Vote YES Meals Tax

Six years of teaching in Fairfax County Public Schools has given me an insider’s perspective on the quality of education that has been provided to our communities. Sadly, that quality is diminishing. There is an increasing demand for resources, space and, most importantly, excellent teachers who can meet the needs of a highly diverse and rapidly growing student population.

Currently, a majority of the burden to fund our schools rests on homeowners in the form of property taxes. Fairfax County residents have an opportunity to broaden the tax base and avoid increasing property taxes by VOTING YES FOR THE MEALS TAX. A 4% Meals Tax on prepared foods is estimated to raise approximately $100 million in much needed revenue to fund our schools and other county services.

Many families choose to live in Fairfax County, in part, because of the great schools. The excellent reputation of FCPS attracts businesses, raises home values and is the heart of a thriving community. Unlike neighboring counties, Fairfax County is currently the only jurisdiction in Northern Virginia that does NOT have a meals tax.

As an educator, a homeowner and a citizen who believes in investing in our community, I am proud to VOTE YES FOR THE MEALS TAX this Election Day.

Vote Yes for the Meals Tax. Learn more at yesmealstax.org.

Sincerely,

Jessica Bowser

Alexandria, VA