NEW BUDGET DOES NOT INCLUDE ADD-ON TAX TO BUSINESS
City Council Heeds Vigorous Call from Business

Alexandria, Virginia, May 3, 2011: Fitness on the Run, Old Town’s Premier Fitness Studio applauds the Alexandria City Council for passing a budget without the Commercial Add-on Tax (CAT). Last night, after hearing strong opposition from a coalition of small business owners about the proposed CAT, the Alexandria City Council heeded the advice of the City’s most important asset: small businesses, deciding not to include this tax in its budget.

The tax, proposed to fund additional transportation needs would have meant thousands of dollars in additional taxes to small businesses. More than 25 business owners testified at a special hearing before the Council on April 16, including Fitness on the Run’s Founder and co-owner Adrien Cotton. Cotton stated, “As a committed business owner struggling to remain in the black during a tough economy, this tax would be a hit we cannot afford to take. Make no mistake about it, Old Town is our home. At Fitness on the Run, what we enjoy most is seeing people make serious changes to their lifestyles that will ultimately increase their longevity. We are proud to be part of a tight-knit business community, coming together to support each other and the City residents we serve.”

Fitness on the Run would like to thank the City Council for inviting us to speak, for listening to our request and for making the right decision.

Contact:

Margaret Smith
Fitness on the Run
109 South Alfred Street
Alexandria VA 22314
703-299-9333

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