For too long, some of the richest companies in human history have not paid their fair share in Prince William County. At the current tax rate of $2.15, data centers pay almost half as much here as they do in neighboring Loudoun County, and 40% less than the tax rate residents pay on vehicles.
Over the last four budget cycles, I have supported the first-ever increases to the Computer & Peripherals rate designed to incentivize and attract what was then a burgeoning industry back in 1999. At the same time, I remained vocal in my belief that those increases did not go far enough. I am hopeful that this Board is ready to sunset sweetheart deals for some of the world’s largest corporations and raise the data center tax to the maximum allowable threshold of $3.70.
This would enable us to offset some of the industry’s impacts by investing in sustainability initiatives, a Purchase of Development Rights (PDR) program, an affordable housing trust fund, and our trail network while limiting the tax burden on residents with a lower-than-advertised real estate tax rate. Additionally, these monies will help the County to fully fund our schools and public safety staffing plans, along with other valued community services and projects.
I have also directed staff to evaluate removing data centers from Prince William’s “targeted industry list,” setting the stage for further economic diversification. I look forward to continuing this discussion with my colleagues as we move toward adopting the FY 2025 Budget.
Join the discussion! Budget Markup takes place tonight, April 16, at 7:30 pm and Mark-up on April 23 at 7:30 pm. You can also reach board members at bocs@pwcgov.org.