Gloucester residents were able to voice opinions on financial matters at a pair of meetings this week—last Wednesday’s board of supervisors’ public hearing on the proposed budget and Tuesday night’s budget town hall.

The topic most debated at both events was County Administrator Brent Fedors’ proposal on how to use the 1 percent sales tax increase. Intended to fund eligible school projects, the tax increase was approved by Gloucester residents in a referendum last year.

In his proposed budget, Fedors suggested a portion of the income from the sales tax be used to pay off debt for eligible completed and current projects, as well as future sales tax eligible debt. This discussion has sparked criticism from the Gloucester County School Board, local groups and concerned residents. Virginia law regarding the 1 percent sales tax states that the funds generated are to be used for “new construction or major renovation.”

In remarks opening both meetings, board of supervisors’ chair Dr...