Becky J. Barnes is the new franchise owner of the Liberty Tax Service office at York River Crossing Shopping Center, Hayes.

Barnes purchased the local franchise from her sister-in-law, Lisa Barnes of York County, who had run the business here for about six years.

Barnes has expanded services offered, adding accounting and payroll work to the original and still available tax preparation and filing. Services are available for businesses and individuals.

Barnes said the office will be operated year-round, with the peak season in early spring when she will employ up to 15 people. Her daughter, Jennifer, a recent graduate of Old Dominion University, helps out occasionally.

"We want people to have a good time while they wait," Barnes said, so there’s a play area for children, a television, free soda, popcorn and other snacks.

Born in England, where her father was stationed with the U.S. Air Force, Barnes earned a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree...