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Thursday, February 20, 2025 | | | | |
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Good afternoon!
I hope you’re having a great week! Our team had the incredible opportunity to engage with the award-winning Annandale High School Orchestra, a program that showcases the immense talent and dedication of our students. Music and arts education play a vital role in fostering creativity, discipline, and teamwork, and the success of this program is a testament to the hard work of both students and educators. Ensuring continued investment in arts education is essential for enriching our schools and community.
This week, we’re also sharing updates on the FY26 budget, resources for federal workers during this uncertain time, and programs and services available throughout Mason District to keep you informed and engaged.
As always, if there’s anything my office can assist you with, please don’t hesitate to reach out by calling 703-256-7717 or emailing Mason@fairfaxcounty.gov.
Thank you for staying connected, and I look forward to continuing to serve and support our vibrant community.
Sincerely,
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Andres Jimenez
Mason District Supervisor
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🎶 Celebrating Annandale High School’s Award-Winning Orchestra
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I had the privilege of visiting Annandale High School alongside Congressman Don Beyer, Mason District School Board Member Ricardy Anderson, and Fairfax County School Board Member At-Large Ilryong Moon to celebrate the remarkable achievements of its students and educators. It was truly inspiring to witness AHS’s award-winning Orchestra program, recently honored with the 2024 GRAMMY Music Educator Award, in action. The talent, dedication, and passion of these students highlight the incredible impact of music education in our schools.
Beyond the music, Annandale High School’s diverse and student-centered approach continues to create an enriching environment for its community, representing 66 countries and 59 languages. A huge thank you to Annie Ray for the invitation and for making this special event possible. Moments like these reinforce the power of education, creativity, and community in shaping a brighter future for our students. 🎻👏
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📢 Fairfax County’s FY26 Budget Proposal & Opportunities for Public Input
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On Tuesday, February 18, the Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) Advertised Budget was presented to the Board of Supervisors (BOS). This is the first step in the budget process, and nothing has been decided or voted on. Residents are encouraged to review the proposed budget and share their input. You can view the proposed budget here and find ways to provide input here.
📅 Key Budget Engagement Opportunities
🗣️ Mason District Budget Town Hall
📆 Wednesday, March 26 at 6:00 PM (Virtual)
- This year, the town hall will be livestreamed, and residents can call in or submit questions online.
- More details will be shared in upcoming newsletters and on social media.
📝 Public Comment at the Board of Supervisors Hearings
📆 Tuesday, April 22 at 4:00 PM
📆 Wednesday, April 23 at 3:00 PM
📆 Thursday, April 24 at 3:00 PM
💰 Budget Highlights
- Real Estate Tax Rate: Proposed 1.5-cent increase (to $1.14 per $100 of assessed value) in the real estate tax base.
- Public Safety: Fully funds collective bargaining agreements for Firefighters & Police Officers.
- Transient Occupancy Tax: 2% increase on short-term lodging, including hotels, motels, and rentals under 30 consecutive days.
- Agency Reductions: Identifies $60 million in reductions, including 208 position eliminations.
- Total County Spending Cuts: $100 million in reductions since FY24
🏫 Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) Budget Request
- Requested Increase: $268.26 million (10.4%) over last year’s budget transfer.
- Proposed Funding: $118.64 million of the request is funded in the proposed budget.
- Key FCPS Funding requests:
- 7% employee compensation increase
- $23.2 million in additional state revenue
- $20 million for student demographic & enrollment adjustments.
📢 Stay Involved!
I encourage Mason District residents to participate in the budget town hall, public hearings, and engagement opportunities in the coming months. The budget timeline including key dates can be found here. Your feedback is essential as we work toward balancing the budget. Stay informed and engaged—I look forward to hearing from you!
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📢 Job Opportunities & Resources for Federal Workers | |
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Fairfax County is home to tens of thousands of federal employees and contractors facing uncertainty due to deep federal budget cuts. Retaining these skilled professionals is critical, not just for Fairfax County’s economy but for Virginia’s economic future. Northern Virginia currently has over 90,000 job openings, nearly half located right here in Fairfax County.
The Fairfax County Economic Development Authority (FCEDA) has launched a new initiative to connect former federal employees and contractors with local career opportunities, partnering with labor unions and trade organizations to fill jobs in fields like trades, engineering, HR, project management, and more. Join us at the All Jobs Expo on May 10, featuring positions for tradesmen, accountants, engineers, HR professionals, and administrative staff. Explore other job opportunities and resources at Work in Northern Virginia. By ensuring these talented professionals find new opportunities, we strengthen Fairfax County’s economic resilience and maintain our role as the economic engine of the Commonwealth.
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Land Development Services | |
Leaf collection schedule updated
The Fairfax County Solid Waste Management Program updated its timeline for leaf collection services. Residents may receive the information by mail that includes collection timelines broken down by area, leaf management tips, and set out instructions. Mason District falls into multiple collection areas. Learn more.
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Public Input Sought for Proposed Pickleball Court at Mason District Park
The Fairfax County Park Authority is seeking community feedback on a proposed pickleball court at Mason District Park as part of its ongoing efforts to expand recreational opportunities.
The proposal includes the construction of a dedicated pickleball court next to the existing tennis courts in the southwestern corner of the park. The court would be located at least 250 feet from the nearest home, and existing tennis court lighting would be modified to illuminate the new court. The project would also require modifications to an existing trail and relocation of utility lines.
Community members are encouraged to share their thoughts on the proposal. Public comments will be accepted until 5 p.m. on Friday, March 13, 2025.
How to Submit Comments:
For more details or inquiries, contact Project Manager Kelly Davis at kelly.davis@fairfaxcounty.gov
Your input is invaluable in shaping the future of recreational facilities in our community!
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Stay Warm This Winter with Crisis Assistance
The Crisis Assistance Program helps households facing energy emergencies, such as losing heat or having no heat, by providing assistance with utility bill payments, heating fuel purchases, security deposits, and heating equipment repairs or replacements (for homeowners). To learn more and apply, visit Need Help with Heat? Don’t Be Left Out in the Cold. Stay safe and warm - help is available!
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2025 Business Tax License Workshops
The Department of Tax Administration (DTA) will host a 2025 Business Tax License (BPOL) Workshop to assist business owners with their online renewal applications on February 26, 2025, from 4:00 – 5:30 PM at the Mason District Government Center (6507 Columbia Pike, Annandale). For timely assistance, sign up at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/taxes/business or call 703-222-8234, option 4. Don’t miss this opportunity for expert guidance on your BPOL renewal!
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Your voice matters! Make sure your opinion is heard regarding the honorary naming of Little River Turnpike. Complete the online community survey by February 28.
Prefer a paper ballot?
Pick-up and drop-off is available Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM, at the Mason District Office. To schedule a time, please call or email mason@fairfaxcounty.gov. Our transportation staff must be present to provide ballots. (Note: Scanned ballots will not be accepted.)
For questions or more information, contact mason@fairfaxcounty.gov. Let’s honor and celebrate our community’s rich diversity together!
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Hypothermia Prevention Program begins next month
Fairfax County's Hypothermia Prevention Program accommodates adults in need of immediate shelter during the winter months. Folks can receive warm shelter, food, and other support services to connect them with clothes, employment, housing, and more. The program begins on December 1 and runs through March 31, 2025 at various locations across Fairfax County. Services also are available for adults with children.
If you see someone who is unsheltered and you think that they are at risk of hypothermia, call the Fairfax County Police Department's non-emergency number at 703-691-2131. A police officer will respond and conduct a wellness check. Learn more.
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Mason District is served by multiple stations of Fairfax County Police Department that include Mason, Franconia, McLean, and West Springfield. We encourage you to sign up for your station's newsletter! | | | | |
Community Drives and Programs | |
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📚 George Mason Friends Semi-Annual Book Sale (April 23–27)
George Mason Friends will host their highly anticipated, semi-annual book sale from Wednesday, April 23 through Sunday, April 27 at the George Mason Regional Library (7001 Little River Turnpike, Annandale).
A special preview sale will take place on Wednesday evening (5–8 PM) with a $20 entry fee per adult.
The general sale runs from Thursday through Sunday (10 AM–5:30 PM daily) with free entry.
The sale features high-quality used books, CDs, and DVDs in various categories. Proceeds support Fairfax County Public Library’s Summer Reading Program, Library Foundation scholarships, Fall for the Book Festival, and programs/equipment at George Mason Regional Library. Come early for the best selection and return on Sunday for half-price bargains! More details at georgemasonfriends.blogspot.com or contact georgemasonfriends@gmail.com / 703-813-6616.
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🔐 Keeping Safe Online: Free Virtual Forum on March 5
Join the Lifetime Learning Institute of Northern Virginia (LLI) for a free virtual forum on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, featuring cybersecurity expert Dr. Richard Forno from the University of Maryland, Baltimore Campus. Dr. Forno will discuss best practices for staying safe online and the broader impact of technology on security and society. This event is free and open to the public—register at www.llinova.org under Classes and Events to receive the Zoom link. Part of LLI’s monthly Forum Series, this session is one of many opportunities to engage in 130+ classes, programs, and excursions offered each year. For more information, email admin@llinova.org. Stay informed and protect yourself online—register today!
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🎭 Family-Friendly Performances & Summer Camps! 🎭
Join us for exciting live performances and immersive summer camps perfect for young theater enthusiasts! From March 15–23, catch Treasure Island, a thrilling high-seas adventure, and Orlando, a captivating journey through time and identity. Summer opportunities include Day Camps at Tysons Corner Center (Grades 2-5) and Sleepaway Camps at Christchurch Boarding School in Virginia’s Northern Neck (Grades 4-12). Whether your child wants to explore the stage, build confidence, or develop new skills, these programs offer something for everyone. Learn more and secure your spot today at Traveling Players!
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Free AARP Tax Assistance at Mason District Governmental Center
AARP Tax-Aide volunteers is providing free tax preparation services at the Mason District Governmental Center (6507 Columbia Pike, Annandale, VA) for clients of all ages. Walk-ins are welcome, and most returns are completed in one visit. Limited appointments are available starting January 20 by calling (703) 249-9961 at least two days in advance. Clients are encouraged to complete a Tax Preparation Intake Packet before arrival, available for pickup at the center or online at novataxaide.org/sites/Mason. Bring all tax documents, a government-issued photo ID, Social Security cards for everyone listed, and last year’s return (if available).
Hours: Mondays & Thursdays (1–8 PM), Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Fridays (9:30 AM–1 PM), and Saturdays (9 AM–1 PM).
Deadlines: Federal returns due April 15, Virginia state returns due May 1. Take advantage of this free, professional tax assistance!
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Urgent Need for Type O Blood Donors
Inova is facing a critical shortage of Type O blood due to multiple traumatic incidents and medical emergencies. While all blood types are needed, Type O is especially urgent to help patients in critical need.
Make a life-saving difference today by scheduling an appointment. Call 1-866-BLOODSAVES (1-866-256-6372) or visit inovablood.org.
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Donate laundry pods for local families
Help Sup. Andres Jimenez collect laundry detergent pods for Shelter House's Patrick Henry Emergency Shelter families with children. Drop off laundry detergent pods at the 24/7 lobby drop box at the Mason Governmental Center (6507 Columbia Pike, Annandale, VA 22003) or use link below to donate directly via the shelter's Amazon wish list.
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Volunteer appointment drivers needed for Annandale/Springfield
The joint Annandale Christian Community for Action (ACCA) and Shepherd's Center of Annandale Springfield transportation program is in desperate need of drivers to assist residents who cannot drive themselves to medical appointments, the grocery store, or to food banks. Learn more by calling the Shepherd's Center office at 703-941-1419 or emailing shepherdscas@vacosmail.com.
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Storage space needed for furniture program
The ACCA Furniture Program needs storage space for the gently used donated furniture that is picked up and then delivered to our neighbors. If you have storage space available, please email furniture@accacares.org.
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