Frequently Asked Questions for Fiscal Year Beginning 2009

Reading the Budget

Where can I see copies of the proposed Operating Budget and the Capital Improvement Budget?

Copies are available at all City libraries.

Can citizens have approved budget documents for their own personal use?

There aren’t enough copies printed to give a copy to everyone. Citizens may view the documents at the public libraries or at the Budget Office.

Understanding the Budget Document

How can I get a general overview of the budget?

The City Manager’s Message provides a good overview of the budget.

What is the difference between the Operating Budget and the Capital Improvement Budget?

The Operating Budget funds day to day operations and ongoing or recurring expenses. The Capital Budget is for one time expenditures for adding new facilities or roads, or renewal or replacement of existing infrastructure.

What is the total amount of the Approved Operating Budget?

The total amount of the approved FY 2009-2010 Operating Budget is $961,087,838.

Budget Details

Where does the money come from and where does it go?

View as pie chart (clickable).      View exact figures.

How much is budgeted for non-profit and other organizations that have previously received funding from the City?

This information can be found in the Non-Departmental - Outside Agencies budget.

Where can I find how much of the City's budget is allocated for Schools and how that is being allocated?

The City allocates 50% of the total City budget, which equals $469.2 million, to the Schools. For details on the how school funds are allocated, call Chesapeake Public Schools Administration at (757) 547-0153.

If I need help in locating something in the budgets or in finding out if something is funded, where should I call?

Call the City's Budget Office at (757) 382-6158.

The Taxes Citizens Pay

How do I calculate my real estate tax?

The amount of tax you pay is determined by the tax rate applied to your assessed value. The tax rate is set by City council. Based on your Borough definition in the property description, if you are classified mosquito controlled (Mosq) your tax rate is currently $1.05 per $100 of assessed value. If you are in a non-mosquito control (Non-mosq) your tax rate is currently $1.04 per $100 of assessed value.

To determine the annual tax, divide your real estate assessment by 100 and multiply the answer by your tax rate. The result is your yearly tax amount.

How do I calculate my personal property tax?

The current rate for general personal property is $4.08 per $100.00 of assessed value of property. To determine the annual tax, divide your assessment by 100 and multiply the answer by your tax rate. The result is your yearly tax amount.