The Board of Supervisors held its final committee meetings for 2023 yesterday, Dec. 12. You can watch the meetings here, and click on the links below for meeting agendas and presentations:

• Economic Initiatives Committee
• Environmental Committee
• Transportation Committee

We also enjoyed a visit by Santa and a few elves who stopped by the Government Center with the Fairfax County Police Department's Motor Squad during the annual Santa's Ride. For more than 35 years our officers have collected and donated toys and books to local hospitals to bring cheer to sick children. Thank you, officers, public safety partners and everyone who donated!

A new Board of Supervisors will be inaugurated tonight Dec. 13, and everyone is invited to attend. The next Board meeting is scheduled for Jan. 21, 2024.

Upgrades Coming to Maple Avenue and Nutley Street Corridor

Construction is scheduled to begin soon on a project to upgrade 14 signals to modern-day standards in the Maple Avenue and Nutley Street corridor. The $2.1 million project is expected to help reduce signal wait times and more efficiently move traffic through town. Learn more.

From Reston District Police Station Commander: How to Stay Informed

To our Reston Community,

As we continue to improve our capability to share pertinent information with our community, we have created a sign-up link to receive important updates. Please take a few minutes to review the instructions within the link and subscribe to the email group. Once launched, you will receive important updates and communications from your Reston District Police Station.

Respectfully, Captain Mohammed Oluwa

Security Surveys for Houses of Worship

The Fairfax County Police Department is encouraging faith leaders to request a security survey to assess your facility's security level, recommend modifying policies if needed and offer ways to improve security. Learn more.

Fireplace and Wood Burning Stove Safety Tips

The Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department reminds residents who have a wood-burning stove or fireplace to follow these important safety tips:

• Make sure a licensed chimney sweep cleans and inspects your chimney. This should be done at least once a year or possibly more if you use your fireplace or wood-burning stove frequently.
• Never discard hot ashes inside or near the home. Place them in a covered metal container outside and well away from the house.
• Never use a flammable liquid (gasoline, kerosene, lighter fluid, etc.) to start a fire or rekindle a small one.
• Keep paper, clothing, trash, and other combustibles at least three feet away from your furnace, hot water heater, or wood-burning device.
• Follow manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Many “non-masonry” fireplace/chimney units have limitations on the amount of heat they can safely withstand.

It's Not Too late to get Your Flu Vaccine

Different flu viruses circulate each year and the protection you get from vaccination decreases over time. Getting a flu vaccine every year is the best way to reduce your risk of getting the flu.

How to Help Your Neighbors in Hunter Mill

A summary of local nonprofits in Hunter Mill District with links to needs, events and resources.

Small Businesses: Apply for Small Business Technical Assistance Program

The application process is open until Dec. 21 for the county's THRIVE - a technical assistance program dedicated to small business growth. Through this program, approximately 600 businesses will receive consulting services valued up to $10,000, helping them reach their business goals and continue their post-pandemic recovery. Learn more.

Getting/Giving New Electronics for the Holidays? What to do With Your Old Electronics

If you are donating or recycling your used electronics, make sure you delete all personal information. Also, if possible, remove any batteries from your electronics as they may need to be recycled separately. Learn more.

Popular First Hike Fairfax Photo Contest Returns In 2024

Join hundreds of residents on Jan. 1 and head to a county trail to participate in the First Hike Photo Contest. Sponsored by the Fairfax County Park Authority and Park Foundation, the contest is open to amateur and professional photographers. Photo submissions are accepted in four categories – Scenery/Landscapes, People, Wildlife and Pets. Learn more and get some inspiration from the slideshow video below.