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Dear Neighbor, 

The Board of Supervisors will hold its first meeting after the summer recess on Tuesday, August 26. Earlier this week, a constituent asked me about what goes on at and how to watch our meetings, and it got me thinking that this might be a good time to provide this group with a basic primer on Board meetings in case you’ve never been to one either!

Full Board meetings are held on Tuesdays (once or twice a month) at 9:30 a.m. in the Board Auditorium at the Fairfax County Government Center, 12000 Government Center Parkway. The meetings are open to the public. For the full meeting schedule, visit this webpage. If you can’t make it in person, you can watch the meetings live on the website or on Channel 16. You can also watch the meetings on demand – they’re available the next day.  

The morning schedule usually includes:

• Presentations – this is where the Board of Supervisors honors individuals, groups, organizations or events. Typically, a Supervisor reads the Board resolution or proclamation, the recipient speaks in acceptance, and we have a chance to take a picture to commemorate the event. For example, I introduced our presentations celebrating the 35th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act and our Pride Proclamation.
• Board Matters – this is where an individual Supervisor requests that the Board direct staff to do something such as write a report, study an issue, present a topic at a committee meeting, publicize an event, or prepare a resolution to honor an organization. You can see my Board Matters here.
• Administrative items – these are generally straightforward things recommended by the County Executive that do not require a public hearing, such as advertising a public hearing, authorizing the County to enter into certain agreements, or simple changes to parking or roads or bus routes.
• Action items – these are other typically straightforward matters that do not require a public hearing. One example is authorization for staff to apply for federal grants.

The morning schedule usually wraps up by 12:30 p.m. and then the Board breaks for lunch. After lunch, the Board has closed session, where we discuss certain matters, such as legal topics, that the law allows us to discuss in a meeting that is not open to the public.

The Board then returns to the Auditorium around 3:30 p.m. for public hearings on land use cases and/or certain County code changes. Some of the agenda items draw many speakers and some draw none at all.

The Board meetings are long and may not be the way that you want to spend your day so I try to highlight what I think is important in my newsletter and on social media.

The Board also has Committee meetings. They are a good way to get into the details of Board initiatives and topics that affect the County. They are held on Tuesdays when we do not have Board Meetings. Nearly all of our committees are committees of the whole, but individual Supervisors chair various committees. I chair the Transportation Committee, for instance. Committee meetings are an hour and a half long and start at 9:30 a.m. and we typically have a few in a row. All committee meetings except those of the Audit Committee are also streamed live online, broadcast on Channel 16, and are available on demand. All committee meetings are held in Room 11 at the Fairfax County Government Centers and are open to the public.

As an example of how committees typically tackle issues, you might recall that we had a big snowstorm back in January where there were many concerns about inadequate plowing. I brought a Board Matter on January 14 directing staff to invite VDOT to a committee meeting to review the plowing efforts during the storm. Our April 8 Transportation Committee meeting featured an after action report from VDOT and a discussion of what happened.

I hope this primer is helpful and allows you to be more engaged with the work of the Board of Supervisors. I look forward to hearing from you at my upcoming Fall town halls. First up is McLean on September 2!

All the best,

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Solas Concert at Arrowbrook Centre Park

McLean Community Center Sculpture Celebration

Supervisor Bierman will be hosting three town halls this fall:

• McLean - September 2
• Herndon - October 8
• Great Falls - November 13

All town halls will run from 7 p.m. to 8:15 p.m. Supervisor Bierman will be taking questions at the town halls, or you can submit questions or topics that you would like covered by emailing them in advance to DranesvilleBOS@fairfaxcounty.gov with the subject line “Town Hall Question.” We look forward to hearing from you!

Back-to-school season is here, and you can help Herndon Middle School students start the year strong and stay on track. By donating new backpacks, school supplies, healthy snacks, or gift cards, you’ll be supporting students’ ability to learn, grow, and thrive—both in and out of the classroom. When students are equipped with the tools they need and have access to nutritious snacks, they are better prepared to focus, connect with others, and succeed throughout the year. Donations can be dropped off by August 30 at the McLean Governmental Center (1437 Balls Hill Road) between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Gift cards to major retailers are also encouraged to help families purchase exactly what they need.

It's back-to-school time! Fairfax County Public Schools began on Monday, August 18, with private schools also begining around the same time.

With more than a million residents, our roads are normally busy, but school buses add an extra layer of vehicles, while school zones and crossing guards are looking out for the safety of our children. There are more than 180,000 FCPS students and 200+ schools in Fairfax County. While it may be tempting if you’re in a hurry, it is never OK to pass a school bus, speed through a school zone or ignore a crossing guard’s direction.

For more information about back-to-school road rules, please visit Road Rules for School Buses, School Zones and Crossing Guards.

Wave 4 of the Fairfax County Police Department’s Road Shark traffic safety campaign concluded with strong results. Between August 4 and August 10, officers issued more than 12,700 citations and warnings, to include over 750 speeding citations and 244 reckless driving citations. In partnership with the Virginia State Police, this high-visibility effort continues to crack down on aggressive driving, promote safer roads, and prevent crashes. For more information, please visit Road Shark Wave 4.

Fairfax County Department of Transportation (FCDOT) invites residents and commuters to provide feedback on the updated draft of the Active Transportation and Trails Plan (ATTP) – a unified document that merges the Fairfax County Bicycle Master Plan and the Countywide Trails Plan. The ATTP aims to build a safer, comfortable, and convenient network for people walking, biking, and using other forms of active transportation. Take the survey by September 19 here.

Fairfax County offers programs to help older homeowners afford home repairs. The Home Repair for the Elderly Program provides minor home repairs to eligible low- and moderate-income elderly homeowners. Rebuilding Together-AFF, a nonprofit, provides free home repairs for low-income homeowners, serving seniors, people living with disabilities, families with children and veterans. For more information about eligibility for these programs, please visit Home Repair Programs Serving People in Need.

The Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board (CSB) is thrilled to announce that the Addiction Medicine Clinic (AMC) at the Sharon Bulova Center for Community Health in Merrifield is now offering extended hours to better serve you! Starting immediately, AMC’s new hours of operation are:

Monday – Thursday: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Friday, Saturday, and Sunday: 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

These extended hours will help ensure that support and care for individuals with opioid use are accessible, even during non-traditional business hours. The AMC offers services such as Medication Assisted Treatment (Suboxone/buprenorphine) and admission to Office Based Addiction Treatment (OBAT) for ongoing recovery support.

For more information, contact the Addiction Medicine Clinic at 703-559-3188 or reach out to CSB Entry and Referral by calling 703-383-8500 or emailing csb@fairfaxcounty.gov.  

The McLean Volunteer Fire Department, in conjunction with Inova, will be hosting a blood drive at the fire station. Visit MVFD Blood Drive August for more information, including how to book an appointment.

Friday, August 22

1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

McLean Volunteer Fire Department

1455 Laughlin Avenue

The Maker Lab is a space designed for those who love to learn, discover, and explore. It’s a place where community members can develop new skills, work on creative projects, and connect with fellow makers. The Maker Lab provides access to a wide range of tools and equipment, including a 3D printer, sewing and embroidery machines, Cricut and Cameo cutting machines, robotics, circuits, and more.

Drop-in time is self-directed. While staff may not always be available to provide expert assistance with every device and tool, they are committed to supporting Makers as they create, explore, and make the most of this exciting library space. The Maker Lab welcomes Makers ages 12 and up. For opportunities for Makers under the age of 12, please ask at the information desk.

Friday, August 22

3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Herndon Fortnightly Library

768 Center Street

Herndon

This powerful reimagining of Alice in Wonderland is the culmination of NextStop's Teen Summer Intensive program. With a haunting score and unforgettable performances from the next generation of theatre-makers, Alice By Heart is a full production brought to life by rising stars. Tickets are just $15 - don’t miss this limited run!

The Herndon-Reston Rotary Club is collecting non-perishable food items and hygiene products for the LINK Food Pantry. Your contributions will help families in need. Together, we can make a meaningful impact. Thank you for your generosity.

Saturday, August 23

10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Arts Herndon

750 Center Street

Herndon

Tired of the same old puzzles and board games? Swap out your new or gently used puzzles and board, card and party games with other enthusiasts. Please make sure items are in good condition and complete. All ages are welcome.

Saturday, August 23

1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Dolley Madison Library Meeting Rooms 1 & 2

1244 Oak Ridge Avenue

Come see Sticktime and The Who's Your Daddy Horns this Saturday as part of the Concerts at Arrowbrook Centre Park series in Herndon. Sticktime and The Who's Your Daddy Horns, is a dynamic and electrifying musical ensemble that blends elements of rock, funk, Motown and soul to create a truly unique sound. With infectious rhythms, soulful melodies, and captivating performances, Sticktime & The Who's Your Daddy Horns have delighted audiences everywhere they have traveled. From intimate club settings to large festivals, their music transcends genres and brings people together in a celebration of rock, groove and soul.

Saturday, August 23

7:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Arrowbrook Centre Park

2351 Field Point Road

Herndon

Are you thinking about buying a home, but not sure where to start, or if you're ready financially? Virginia Housing's free First-time Homebuyer Class can help. You'll learn the entire homebuying process from start to finish, and how to stay on track as a responsible homeowner. Visit Homebuyer Education - Patricia Wallach to register.

Sunday, August 24

9:15 a.m. to 3:45 p.m.

Cornerstones Main Office

11150 Sunset Hills Road Suite 210

Reston

Pack up the family, a blanket, lawn chairs and a picnic dinner or grab takeout at a local restaurant! Meet at the gazebo on the Village Centre Green for a laid-back a concert by The Outpatients and good times with your neighbors.

For more information about the Concerts on the Green, please visit this webpage.

Please note that dogs are not allowed at the Village Centre Green and no alcohol is permitted on the green.

Sunday, August 24

6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Village Centre Green

754-C Walker Road

Great Falls

Read to Jackson the therapy dog! Bring your own book or choose one from the library. This program is intended for children ages 4-12.

Tuesday, August 26

4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Great Falls Library

9830 Georgetown Pike

Great Falls

Applications are now open for the Public Health Youth Ambassador Program's Fall 2025 cohort. The Public Health Youth Ambassador Program (PHYAP) trains 10th through 12th grade high school students across Fairfax County about methods to reduce opioid use, teen mental health issues, and becoming a Community Health Worker. PHYAP provides certifications from two nationally-known public health institutions (Morehouse College and George Mason University) in each of those areas during its Fall and Spring cohorts. The application deadline for the Fall 2025 cohort is 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 28. Visit Public Health Youth Ambassadors to learn more about the Public Health Youth Ambassador Program, including how to submit an application.

Clear The Shelters is back! Adoption fees will be waived for all pets throughout the weekend, including dogs, cats, rabbits and more. For more details, please visit Clear The Shelters: Fee-Waived Adoption Event.

Friday, August 29

12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

&

Saturday, August 30

11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

&

Sunday, August 31

11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Locations:

• Michael R. Frey Campus: 4500 West Ox Road, Fairfax
• Lorton Campus: 8875 Lorton Road, Lorton

Holy Transfiguration Melkite Greek-Catholic Church will host its 32nd annual Middle Eastern Food Festival. The festival will feature authentic Middle Eastern food, pastries, music and dancing, as well as vendors, church tours, and activities for both children and adults.

The festival will be held rain or shine. Admission and parking are free. To learn more, including how to order in advance, visit Middle Eastern Food Festival – Holy Transfiguration Church.

Saturday, August 30

11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

&

Sunday, August 31

12:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Holy Transfiguration Church

8501 Lewinsville Road

McLean

The McLean Community Center’s (MCC) Governing Board begins work on its Fiscal Year 2027 budget by holding two public meetings in September. The board invites residents of Dranesville Small District 1A to attend the meetings as they pay a real estate surcharge to support the center. All MCC Governing Board meetings are open to the public.

The first budget meeting will be held in person on September 3. At the Finance Committee Meeting of the Whole, MCC Finance Committee Chair Peter Pin and the full board will examine the proposed FY2027 budget as presented by the MCC staff. District residents are encouraged to attend the meeting to observe; however, public comment is reserved for the Public Hearing, which will be held Wednesday, September 24.

For more information, call MCC at 703-790-0123, TTY: 711 or visit the center’s website.  

Wednesday, September 3

6:30 p.m.

1234 Ingleside Avenue

McLean

Saturday, September 6

Old Firehouse Center

1440 Chain Bridge Road

McLean

The Solid Waste Management Program is excited to share the positive changes made to enhance their service delivery and communication during the upcoming leaf collection season. Over 3,800 residents responded to the 2024 Vacuum Leaf Collection Customer Service Survey. Additionally, staff reviewed over 3,400 comments. This valuable survey feedback is incorporated into the 2025 vacuum leaf season. Learn more on the County vacuum leaf collection webpage. County vacuum leaf collection customers are invited to join a virtual information session where staff will provide updates on the upcoming season. See the link to the virtual information session below.

Wednesday, September 10

6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Microsoft Teams Meeting Link

Meeting ID: 231 751 498 411 2

Passcode: PV3RV63g

Dial in by phone

1-571-429-5982

Phone conference ID: 644 596 26# 

Discover a wealth of community and health services and programs available in your neighborhood. Learn how to take important preventative steps ensuring good health. Connect with local organizations, clinics, and experts dedicated to your family's well-being. The Fairfax County Sheriff's Department will be offering free Child ID services. Enjoy food, family-friendly games, raffle prizes and more.

Saturday, September 13

10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Herndon Neighborhood Resource Center

1086 Elden Street

Herndon

Stuff the Bus has been a critical resource for local food pantries and families struggling with food insecurity. In partnership with local grocery stores, volunteers, and community organizations, the program collects non-perishable food items and financial donations at various locations throughout the county. This collaboration helps keep the shelves of local pantries and food providers stocked throughout the year.

Stuff the Bus in Herndon to benefit LINK:

If you plan to donate to the Stuff the Bus food drive at this location, please consider giving items from this list.

• Spaghetti
• Pasta Sauce
• Boxed Mac and Cheese
• Canned Mixed Vegetables
• Small Bottles of Cooking Oil
• Old Fashioned Oatmeal
• Peanut Butter
• Jelly

Saturday, September 13

10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Giant

2425 Centreville Road

Herndon

Stuff the Bus in McLean to benefit SHARE of McLean:

If you plan to donate to the Stuff the Bus food drive at this location, please consider giving items from this list.

• Canned Fruit and Fruit Cups
• Canned Chicken
• Canned Beans (chickpeas, kidney, black)
• Canned Tomatoes (sauce, diced, whole)
• Pasta Sauce (plastic, 24 oz.)
• Pasta (elbow, penne, spaghetti)
• Peanut Butter (16 oz.)
• Instant Oatmeal (box)

Saturday, September 13

10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Giant

1454 Chain Bridge Road

McLean

VDOT: 495 NEXT Updates

Overnight I-495 Lane Closures Near Georgetown Pike



Beginning Monday night, August 18, and continuing for two weeks, 495 NEXT crews will implement triple lane closures with traffic stoppages on northbound and southbound I-495 between the American Legion Memorial Bridge and the Dulles Corridor Interchange for construction on the new Georgetown Pike Bridge. Closures will occur from 9:30 p.m. to 5 a.m. and intermittent traffic stoppages of up to 30-minutes each will happen between midnight and 5 a.m. The ramp from northbound GWMP to southbound I-495 will also be closed nightly 10 p.m.–5 a.m., beginning Sunday night, August 17, and continuing Monday through Saturday nights for approximately two weeks. 

Transurban's Express Lanes Community Grant Program

Groups dedicated to improving communities along the 495 NEXT corridor are invited to submit applications for Transurban's 495 NEXT Community Grant program.

The next deadline to apply for a community grant is September 30, 2025.

Click here to learn more about Transurban’s Express Lanes Community Grant programs and how to apply. 

Lane Closures & Traffic Changes Report for the upcoming week will be posted tomorrow at the 495 NEXT Lane Closures webpage. Sign up to get news and updates on 495 NEXT lane closures and project updates, here.

Check out the 495 NEXT interactive map, project background and more information by visiting 495NEXT.org. If you have any questions or concerns about the 495 NEXT project, please feel free to contact the project team at 495NorthernExtension@vdot.virginia.gov or 703-592-6430.

Travelers should stay informed and prepared by:

• Checking VA 511 by using 511virginia.org or via the mobile 511Virginia app
• Following VDOT on social media at:
• X (formerly Twitter): @VaDOTNOVA and @VaDOT
• Facebook: VDOT NOVA District
• Nextdoor: Virginia Department of Transportation
• Signing up for construction updates and alerts
• Calling the Construction Information Lane at 703-592-6430

Construction efforts to rehabilitate the George Washington Memorial Parkway (GWMP) are underway between I-495 and Spout Run Parkway. Construction activities will impact drivers and park visitors for the duration of the rehabilitation.

Learn More & Stay Connected:

• To opt in to receive email updates about traffic, meeting notices and information about major milestones, please click here.
• To contact the project team, please e-mail the National Park Service.
• View recordings of informational public meetings on the public meeting webpage.

www.fairfaxcounty.gov/dranesville

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