City of Alexandria, Virginia
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MEMORANDUM
DATE: MARCH 23, 2020
TO: THE HONORABLE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF CITY COUNCIL
FROM: MARK B. JINKS, CITY MANAGER /s/
DOCKET TITLE:
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Introduction, First and Second Reading, Public Hearing and Final Passage of an Emergency Ordinance to impose a moratorium on penalties and interest for Restaurant Meals Taxes, Transient Occupancy Taxes and BPOL taxes; and consideration of resolutions to change the filing deadline for Business Personal Property and Elderly and Disabled Tax Relief Applications.[ROLL-CALL VOTE]
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ISSUE: Consideration of an Emergency Ordinance imposing a moratorium on penalties and interest for the Restaurant Meals Tax, Transient Occupancy Taxes and BPOL taxes; and consideration of two resolutions changing the filing deadline for Business Personal Property and Elderly and Disabled Tax Relief Applications.
RECOMMENDATION: That Council introduce the emergency ordinance, hold a public hearing and pass the emergency ordinance, and approve both resolutions on Tuesday, March 24, 2020.
BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 global pandemic has resulted in unprecedented challenges for the entire community. Staff has been participating in meetings and discussions with the business community to identify potential solutions that can help alleviate the financial pressures facing businesses that have been significantly impacted by social distancing, as well as the virtual elimination of the travel and tourism industry.
DISCUSSION: Staff has examined the various taxes that are remitted by the business community and the timing of the payments and filing of tax forms to determine the most effective way to quickly provide assistance to the business community. The following temporary changes are recommended:
Meals Tax
Restaurants and grocery store owners are required to charge a 5 percent tax on the cost of all meals ready for immedi...
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