantime, neither Arlington nor Fairfax Counties are reporting a drop in property tax revenue.
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