This effort will span most of 2019, but in this first phase, we're asking you to:

• Take our short five-question online survey

• Consider joining a community conversation in person between Feb. 13 and March 6

• Share the survey and conversation invitation with neighbors, co-workers and county family and friends

As the strategic planning process unfolds, we will have:

• Defined a clear understanding of the county's priorities for 2020 and beyond, organized around a set of 7-10 priority areas that we will seek additional input on later this year

• Developed a set of community-centric, quantifiable, and meaningful key performance indicators for each outcome/priority area

• Prioritized strategies and implementation paths that will be pursued to achieve the outcomes and "move the needle" on the key performance indicators

• Integrated other important county planning efforts such as the economic success strategy, Fairfax County Public Schools strategic plan, One Fairfax and more

• Completed the strategic plan by January 2020 that will create a roadmap for Fairfax County to achieve the desired outcomes of the community

We invite you to become part of this effort to shape the future together. For more information, please visit fairfaxcounty.gov/strategicplan.

There are a few new critters joining the Fairfax County Zoning Ordinance's List of Commonly Accepted Pets. On January 22 nd , the Board of Supervisors authorized to allow chinchillas, hedgehogs and hermit crabs as pets in Fairfax County. Previously, chinchillas and hermit crabs could be kept by an individual in Fairfax County provided they obtained a special permit from the Board of Zoning Appeals. Hedgehogs were considered "wild or exotic" by the zoning ordinance and were not permitted.

 

Like other household pets, these animals require special care and attention. If you have an interest in adding any of these pets to your family, I recommend consulting a veterinarian and doing some additional research to make sure it's the right fit.

 

More information on which animals can be kept as pets and other regulations concerning pet care in Fairfax County can be found here: fairfaxcounty.gov/code/animals-and-pets.

While the weather lately has been up and down, during the past few weeks our region has experienced bitterly cold temperatures, and we're not even halfway through winter! This is a reminder that if it's too cold for you, your pet is likely cold as well. Regardless of breed, there are some temperatures that are too frigid for pets. Fur coats can increase some animals' tolerance of the cold, but both cats and dogs are susceptible to frostbite and hypothermia. Here are some ways to ensure that pets are kept comfortable and safe when extreme weather comes around:

Most importantly, if you suspect animal neglect or witness unsatisfactory conditions for pets, please speak out. Voice your concerns to the pet owner or alert the police/animal control at the non-emergency line at 703-691-2131.

The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program offers free tax preparation assistance to individuals and families who earned $55,000 or less in 2018. IRS trained and certified volunteers are available at 15 sites throughout Northern Virginia and will ensure you receive the maximum tax refund and help determine if you are eligible for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC).  Find a location near you. 

In addition, the AARP Foundation Tax-Aid Program offers free, individualized tax preparation for low to moderate income taxpayers, especially those 50 and older, at nearly 5,000 locations nationwide. AARP Membership is not required for this free service. Find a location near you.

 

Consumer Affairs is available Monday-Friday from 8:00 am - 4:30 pm and can be reached at 703-222-8435 (TTY 711) or at  [email protected] .