Finance, Communications, Government
Finance
There are four banks in Essex: Primis Bank, United Bank, Atlantic Union Bank, and Colonial Farm Credit; with assets ranging from $43.8 million to $700 million.
Essex has an Economic Development Authority empowered to issue revenue bonds.
Communications
Newspapers
- Rappahannock Times Email: raptimes@verizon.net
- published weekly in Tappahannock, (804-443-2200)
- Daily Press
- published daily in Newport News
- Northern Neck News
- published weekly in Warsaw
- Richmond Times Dispatch
- published daily in Richmond
- Southside Sentinel
- published weekly in Urbanna
Radio
WRAR Radio, FM 105.50 and AM 1000, Tappahannock (804-443-4321); WNNT River Country on FM 100.9, Warsaw (804-443-4321); plus reception from Richmond, Northern Virginia, the Middle Peninsula and Northern Neck.
Television
Reception of Richmond area stations including ABC, NBC, CBS, FOX and independent stations. Tri-State Cable Comm (Time Warner) (800-849-7070), supplies cable television service with 33 channels. Several independent suppliers install and service satellite Direct TV receivers.
Local Taxes
Current Tax Year rates - please visit the Tax Rate page
In Virginia, counties, cities and towns are separate taxing entities. A manufacturing company pays either county or city/town tax, depending upon its location. However, if it is located within the corporate limits of a town, it is subject to both city/town and county levies.
Government
Essex County is governed by a five member Board of Supervisors. A County Administrator oversees the daily operation of the county.
The Town of Tappahannock is governed by a seven-member Town Council headed by a Mayor. A Town Manager handles the town's daily activities.
Both the county and town have adopted a comprehensive plan and a zoning ordinance.
Local Economy
Essex County and the Town of Tappahannock serve as a regional trade center due to its strategic location at the junction of Routes 17 and 360.
The economy is varied, from agriculture to manufacturing to services. Principal types of industrial establishments are metal stamping, garment, automotive parts and sub-assembly parts manufacturers.
Major commercial establishments are service-related with food, lodging and retail sales predominating. Agriculture, forestry and fishing industries still play a large role in the local economy, with many establishments serving these industries.
