Share This Issue on Your Social Media
Stay Connected With Chair Wheeler
Issue 96
Friday, December 17, 2021
Prince William County
Dear Neighbors,

Next week will be the last Wheeler Report issue of 2021. Knowing the last two weeks of the year get rather busy and people's minds can be on other things, this week I devoted a portion of this issue to where we are with COVID-19 in our community and vaccination rates.

While I encourage you to review the visual representations and informative data provided, simply put, COVID-19 isn't behind us. As of December 13, Prince William County has a high level of transmission. As of December 11, our weekly positivity rate was 6.7%. Due to the high transmissibility of the new variant Omicron (issue 94), indications are this will rise over the coming weeks. Fortunately, booster vaccination rates are rising, but we still have significant progress to make.

This is a time of connecting with family and friends. Please, do so safely (issue 95) and take a few moments to encourage all those who is eligible to get the booster shot.

In Service,
Chair Ann Wheeler
Chair's Calendar
On Friday, December 10, Chair Wheeler participated in the Coalition to Save Historic Thoroughfare, the American Indian Society, and United Tribes of the Shenandoah's Walk with Us. The walk from Oakrum Baptist Church in Broad Run to Potters Field and Fletcher-Allen Cemetery was designed to honor Moses Johnson and Frank Allen, two WWI veterans buried at Potters Field Cemetery. Walk participants laid wreaths at their graves to honor their service to the nation and pay tribute to all the slaves, freed slaves, freedmen/freedwomen, and Indigenous people buried in these cemeteries.
On Friday, December 17, Chair Wheeler spoke at the PWC Police Department 49th Session Basic Law Enforcement Graduation Ceremony. Since July 9, the class of 41 worked hard dedicating themselves to their training following the motto of: "Bettering Themselves, Bettering Each Other, Bettering the Community."
On Friday, December 17, Chair Wheeler's office visited the PWC Senior Center in Woodbridge and delivered some holiday cheer. It was great to see such a large crowd of seniors enjoying the day there.
COVID-19 and Vaccination Snapshot
PWC Community Transmission Rate
The level of community transmission in PWC, as well as all of the surrounding counties, remains high.

Graph from the Prince William Health District (PWHD) COVID-19 Dashboard. Data as of December 13.
Graph from the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) COVID-19 Dashboard. Data as of December 13.
PWC New Case Rate
As of December 11, the weekly rate of new cases in PWC was 6.7%.
Graph and data from VDH COVID-19 dashboard.
Virginia Cases by Vaccination Status
Graph and data from VDH Dashboard.
PWC Vaccination Status
Data from VDH COVID-19 Dashboard, updated on December 15.
Graph from PWHD COVID-19 Dashboard. Data as of December 13.
COVID-19 News
Vaccine Recommendation Update
On Thursday, December 16, the CDC announced it is endorsing the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices' (ACIP) updated recommendation of a clinical preference for individuals aged 18 and older to receive mRNA vaccines over the Johnson & Johnson (J&J)/Janssen COVID-19 vaccine. The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) has announced it is adopting this recommendation.
The Prince William Health District released a statement Friday, December 17, that given the current state of the pandemic both here and around the world, the ACIP reaffirmed that receiving any vaccine is better than being unvaccinated. Individuals who are unable or unwilling to receive an mRNA vaccine can continue to have access to J&J’s COVID-19 vaccine. Getting vaccinated and getting a booster dose when you are eligible is still the best way to protect yourself from COVID-19 and prevent severe disease, hospitalization, and death. If people have questions about which vaccine is best for them, they should talk to their healthcare provider.
Reason for the Change

On April 13, the CDC paused administration of the single-dose J&J vaccine for 10 days while federal scientists studied the occurrence of thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome (TTS), a rare blood clotting issue, among the then 7 million people who had received the vaccine. At that time, there were cases of six women who experienced the condition, including one death. Most reports of this serious condition, which involves blood clots with low platelets, occurred in adult women younger than 50 years old. After further study, the pause was lifted when the safety review determined that the vaccine’s benefits outweighed the risks.

Since then, public health officials have been closely monitoring the situation. More recent data show that the rate of TTS in people who received the J&J vaccine is higher than previous estimates in both women and men and in a wider age range, although the problem is still rare. According to the CDC, there have been 54 cases of this clotting condition, between March 2 and August 31. As of December 9, there have been nine deaths. In total, more than 17 million J&J doses have been administered.
“Bottom line, this is simply about following the science. Virginia will be following the CDC’s recommendations, as we have throughout the course of the pandemic. This is all about vaccine safety – as it has been from the beginning. In April, the science indicated we should study this rare blood-clotting condition, and we followed the science then in recommending the 10-day pause. Today, further research indicates that this rare blood-clotting condition, though infrequent, warrants limiting administration of the vaccine. That’s what science is all about: We’ve collected and studied the data and are acting accordingly, all with the goal of patient safety foremost in our minds.”
Dr. Danny Avula, MD, MPH
Virginia’s State Vaccination Liaison
Vaccination and Testing Resources
To learn where you can get vaccinated:


For information on where to get tested if you think you may have COVID-19, visit the PWHD COVID-19 testing webpage.
BOCS
Next Meeting
Tuesday, December 21
at 7:30 pm
at the McCourt Building

Public Hearing on
Magisterial Redistricting
This is an added meeting, specifically for Redistricting. Therefore, the entire meeting is a Public Hearing and Public Comment Time is not listed aa a separate agenda item.

If you wish to speak at the Public Hearing, there is no sign-up process, it must be in person at the hearing, and must be about the redistricting.
Magisterial Redistricting Information
As required by the Constitution of Virginia every 10 years, PWC is working toward finalizing its magisterial redistricting (issue 92). After receiving public comment and feedback from the BOCS, modifications were made to the seven-district map and the Plan 2 district map was created. Details and demographic data for Plan 2 map, which addresses the growth in the County while adhering to legal redistricting requirements and the Board’s adopted redistricting criteria, can be found in the December 7 presentation to the BOCS.
If you would like to provide comment on the Plan 2 map, you are invited to attend the public hearing on December 21 at 7:30 pm in the Board Chambers of the James J. McCoart Administration Building. You may also leave your comments here and they will be shared with the Board prior to the public hearing.
Impact of State and Congressional Redistricting

Based on the Code of Virginia, precincts must be wholly located within local, state and congressional election boundaries. The Supreme Court of Virginia is responsible for redistricting the state and congressional boundaries, which is not expected to be complete before the date of the county’s public hearing.

Therefore, the precincts in the proposed map are based on the proposed local election boundaries and the current state and congressional boundaries. Once the court adopts new state and congressional boundaries, the county will have to reprecinct again in early 2022 to ensure that precincts are wholly located within all election boundaries.
If you would like to read more about the proposed maps for the U.S. House of Representatives, Virginia House of Delegates, and Virginia State Senate or comment on the interactive maps, go here. If you would like to sign up to provide public comment, instructions on how to do so can be found here.
From the December 14 Meeting
A Step Toward Collective Bargaining

The BOCS voted in favor of County officials drafting an ordinance allowing public safety and general county employees to form collective bargaining units. The vote is a step in the process toward possible collective bargaining formation. The ordinance will govern how collective bargaining will work, which employees are eligible and the scope of bargaining. In May of 2021, new laws in the Commonwealth went into effect permitting local governing bodies to enter into collective bargaining agreements with respect to any matter relating to employment, provided that the local government adopts an ordinance authorizing as much.
County News
Creation of a Sustainability Commission
On December 7, the BOCS directed County staff to create a Sustainability Commission that will make recommendations for a Community Energy / Sustainability Master Plan. The plan will meet the county’s goals on energy efficiency, along with regional greenhouse and carbon emission reduction goals, while also take into consideration things such as population projections, economic development goals, equity, diversity, and inclusion.
The Sustainability Commission Will:

  • Be subject to the open meetings and records requirements of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).
  • Be comprised of eight members, one appointed by each Magisterial District Supervisor, and one appointed by Chair Wheeler.
  • Submit a report on its progress towards making recommendations for the Master Plan to the BOCS within 12 months of being established.
  • Monitor progress and update recommendations, as necessary, after adoption of the Master Plan by the BOCS,
Commission's Connection to the County Budget and Strategic Plan

The Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 County Budget, adopted in April of 2021, included funding for a Sustainability Program, which includes the creation of a Sustainability Commission.

The County’s 2021 – 2024 Strategic Plan, adopted in June of 2021, added two strategic areas, Environmental Conservation and Sustainable Growth, which are to:
  • Promote and expand the preservation and protection of natural resources and promote environmental justice.
  • Establish PWC as a leader in promoting sustainable growth that ensures its social, economic, and environmental health.
Road Improvement Feedback Wanted
A Virginia Department of Transportation's STARS (Strategically Targeted Affordable Roadway Solutions) study is assessing nearly three miles of Route 234 Business (Sudley Road) between Battleview Parkway and Godwin Drive in Manassas. The study is looking at existing traffic and safety conditions, as well as significant backups and congestion during morning and evening peak periods. This section of Route 234, based on 2019 survey data, averages about 50,000 vehicles a day. In June of 2021 the team solicited public input that was used to help develop draft operational, safety and accessibility alternatives.
Through Friday, January 14, the study team is now asking for your feedback (Spanish feedback form) on these draft alternative improvements that will be used to develop recommendations for the final report that is scheduled to be released in spring 2022. 
The draft alternatives include:

  • Bicycle and pedestrian enhancements between the I-66 interchange and Balls Ford Road, as well as pedestrian enhancements at the Sudley Manor Drive intersection
  • Additional local bus stops between Balls Ford Road and Godwin Drive
  • Turn lane improvements at the intersections of the I-66 interchange ramps, Balls Ford Road, Coverstone Drive/Williamson Boulevard, Sudley Manor Drive, Lomond Drive, Crestwood Drive, Portsmouth Road and Rixlew Lane
  • Innovative intersection improvements, including a quadrant roadway intersection at Balls Ford Road and a displaced left turn intersection at Sudley Manor Drive

To learn more, you can view a presentation of the study draft improvements in English or Spanish.
PWC Representatives in Richmond Hosting Town Hall
Saturday, December 18, from 9:00 am to 11:30 am, the 2022 General Assembly Delegation representing PWC, City of Manassas, and City of Manassas Park, is hosting a Pre-Session Legislative Town Hall to hear your legislative concerns prior to their 2022 session. The event will be held at the McCourt Building Chambers, at 1 County Complex Court in Woodbridge.
Pre-registration is requested. You can include any questions you have in the in the registration form.
Mark Your Calendar
On Saturday, January 15, at 10:00 am, the PWC Human Rights Commission will virtually celebrate Universal Human Rights Day. The community is invited to share in this important celebration. If you would like to attend, RSVP to the Human Rights office by calling 703-792-4680 or emailing pwhrc@pwcgov.org. Prior to the ceremony, a link will be provided to participate in the virtual program.
The day will include the annual presentation of the Human Rights Awards given to members of the community who provide unique contributions to human and civil rights.

The 2021 winners are:
Celebration Theme

The year’s theme is “Our hope for a more just, safe, and peaceful world can only be achieved when there is universal respect for the inherent dignity and equal rights of all members of the human family.” This theme relates to 'Equality' and Article 1 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights which states, “All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights.”

The principles of equality and non-discrimination are at the heart of human rights. This includes addressing and finding solutions for deep-rooted forms of discrimination that have affected the most vulnerable people in societies. 
On Wednesday, January 26, from 8:00 pm to 12:00 pm (inclement weather back-up date is Thursday, January 27), the PWC Continuum of Care (CoC) is conducting its annual Point-in-Time (PIT) count of persons experiencing homelessness on a single night in January. The PIT is required by the Department of Housing & Urban Development and provides a “snapshot” of the nature and extent of homelessness in our area. The data collected is used to inform funding decisions, support services and resource planning, as well as raise public awareness about homelessness.

The CoC needs your help counting/surveying persons at pre-identified locations who are actively experiencing homelessness the night of PIT. If you would like to help, and meet the volunteer criteria below, register to volunteer here. You will be contacted about a mandatory training day.

The PWC Department of Social Services is the lead for the CoC, which includes Prince William County, City of Manassas, and City of Manassas Park. 
Volunteers Must:
  • Be at least 18 years of age
  • Be comfortable with technology
  • Be available the night of PIT, Wednesday, January 26, 2022 (inclement weather back-up date is Thursday, January 27, 2022)
  • Attend training on a date to be determined

Volunteer Key Duties:
  • Accurately complete surveys on behalf of persons experiencing homelessness
  • Provide/manage incentives for those surveyed
  • Maintain confidentiality of survey data 
County Kudos
Fire and Rescue Medal Day
On Tuesday, December 14, the PWC Fire and Rescue System held its fifth annual Medal Day Awards Ceremony honoring fire and rescue members for exemplary achievements and heroism. The ceremony was preformed virtually due to COVID-19.
The fire and rescue members, recognized, exemplify the daily commitment to exceptional service to the citizens they serve. The awards demonstrate the level of skill and valor with which they respond to each and every emergency call and how they continuously improve their service to our community and its residents. You can see a complete list of those honored here and view the virtual ceremony in the video below.
Significant Designation
The Virginia Department of Education and the Virginia Council on the Interstate Compact on the Educational Opportunity of Military Children have recognized four PWC Public Schools as 2021 Purple Star Designation. The award recognizes military-friendly schools that have demonstrated major commitment to students and families connected to our nation’s military.
The four schools receiving the designation are Ashland Elementary, Tyler Elementary, Parkside Middle, and Porter TraditionalThree of the schools, Ashland Elementary, Parkside Middle, and Porter Traditional, have the unique distinction of being the first schools in the Division to receive the award for the second time since the program’s inception in Virginia in 2018-19. You can read the full list of PWC Purple Heart schools here.
Firefighter's Photograph Wins Award
Congratulations to Firefighter Andrew Ra for being recognized by the International Association of Fire Fighters for his photo artwork. His powerful photograph from his Project Red Line series, shown here, was runner up in the 2021 IAFF Social Media Graphic/Image Category of the Media Awards. Firefighter Ra possesses a unique talent for photography that he loves to share with the fire service. To see his other work, visit his website at The Ra Film Company LLC.
Ann B. Wheeler was elected Chair At-Large of the Prince William Board of County Supervisors during the 2019 General Election and assumed office on January 1, 2020. Prince William County is located 25 miles south of Washington, D.C., and is the Commonwealth of Virginia’s second-most populous county with approximately 482,000 residents.