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It was wonderful to see so many residents at the National Night Out (NNO) events TEAM MVD and I visited throughout the District! Bringing residents, police officers, fire and rescue personnel and others together in our neighborhoods promotes awareness, communications, trust and friendships that make our community stronger. Thank you to everyone who coordinated events in your neighborhood!
I was pleased to introduce many of you to our new Mount Vernon District Police Captain Marc Mitchell at NNO. Captain Mitchell is a 16-year veteran of the Fairfax County Police Department, with extensive experience in patrol operations having worked at six out of the eight districts. He was a founding member of the Fairfax County Communities of Trust which has worked tirelessly to build trust between law enforcement and the community.
August also means summer is ending and kids are headed back to school. As our teachers, administrators and staff get ready to welcome students back, there are some exciting happenings. For the first time ever, we are funding sports programs in middle schools. Look for these new programs at your local school! We are also funding permanent bathroom facilities for all high school sports stadiums that do not already have them, including Mount Vernon, West Potomac, Hayfield and Edison. Big thanks to Mount Vernon District School Board Member Karen Corbett Sanders for all her leadership and advocacy in getting these improvements for our students and community.
Also new this year, TEAM MVD is hosting our first Back-to-School Community Day on August 19 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Lorton Community Center. Featuring a moon bounce, face painting, free food, free backpacks and school supplies, a health fair, hearing and vision checks, the Lorton Volunteer Fire Department and Franconia Police Station, we welcome all students and families to join us to celebrate the start of the new school year! Learn more.
The end of summer also brings the Tour de Mount Vernon and this year’s ride will be like no other! We are closing the George Washington Parkway from the George Washington’s Mount Vernon to the City of Alexandria to give riders the unique experience of riding along this historic parkway with beautiful vistas of the Potomac River. From there, riders continue through the northern part of the District, taking in neighborhoods like Hollin Hills and Gum Springs, the Woodlawn Pope-Leighey House, Fort Belvoir and more! The ride concludes with lunch, music, beverages and yard games at the Estate. This year, we would also like to add a 5–10-mile family ride, but we need someone to lead this effort. If you or someone you know would like to help us organize this exciting new opportunity for children and families, please contact us at mtvernon@fairfaxcounty.gov. Register to ride today to get the Early Bird discount and be guaranteed ride socks (ends September 1)!
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Introducing Mount Vernon District Police Captain Marc Mitchell | |
In this Newsletter:
Lorton Lidl Grand Opening
LH Community Gardens
National Night Out
Upcoming Events
Land Use
Health, Housing & Human Services
Transportation
Public Safety
Parks & Environment
In the News
Community Information
Supporting Our Students
Pet Adoption Corner
Important Safety Information
Team MVD
Boards, Authorities, Commissions
| I was very pleased to join the Gum Springs community in celebrating Annie Harper’s life with a new historic marker on July 22. | |
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August also brings a change to my public schedule. Due to several community and personal commitments, I will not be available for my regular 2nd Saturday office hours on August 12. If you have topics you would like to discuss with me, email me at mtvernon@fairfaxcounty.gov and I will either respond directly to your question, or set up a meeting.
Enjoy these last few weeks of summer!
Respectfully yours in public service,
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Dan Storck
Supervisor, Mount Vernon District
Fairfax County Board of Supervisors
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Celebrating Our Community | |
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Lorton Lidl Grand Opening
On July 26, Lidl in Lorton officially opened their doors to the public. Thank you to the community for welcoming our new grocery store in Liberty Market (9001 White Spruce Way) and showing them we are Lorton Proud! Go check out the new store.
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Laurel Hill Community Gardens
July 19 was a beautiful summer morning for the ribbon cutting of the Laurel Hill Community Gardens! Located at 9105 Hooes Road in Lorton, these plots provide an opportunity for those without garden space, to grow their own produce. With the addition of these 19 garden plots, the Park Authority now administers 721 community gardens. Thank you to the Fairfax County Park Authority, Wes Speer, Linwood Gorham, South County Federation, Lorton Community Action Center (LCAC) and others for your support of this project. I look forward to watching the gardens continue to grow and thrive! Watch the Channel 16 video.
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National Night Out
National Night Out 2023 was a SUCCESS! Team MVD was able to visit more than 20 locations and we had a great time getting to meet with so many communities in the District! Thank you to all the neighborhoods, officers and firemen that participated and for putting together wonderful and welcoming events.
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Para subscribirse para nuestro boletín en español o si conoce a alguien quien quiera subscribirse, o para hablar con un hispanohablante, comuníquese con Madeleine Carcamo Reyes a su preferencia, por teléfono al (703) 780-7518 o por correo electrónico: Madeleine.CarcamoReyes@fairfaxcounty.gov.
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Adult Protective Services
(703) 324-7450, TTY 703-449-1186
Aging, Disability & Caregiver Resource Line
(703) 324-7948, TTY 711
Child Protective Services (24/7)
(703) 324-7400, TTY 703-222-9452
Domestic & Sexual Violence (24/7)
(703) 360-7273, TTY 711
Emergency & Basic Needs
(703) 222-0880, TTY 711
Emergency Mental Health (24/7)
(703) 573-5679, TTY 711
Fairfax County Emergency Information Line
(703) 817-7771, TTY 711
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Fire Code-Related Questions
(703) 246-4849, TTY 711
Fraud Hotline
(703) 787-3243
Police Non-Emergency Line
(703) 691-2131
Roads: VDOT (Virginia Department of Transportation)
1 (800) FOR-ROAD or 1 (800) 367-7623, TTY 711
Suicide Prevention (24/7)
Call: (703) 527-4077
Text: "CONNECT" to 85511
Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board 24/7 Lines
Emergency Services: (703) 573-5679
Fairfax Detoxification Center: (703) 502-7000
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Upcoming In-Person & Virtual Events
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Penn Daw Fire Station, Emergency and Supportive Housing
Thank you to the 100+ residents who joined us for the July 27 Community Meeting to learn about and provide input on the proposed concept designs for the co-located project. If you were unable to join us, the meeting presentation is available online for your review. Feedback can be sent to penndawproject@fairfaxcounty.gov. To learn more about the project and to sign up to get project updates, visit.
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Capital Project Quarterly Update
Want to know more about County Construction Projects near you? The Department of Public Works and Environmental Services (DPWES) Capital Project Summary Report has been updated through June 2023 and can be accessed here. This updated quarterly report provides a status summary for capital projects in the County.
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Upcoming Community Meetings on Proposed Outdoor Dining Regulations
Are you interested in learning more about the County's proposed outdoor dining regulations? Join County staff at upcoming virtual community meetings to learn more. Agenda items include an overview of the proposed regulations, along with discussion and time for questions and comments to be addressed. A cover memo and draft text have been released and are available for public review. Learn more.
Virtual Community Meetings
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Health, Housing & Human Services | |
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Join the Food Bank's Client Leadership Council (CLC)
Share your story, advocate for your community and get paid for your time. A ten-month paid advocacy training program that brings together people from across the region who are currently experiencing food insecurity. The goal of the CLC is to empower individuals to shape policy, inform the media and influence food bank programming by sharing their lived experiences. You will be compensated for your time at a rate of $30/hr. The time commitment will be at least 5 hours a month. The CLC is accepting nominations and applications until September 1. The class will run from late September 2023 to June 2024. To learn more email Sibyl Brown at sbrown@capitalareafoodbank.org.
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George Washington Memorial Parkway South Section and Mount Vernon Trail Improvements Plan
The National Park Service (NPS) is developing a George Washington Memorial Parkway South Section and Mount Vernon Trail Improvements Plan to guide future actions to improve the roadway and trail while maintaining the scenic and historic character of the George Washington Memorial Parkway. As part of this process, the NPS has assessed potential effects to cultural resources, which are discussed in an Assessment of Effects (AOE) Report. The AOE Report is complete, available to view and for public comment. The public comment period runs until September 30.
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Metro Capacity & Reliability Study
WMATA’s Blue/Orange/Silver Corridor Capacity & Reliability study is moving forward after more than two years of in-depth data analysis and community input. Metro has launched a website where the public can learn about proposed alternatives and provide feedback on this important study. Alternative 4 proposes a Blue Line loop that would enhance service in our District. The public can help decide which alternative is best for the region by providing input by September 30. Here’s how people can get involved:
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2023 Summer Crime Prevention Initiative
This summer, the FCPD launched a coordinated effort to reduce crime through strategic prevention and focused enforcement throughout the County with the 2023 Summer Crime Prevention Initiative. To kick off the month of August, the Initiative will tackle vehicle-related thefts throughout the County with the education and empowerment of community members to safeguard their property while ensuring the criminals responsible are brought to justice. The Summer Crime Prevention team will intensify its efforts to prevent theft from vehicles and vehicle parts by implementing strategic and focused enforcement measures. 10 Ways to Prevent Auto Theft.
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Rideshare Safety Tips
Rideshare services offer convenience and accessibility for our residents and visitors. FCPD is reminding community members of ways they can prioritize their safety when using these services. Learn more.
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FCPD Share the Many Ways to Keep in Touch
We hear many questions about where to find and sign up for public safety and police information. FCPD has put out a helpful flyer. Learn more.
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Tree of Heaven and Spotted Lanternfly – Both Invasive Species
The County is asking for your help with two invasive species. The Tree-of-Heaven, Ailanthus altissima, tree matures rapidly, spreads aggressively and is particularly damaging to our ecosystem because it poisons the soil around its roots, thereby preventing native trees and plants from growing nearby. This tree is also a preferred food source for the invasive Spotted Lanternfly!
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What can you do? If you find the tree on your property, please take steps to remove it. It will only grow back if you simply cut it down, so be sure to kill it by destroying the root system. Learn more about the safe and effective removal of this invasive on the Plant NOVA Trees' website.
The Spotted Lanternfly (SLF) has no natural enemies in the U.S. and damages native trees, plants and crops. Identification information with links to the quarantine area can be found on the County's website. Keep an eye out for spotted lanternfly in Fairfax and report sightings with photos and address to ReportSLF@fairfaxcounty.gov or to (703) 324-5304. The popular mobile app, iNaturalist, is an effective and efficient method for reporting a SLF sighting.
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A Small Patch of Dirt Can Yield Big Growth
I was incredibly pleased to open our new Laurel Hill Community Gardens in Lorton. Not only do community gardens give residents without much yard space the opportunity to grow their own fresh food, but they often help us address health and food insecurity. “Give a man a vegetable, and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to grow vegetables, and you feed him for a lifetime.” OK, the saying is fish, but you get the idea. Small garden plots in urban areas can provide volumes of fresh food, including in areas considered food deserts. Read more in my Mount Vernon Gazette article.
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Sensational Spoonbills
Two pink roseate spoonbills caused quite the sensation among their human observers the week of July 10. On July 12, Joan Mashburn photographed two that she believes were displaying courtship behavior in Hunting Creek, although they are likely too young to breed, she clarifies. Recently, spoonbills have been reported in a few other areas, including Washington, D.C.’s Kenilworth Gardens, but unlike 2021, when throngs of people flocked to Huntley Meadows Park to see them, there have been no reports of them there this year so far. Read more in the Mount Vernon Gazette.
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Annie Harper, The Hidden Gem of Gum Springs
On July 22, the public witnessed a rare and wonderful event taking place on Fordson Road, the unveiling of the Annie E. Harper Virginia historical highway marker in Gum Springs. It was followed by a reception at Bethlehem Baptist Church, with special exhibits and a community celebration. The event was the culmination of a lot of hard work by a number of community members including the leadership of the indefatigable Queenie Cox, who acted as the MC, and was joined on the planning committee by Brenda Faison, who spearheaded the project, with Martha Coleman, David Carter, Carla Dobson, Ada Johnson, Brenda Page-Murphy, Cassandra McClerkin, Gerald Peteet, Connie Royal and John Spears. Read more in the Mount Vernon Gazette.
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2023 Digital Counties Survey - Fairfax County Ranked #1
Fairfax County has been named this year’s No. 1 jurisdiction in the Digital Counties Survey’s One Million or More Population category. Fairfax County received this honor by redefining the boundaries of tech advancements with agile adoption of new tools, commitment to digital equity and digitization of critical processes. The Digital Counties Survey Awards provides an annual measure of technology performance and innovation conducted through an in-depth review of the programs and initiatives created and implemented by counties across the nation. The awards recognize best practices in the areas of open government, transparency, strategic planning, public engagement, shared services, cybersecurity and operations. Fairfax County has often been ranked in the top ten as a technical innovator over the last 20 years, in the top five for 10 consecutive years and earning first place four times. Learn more.
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Combatting Fentanyl through Awareness and Community Resources
The Fairfax County Police Department (FCPD) and the Fairfax County Opioid and Substance Use Task Force have been working diligently to combat the problem of fentanyl in Fairfax County. FCPD works collaboratively with the Fairfax County Opioid and Substance Use Task Force to bring awareness to the fentanyl issue and deter drug use in our communities. To effectively safeguard our families and protect our children, it is essential for every community member to learn about fentanyl and share vital safety information with their loved ones about this potent drug. Learn more.
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Seeking Spanish Speakers to Volunteer with Children in Our Community!
Volunteer and Partner Services is currently recruiting bilingual volunteers to support our Body Safety Program and our BeFriend-A-Child Mentoring Program. If you can speak Spanish and English, you are a great candidate to help us make a difference in our community! Learn more.
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Volunteer & Partner Services Needs Your Help
The Fairfax County Department of Family Services Volunteer and Partner Services needs your help to support the families DFS serves. Please review the SignUpGenius. Currently DFS is in desperate need of short-term grocery assistance to support the families in our community. If you would like to purchase gift cards to local grocery stores, DFS asks that you please deliver them in person. Learn more.
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Women Going the Extra Mile
Monday, August 7, 10 a.m.
Turning Point Suffragist Memorial, 9751 Ox Road
“Women Going the Extra Mile” is a 133-mile trek from Alexandria to Richmond to raise awareness for many of the issues women face. The trek is led by Alexandria Celebrates Women (ACW) Vice President Gayle Converse and the group is stopping at the Turning Point Suffragist Memorial as a primary “send-off site” for the group. The journey will end on Saturday, August 26 -- Women’s Equality Day -- at the Virginia Women’s Monument on Capital Square in Richmond. AWC is a non-profit that raises funds for the Domestic Violence Safehouse.
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Putting for Pets Golf Tournament Registration Open Now
Monday, September 18
Chantilly National Golf and Country Club, 14901 Braddock Rd.
Join the Friends' for the annual Putting for Pets Golf Tournament, benefiting homeless pets at the Fairfax County Animal Shelter. Singles or groups of fewer than four players are always welcome and will be paired with other players for an enjoyable round. To keep the pace, there is a single bogie stroke limit on each hole, therefore the max score on any hole is one over par. Register here.
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Request a Mason Speaker for Your Next Event
Need an expert to deliver a presentation to your community organization or business? Check out Mason Speakers, a speaking bureau featuring nearly 100 George Mason University professors, researchers and administrators. Mason Speakers provide lectures and guest presentations to community organizations and businesses free of charge on a variety of topics. Learn more.
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Back-to-School Supply Donations
The countdown is on for the start of the 2023-24 school year in Fairfax County! Fairfax County Public School’s first day is August 21 which means the hunt for school supplies has begun. However, there are students and families in need that could use our assistance. Below I have listed a few organizations that will be handing out a range of supplies from backpacks to writing utensils. If you have the means, I encourage you to donate!
Cornerstones
Cornerstones is collecting new backpacks for students in all grades with an emphasis on high school students. Donations will be collected at Cornerstones’ main office through Friday, August 4, 9 a.m. - 4:45 p.m. You can also donate online through their Amazon wish list or make a cash donation. Learn more.
Lorton Community Action Center
This upcoming Sunday, August 6, from 11 a.m. - 1:00 p.m., LCAC will be collecting backpacks and supplies for students. Sign up to donate specific items. Please drop off any donations at the Lorton Community Center. They will organize the backpacks and supplies, then distribute them to LCAC clients the following weekend. Questions about what to donate or how to organize a drive so that you can team up with your friends or neighbors to donate more? Contact Christen@lortonaction.org.
United Community
United Community has a goal of supplying 900 children with backpacks and school supplies. They need your help to ensure our local children return to school prepared and well equipped. They are accepting donations of Target and Walmart gift cards, backpacks, pocket folders, notebooks and pencil boxes through August 18. Learn more.
FCPS Homeless Liaison Office
Gift cards are being requested by the Homeless Liaison Office to create gift bags for students who experience homelessness. Gift cards from grocery stores, Target, Walmart or other large department stores are suggested. Cards (with amounts written on the back) can be sent to the Homeless Liaison Office, Gatehouse Administration Center. Learn more.
Department of Family Services
The Fairfax County Department of Family Services Volunteer and Partner Services needs your support with donations to help support the families they serve. The items needed vary from car seats, diapers, booster seats and highchairs to grocery store gift cards. Learn more.
FACETS
FACETS is collecting backpacks and other school supplies. Their most needed items are Target and Walmart gift cards, backpacks and white boards. Donations can be dropped off at FACETS main office weekdays, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. or you can use the Amazon wish list to donate. Learn more.
Thank you for supporting our neighbors in need!
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Is Your Child Registered Yet?
If you are new to FCPS and have not registered your child for school yet, please do so as soon as possible. Schools are planning playdates, screenings, teacher visits and back-to-school nights for students to get to know their teachers and each other. Register soon to make sure you don’t miss out!
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Connect with County Leaders Podcast: Making Fairfax County Public Schools a Beacon of Excellence
On the August episode of the “Connect with County Leaders” Podcast, Fairfax County Executive Bryan Hill is joined by Dr. Michelle Reid, Superintendent of Fairfax County Public Schools. Reid brings an exciting new perspective to Fairfax County. And while only on the job a year, she has already visited most of the 198 schools in the County. As she puts it, “You can’t lead people you don’t know or programs you don’t understand.” Listen to the podcast.
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1,000 Books Before Kindergarten
Help your child get ready to succeed in school by reading 1,000 books with them before kindergarten! Each book you read counts, including every reread favorite and book you hear in storytime! Studies have shown that families who start reading aloud to their children at birth help strengthen their language skills and build their vocabulary. Learn more.
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Scholarships Awarded to Affordable Housing Residents
The Fairfax County Redevelopment and Housing Authority (FCRHA) awarded 10 affordable housing residents scholarships for post-secondary education. Recipients were recognized during the FCRHA’s meeting on July 20. The FCRHA established the scholarship program to promote higher learning among individuals and families receiving housing assistance. $50,000 in scholarships were awarded at $5,000 per recipient. Information about 2024 scholarship applications will be released next year. Learn more.
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Friends of Sherwood Library Book Sale
Saturday, August 5, 10 a.m.
Sherwood Regional Library, 2501 Sherwood Hall Ln.
Did you know there is a bookstore located inside the Sherwood Regional Library? The Bookstore is located on the first and second floors and offers thousands of books: most priced at just $1 with children’s books starting at just 25 cents! The 20,000 book and multimedia collection is comprised completely of community donated books and is open daily. Donations are always welcome! Each Wednesday new finds are featured and the first Saturday of the month special collections are highlighted. The sale will feature half priced childrens books. Learn more.
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Meet Violet
Violet is a 1 year old female, black and white Domestic Shorthair mix. Lady Violet just raised a very large family! Now that her kittens are weaned, she is ready for some peace and quiet. She is social, friendly and beautiful, too! Her previous family says she lived with other cats and enjoys being picked up, hugged and kissed. Are you looking for a regal lady to be your companion? Go meet Violet at the Fairfax County Animal Shelter!
Have you been thinking about adopting a pet? The Fairfax County Animal Shelter is under renovation and now is a great time to bring home your new best friend! If you'd like to meet Violet, or any of the adoptable pets at the Fairfax County Animal Shelter, visit during open hours! For more info on the adoption process, including requirements and fees, click here.
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Important Safety Information | |
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Code Compliance - Sign Removal from the Right-of-Way (ROW)
Are you seeing more signs along major roads, such as in medians and near sidewalks? If so, relief is coming. The County started its Illegal Sign Removal Program in 2013, under an agreement with the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT). DCC removes signs placed along roads for advertising, realtors, political campaigns and more. The program covers 99 roads, most of which are major routes, like Richmond Highway. Removal of signs from other roads doesn't happen as part of the program.
Due to staff shortages, sign removal stopped in Summer 2022. Fortunately, the County was successful in supporting a new Virginia law passed to allow contractors to remove signs from the roads in the program. It took effect July 1, 2023 and of mid-July, a contractor has begun removal of these signs. The Department of Code Compliance (DCC) continues to administer the program and issue fines to repeat violators.
Additional information is available in an informational flyer and on DCC’s website.
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Mount Vernon District Staff (top row left to right): Christine Morin, Cassidy Donaghy, Camela Speer, Maddie Carcamo Reyes (bottom row left to right) Peyton Smith, Volunteer Shirley Short, Nick Rinehart and Supervisor Dan Storck. | |
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Whether you need a free notary, a "Slow Down" yard sign, Mosquito Dunks or you would like to reserve meeting space in the Mount Vernon Governmental Center -- my office offers all this at no cost to you. Have road maintenance requests, zoning questions or environmental concerns? Stop by the Mount Vernon District Office anytime during our office hours, call or email us. We are here to help!
Stop by and visit the information tables outside my office for everything happening in the District. From flyers for upcoming events, bike route maps, newspapers and much more, this center is free and available 24/7!
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July 2023 Activities:
- Phone calls: 957
- Meetings: 251
Stay Connected:
Mount Vernon Governmental Center
2511 Parkers Lane
Mount Vernon, VA 22306
703-780-7518 (TTY 711) 703-780-1491 (fax)
mtvernon@fairfaxcounty.gov
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Office Hours
Monday - Wednesday, Friday:
8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Thursday: 8:30 a.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Second Saturday Each Month (Except August)
Lorton Library: 9 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
MV District Office: 12:30 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Walk-ins and by appointment
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Boards, Authorities and Commissions | |
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Help serve your community by serving on a Fairfax County Board, Authority or Commission (BAC). Please ask your friends, neighbors and community members if they are willing to help serve Fairfax County.
Criminal Justice Advisory Board
To receive and coordinate all phases of planning for the Criminal Justice System in the County of Fairfax and to furnish its advice and recommendations to the County Executive and, as appropriate, to the Board of Supervisors. Reestablished to continue in an advisory capacity though no longer required by Federal Law.
Board of Building and Fire Prevention Code Appeals (At-Large Members Needed)
Pursuant to County Code Section 61-2-1, to act on applications for appeals from Building Official, Fire Official or Property maintenance Code Official decisions based on the VUSBC, the VSFPC, the Virginia Amusement Device Regulations (VADR) and Chapters 61, 64, 65, and 66 of the County Code as specified.
There are several At-Large positions available as of August 2023 on County BACs.
- Affordable Dwelling Unit Advisory Board (Lending Institution Representative)
- Board of Building and Fire Prevention Code Appeals (Alternate & Design Professional)
- Board of Equalization of Real Estate (Professional)
- Consumer Protection Commission
- Engineering Standard Review Committee
- Health Systems Agency Board
- History Commission
- Police Civilian Review Panel
- Tenant-Landlord Commission (Citizen, Condo Owner, Landlord, Tenant
- Trespass Towing Advisory Board
- Uniformed Retirement System Board of Trustees
Learn more about any of these BACs...
Volunteering on these committees increases citizen participation in our District. If you are interested in serving on a county board, authority, commission, or committee (BAC), please provide a current résumé to mtvernon@fairfaxcounty.gov. For more information, please download the brochure for a brief guide to BACs, or learn more on the County website. You can also check out the County's Volunteer Management System for information on these and other volunteer opportunities near you.
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