One of the more overlooked political races occurring this election cycle is for the City of Fredericksburg’s Commissioner of the Revenue.
The nonpartisan constitutional office serves as the locality’s chief tax-assessing officer. Two candidates, Tamara Stuart and Juan Navarro, are vying to replace the city’s outgoing commissioner, Lois Jacob.
Prior to entering into the race, Stuart spent 25 years in various positions within the federal government. Those offices included serving in the intelligence community and the U.S. Department of Defense. Her last posting was at the Department of the Treasury, where she plans to retire in December after accepting a deal from the Deferred Retirement Program in March.
Tamara Stuart
After spending some time as a substitute teacher in Fredericksburg City schools, Stuart was approached by a former colleague and decided to run for the commissioner’s office.
Stuart said that she takes the duties of the office seriously, noting that tax revenues fund public services like roads, safety and the employees who work in these areas. She seeks to accomplish this by working alongside Jacob and learning the ins and outs before her official retirement.
Stuart also stressed the role of a commissioner in providing accurate recommendations, backed by data and trends, that affect future developments with the appropriate tax rates.
The former federal worker said that her experience has taught her how to learn quickly and adapt to new positions. Stuart said that one aspect she appreciates about the campaign is going door-to-door and engaging with the city’s residents. Should she win the election, consulting with residents is an aspect she plans on continuing.
“I plan to continue volunteering in the community, ensuring I’m accessible to city residents, and giving back. The current office has a strong record of service,” she said. “I hope to build that same level of trust with city residents, businesses, and other city departments.”
Her opponent, Juan “JC” Navarro, also gained experience working for the federal government, which included roles in administration, finance, and public service. A 26-year veteran of the United States Marine Corps, he currently serves as the Deputy Chief for Military Compensation and Benefits Policy for the United States Space Force.
Juan C. Navarro
Navarro said the reason he decided to run was to serve the community by applying the knowledge and skills he’s gained throughout his career. He views the role of Commissioner of the Revenue as blending public service, financial accountability and direct engagement with residents. Navarro said that these aspects all align with his values and experience.
Navarro said his skills will “directly translate to ensuring transparency, fairness, and accountability in managing our city’s revenue.”
If elected, the retired veteran aims to simplify and expand access to tax forms through user-friendly online tools, which offer clearer instructions and easy pickup points throughout the city. He said he’d also seek to ensure that everyone is treated fairly in their tax payments and to use community funds to support schools, parks and services that help families.
Navarro said he wants to establish an environment within the commissioner’s office that encourages open communication and recognizes contributions.
The former Marine also wants to emphasize community service within the office; he seeks to accomplish this through openness with residents and emphasizing to staff that their work directly impacts their well-being.
“Fredericksburg is a diverse and growing city, and I am dedicated to making sure that everyone contributes their fair share, helping to support the services and opportunities that benefit us all,” he said. “Most importantly, I believe trust is built through communication. Throughout my campaign, I’ve made it a priority to engage directly with residents, listen to their concerns, and ensure their voices remain at the center of how our local government serves.
Both candidates will be on the ballot on Nov. 4.
