Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Business Improvement District, or a BISD?
Business improvement service districts (BISD) are defined areas in a city or county in which property owners pay an additional, annual special tax (on top of the standard real property taxes) which is utilized to promote and improve the business environment within the BISD. BISDs are typically governed by a dedicated board of directors and are led by an executive director and key staff. BISDs organize and manage services, activities and events in the BISD, as well as arrange amenities above and beyond what a city or county would typically provide.
A business improvement service district is term utilized for a BID in Virginia, consistent with the Code of Virginia, Title 15.2-2400.
Why is a business improvement service district needed in Old Town?
After the pandemic, it became abundantly clear that Old Town needed an organization dedicated to its specific needs. One organization to manage events, to market to a targeted regional audience, to serve as one voice with City Council and staff, and to help new and existing businesses grow and flourish. Old Town Business is a volunteer-led organization with a very small budget which makes sustainability difficult and growth impossible. As a BISD, Old Town Business could do more with more. Considering the increase in competition in the DC Metro Area, in Alexandria, and online, the time has come to invest in the economic sustainability and growth of Old Town.
How do I know if my parcel of property is in the OTB-BISD?
Click here to see the map of the OTB-BISD and the description
How will the OTB-BISD be funded?
A special district tax will be billed to certain parcels of property in the OTB-BISD. The special tax will be billed alongside the City’s standard real property tax. Click here to learn more about the special district tax.
How much will I have to pay?
Click here to learn more about the OTB-BISD tax
If my parcel of property is exempt from real property taxes, will the OTB-BISD tax be billed to me?
No. Parcels that exempt from real property taxes, as determined by the City on annual basis, will not be billed that year’s Old Town Business – Business Improvement Service District tax.
If my parcel of property is solely used for residential purposes, will the OTB-BISD tax be billed to me?
No. Parcels that used solely for residential purposes, as determined by the City on annual basis, will not be billed that year’s Old Town Business – Business Improvement Service District tax.
If my parcel of property is used for commercial and residential purposes, will the OTB-BISD tax be billed to me?
Yes.
Who will be in charge of the OTB-BISD?
The OTB-BISD will be led by and managed by an Executive Director. The OTB-BISD is expected to have between two and four staff members. The OTB-BISD will be governed by a Board of Directors. Click here to learn more about the governance of the OTB-BISD.
Who will serve on the Board of Directors?
Click here to learn more about the Board of Directors.
My business is located outside of the OTB-BISD but I would like to get involved; is that possible?
OTB-BISD aims to create an Associate Membership for those that own property or businesses outside of the BISD. Details on services offered and price are to come.
Can I print the petition form, sign it, and send it in?
Yes. Click here for a printable version of the petition. Once executed, please provide it to Old Town Business by either of the following methods:
Mail to:
Old Town Business
P.O. Box 1294
Alexandria, VA 22313
Or:
Email to: [email protected]
When could the BISD potentially start?
Old Town Business plans to begin the formal approval process with Alexandria City Council in March, with the goal of having the OTB-BISD fully approved later this spring.
What is the deadline to submit the petition and/or letters of support?
The deadline for submission is May 31, 2023.
How many signatures are needed for this BISD process?
Old Town Business needs 60% of the property owner’s support to sign the petition.
I want to help support efforts and get others to sign the petition and/or register their support. How can I assist?
Individuals can share the link to our website and the petition with fellow Alexandria business owners who would reside in the BISD.