Friends,

As we continue the FY2027 budget process, one of the most important steps is hearing directly from you. Community input plays a critical role in shaping our annual budget and helps ensure that the decisions we make reflect the needs and priorities of Fairfax County residents.



Public hearings on the FY2027 Budget will be held at the Fairfax County Government Center Board Auditorium at:

• 4:00 p.m. on April 14,

• 3:00 p.m. on April 15,

• and 3:00 p.m. on April 16, 2026.

In addition, a separate public hearing on the FY2027 effective tax rate increase will take place on April 14 at 3:00 p.m. in the Board Auditorium.

These hearings provide an important opportunity for residents to share their perspectives as we work toward a final budget.

There are several ways to participate. Residents may testify in person, by phone, by video, or by submitting written testimony. Please note that participants must be Fairfax County residents. Language services are available upon request to ensure everyone has the opportunity to be heard.

I strongly encourage you to review the advertised budget plan and take part in this process and make your voice heard.

You can find more information on the budget hearings, including how to sign up and testify, here. If you have any additional questions regarding providing testimony, contact the Department of Clerk Services.

Your input is essential as we work together to shape a budget that reflects our community’s priorities and positions Fairfax County for the future.

Sign up ahead of time to reserve your spot on the speakers list.

• Guest on WAMU’s The Politics Hour
• Testifying Before Congress on Parkway Safety
• Scam Jam: Learn How to Protect Yourself and Loved Ones
• Have Questions About Accessory Living Units (ALUs)?

What did you advocate for during your recent testimony on Capitol Hill? I recently had the opportunity to testify before Congress in support of legislation introduced by Don Beyer aimed at improving safety on the George Washington Memorial Parkway and other national park roads.

What is the Parkway Safety and Reinvestment Act? The proposed legislation would allow the National Park Service to retain and reinvest funds generated from speed cameras on parkways, helping support critical safety improvements and infrastructure needs.

Why is this important for our community? Speeding continues to be a serious concern on the George Washington Memorial Parkway, which sees millions of drivers each year. Data shows that excessive speeds contribute to the frequency and severity of crashes, putting drivers at risk.

Here in Fairfax County, we have already seen the impact of photo speed enforcement. Since launching our pilot program in 2023, we’ve expanded from 10 to over 20 cameras in school zones and a work zone, with the goal of improving safety for all road users. At initial locations, vehicle speeds dropped by 15 percent, demonstrating that these tools can effectively change driver behavior. We believe similar results could be achieved on the Parkway—because getting drivers to slow down saves lives, prevents crashes, and protects everyone on the road.

Supporting safer roads: This bill is a practical, safety-focused solution that helps protect drivers while also reinvesting in our national parks. It reflects a shared commitment to making our transportation corridors safer for everyone who relies on them every day.

For more information and to watch the full hearing, visit the link below at time stamp: 1:07:04

Click to watch the committee meeting on YouTube.

What is Scam Jam and why should I care? Fairfax County is hosting Scam Jam, an educational event designed to help older adults and their families learn how to recognize, avoid, and report scams. Scams are increasingly sophisticated and can target people of all ages, but older adults are often especially vulnerable to financial fraud. Scam Jam provides practical tools and trusted information to keep you and your loved ones safe.

What will Scam Jam cover? At Scam Jam, participants will learn how to:

• Identify common scams such as phone, email, and investment fraud

• Understand the tactics scammers use to trick people

• Get tips and strategies to protect personal information

• Know where to report suspected scams and get support

Experts in fraud prevention will share real‑world examples and helpful advice so you can walk away feeling more confident in spotting scams before they cause harm.

Who should attend? Scam Jam is especially valuable for:

• Older adults looking to protect their financial security

• Family members and caregivers

• Anyone who wants to learn more about staying safe from scams

This event is free, informative, and focused on empowering residents with information that can prevent financial loss and emotional stress.

For more information and event details, visit: Scam Jam – Avoiding Modern Romance & Cryptocurrency Scams | Family Services

Check out the 9th annual Scam Jam!

What’s happening with ALU zoning in Fairfax County? County staff are hosting virtual community meetings to provide updates on the Accessory Living Units (ALU) zoning ordinance amendment, which considers potential updates to zoning rules for basement apartments, in-law suites, and other accessory living spaces. These meetings are an opportunity for residents to learn more, ask questions, and share their feedback.

What will be discussed?

• A summary of the recent community survey

• Setback requirements and other zoning considerations

• Updates on state legislation affecting ALUs

• Next steps for the ordinance amendment project

Residents’ input is important as the county evaluates ways to balance housing options, neighborhood character, and state requirements.

How can I participate? Two virtual meetings are scheduled:

Thursday, April 23, 2026 | 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Virtual Meeting via MS Teams | Call In: 571-429-5982 | Conference ID: 349 698 93#

Friday, April 24, 2026 | 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Virtual Meeting via MS Teams | Call In: 571-429-5982 | Conference ID: 734 344 00#

For more information, visit: Accessory Living Units – Proposed Zoning Ordinance Amendment | Planning Development