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March 2023

Neighbors,

March is Women’s History Month and there are many great places in the Mount Vernon District to celebrate women, including the Lucy Burns Museum, the Turning Point Suffragist Memorial and the 60th Annual Needlework Show and Sale at the Woodlawn & Pope-Leighey House. You can also join a virtual panel discussion on March 8 exploring American women's journey to earn the right to vote and learn about more opportunities at Visit Fairfax.


This is the beginning of budget season and I want to hear from you. Join me in-person or virtually on Wednesday, March 15 at 7 p.m. for the Mount Vernon District Budget Town Meeting to learn more about the County Executive’s proposed budget, ask questions and share your comments. More information on the proposed budget, the budget process and how to comment here. Read my current budget statement and learn more about these meetings, here.


I have heard from many of you about your real estate assessments. As you may know, real estate assessments are set by the market based on sales of similar homes in your area and not by the Board of Supervisors. Per the Constitution of Virginia, Fairfax County’s real estate assessments must reflect fair market value. For most residential property, that value is determined by comparing a property to sales of comparable properties in your area. That value is reflected in the assessment you recently received, with your estimated 2023 real estate tax levy, which is just that, an estimate, based on current tax rate of $1.11 per $100 of assessed value.

In this Newsletter:

Ides of Bark

Upcoming Events

Land Use

Health, Housing & Human Services

Transportation

Public Safety

Parks & Environment

In the News

Community Information

Pet Adoption Corner

Important Safety Information

Team MVD

Boards, Authorities, Commissions

Thank you Friends of Historic Huntley for a grand tour and presentation of the history behind the Federal-period villa.

As I did last year, I am strongly supporting a reduction in the real estate tax rate to better balance the increase in home valuations homeowners are seeing in their assessments. Join me on March 16 at 7 p.m. for a virtual meeting with the Department of Tax Administration (DTA) to discuss how assessments are done, as well as your options for appeal and tax relief. To talk to a County appraiser about your home’s assessment and to find out how to appeal, click here.


Recently, Karen Corbett Sanders announced she will not be seeking re-election for a third term for Mount Vernon School Board. I have greatly valued our partnership with Karen and her passion and compassion for our kids will certainly be missed in the Mount Vernon District. Read more below.


At the end of the month, join us at the Ides of Bark Dog Festival on Sunday, March 26 from 1 – 4 p.m. at Grist Mill Park. Bring your 4-legged friends for fun, music, games, treats and playtime!


Respectfully yours in public service,





Dan Storck 
Supervisor, Mount Vernon District
Fairfax County Board of Supervisors





Visit our Website

I was pleased to host our annual Wreath Laying at Mount Vernon Estate, joined by Karen Corbett Sanders, Charles Cuvelier, Michele Togbe, MVHS JROTC and local Girl Scouts. Thank you Stephen Keat for the photo.

You're Invited!

Quick Links
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.

Key Contacts

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

Fire Code-Related Questions

(703) 246-48491, 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

Upcoming In-Person & Virtual Events


Update from Mount Vernon School Board Member Karen Corbett Sanders


Karen Corbett Sanders recently announced she will not be seeking re-election for a third term for Mount Vernon School Board. I have greatly valued our partnership with Karen and her passion and compassion for our kids will certainly be missed in the Mount Vernon District. Since day one, Karen has fought for equity and inclusion for each and every student in the County, following her mantra – the zip code should not determine the quality of a child’s education. I know this was a difficult decision for her and I know she will not stop fighting for our kids, even if in a different capacity. Thank you, Karen for being a key part of Team MVD for the past seven years! Read Karen's full announcement.

Land Use

Customer and Staff Collaboration Lead to an Improved Planning and Land Use System


Since building and site-related permitting transitioned to PLUS in October 2022, Land Development Services (LDS) staff have sought feedback from customers regularly using the platform to improve it and make it more user friendly.


Upcoming PLUS Webinars:


You can also schedule a virtual appointment with staff to answer any questions or visit the customer service center. The Customer Experience Team is available Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m., and Friday, 9:15 a.m. - 4 p.m., at the Herrity Building, 12055 Government Center Parkway, Suite 324.

Workhouse Masterplan Community Survey


Did you miss the 2nd community meeting for the Workhouse Arts Campus Masterplan? No problem! You can review the presentation from the meeting. After reviewing, please take a few moments to take the survey and provide feedback on this important project. Learn more.

Health, Housing & Human Services

Changes to SNAP Benefits Begin in March


During the COVID-19 pandemic, the federal government passed a law to temporarily increase SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits to support families. The law has recently changed, and the benefits ended on February 16. Effective March 1, the SNAP benefits are back to normal without the added supplement. The Virginia Department of Social Services has created a temporary information line for questions: 1-855-635-4370. If you need food now, call Fairfax County Coordinated Services Planning at 703-222-0880. Learn more.

Women, Infants and Children Program Phone Number Change


On March 3, the Fairfax County Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program transitioned to one phone number: 703-246-5599. The centralized number will allow WIC to better serve clients and the community. Learn more.

Energy Assistance: Get Help with Heating or Cooling


Crisis Assistance: Available November 1 - March 15


Cooling Assistance: Available June 15 - August 15


Fuel Assistance: Available October - November


Learn more.

Transportation

Metro Invites Community to Attend Proposed FY24 Budget Public Hearings Starting Monday, March 6


Starting next week, customers and the general public have four opportunities to publicly provide feedback on Metro’s Fiscal Year (FY 24) 2024 budget proposal. All are invited to participate in-person, via video or via telephone. The community is also encouraged to take WMATA's survey, provide written comments and upload documents to their website by 5 p.m. Wednesday, March 15. Learn more.

Public Safety

Car Seat Saturday


Saturday, March 25, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

West Springfield District Station, 6140 Rolling Rd.


Stop by the station to get your car seat inspected with no appointment needed. Car seats will be inspected on a first come, first served basis. When you arrive, go to the lobby and you will be given further directions. Be sure to install the child safety seat yourself, so the inspection can be performed. The seat will be properly re-installed if necessary, and you will learn how to install the seat properly in the future. All car seat inspections/installations will be conducted by a certified Child Passenger Safety Technician. Reach out to MPO Tony Capizzi at Anthony.capizzi@fairfaxcounty.gov or 703-277-2363 with any questions. West Springfield District Station also has car seat inspections, by appointment, every Tuesday from 5 - 8 p.m. Call the station at 703-644-7377 and press zero to make an appointment on those days.  

Parks & Environment

Yard Waste


Curbside yard waste collection for County customers resumed as of March 1. Yard waste is collected and processed for recycling only during the period March 1 – December 24. Small quantities of yard waste can be tied in bundles weighing no more than 50 pounds (pieces should be no longer than 4 feet in length and 6 inches in diameter). More than 4 bundles of tied yard waste can be scheduled for a brush Special Pickup.


Special pickup requirements when using this option for more than 4 bundles

  1. The allowable amount is two cubic yards of material (6 feet length x 3 feet wide x 3 feet high). 
  2. Twenty feet of clearance is needed above and on all sides of the pile so that it can be collected safely. 
  3. Special collection material should not be placed under utility wires, low hanging tree branches, over manhole covers or in storm drains. 
  4. The set-out time is by 6:00 a.m. on the collection day.
  5. Brush means shrubs, tree limbs, under 6 inches in diameter/6 feet in length with no pieces weighing more than 50 pounds. (No lumber!)
  6. NOTE: It is important to note that this option for yard waste does not include leaves, grass, grass clippings, flowers, small clippings/trimmings and straw that cannot be bundled or serviced by a crane.

Green Business Partners Forum


The Fairfax County Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination, in partnership with the Fairfax County Department of Economic Initiatives and Smart City Works, is hosting a Fairfax County Green Business Partners Forum on Friday, March 31, 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. The goal of this Forum is to showcase energy- and climate-success stories and provide opportunities to network with green business leaders throughout the County. Email oeecgreenbusiness@fairfaxcounty.gov for questions about the event. Learn more and register.

Annual Native Seedling Sale


The Northern Virginia Soil and Water Conservation District is opening their native seedling sale on March 7 at 9 a.m. The sale features shrubs and trees that were selected for their value to wildlife throughout the year. Orders must be picked on March 31 or April 1. Learn more.

Tree Myth - Spring Mulching


Myth - "Trees need big piles of mulch." Or, perhaps we should call this The Myth of the Angry Volcano Gods, who are appeased by stuffing trees down their maws. It's hard to know how this harmful practice got started, but it's everywhere. Trees should be planted with the top of their roots level to the ground, just as in nature. Mulch should never be allowed to touch the trunk, as it causes bark rot. Shredded mulch can form a barrier to water when it mats down. Arborist wood chips are preferred – assuming mulch is needed at all – and no more than 2-4 inches deep. The Fairfax County Tree Basics booklet, shows proper tree planting and care practices.

In the News

Undergrounding Utilities Eyed for Richmond Highway


As spring season approaches, so does the project timeline for the expansion of Richmond Highway, so officials are looking at the possibility of putting the power lines underground as well. Virginia State Senator Scott Surovell included this change in the latest bill passed in Richmond. Mount Vernon Supervisor Dan Storck had a similar undergrounding message for his constituents on the County website. "The time to act for Mount Vernon’s main street is NOW. As such, I have shared with my Board colleagues several options to create a funding pool that could be used not only for Richmond Highway, but in future years, for additional areas throughout the County along our major roadways and revitalization areas." Read more from the Mount Vernon Gazette.

7News Interview with Fairfax County Police Chief Kevin Davis


7News regularly checks in with local law enforcement leaders to find out more about what they and their department are doing on a host of issues. On February 21, 7News anchor Alison Starling interviewed Fairfax County Police Chief Kevin Davis. Watch the interview.

Community Information

2nd Annual Patriot Shredding Truck Event


Saturday, March 11, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Parking lot of 5001 Eisenhower Avenue, Alexandria


Bring up to five, 20 lb. boxes of papers to be destroyed. All shredded paper is recycled. No need to remove staples or paperclips, but no 3-ring binders. Help give back by bringing a few gently used or new bath towels to support New Hope Housing, a 501(c)3 that works to eliminate homelessness in our community. Learn more.

Feedback Sought on African American Historic Resources Survey Draft Report


Fairfax County is working to better capture, communicate and preserve the history of African Americans in the County. As part of this effort, 70 properties with historical, cultural, architectural or archaeological significance were surveyed through a Virginia Department of Historic Resources’ (VDHR) program. The results are now available in a draft report.


Review the report, submit comments online and join a virtual meeting to learn more on Monday, March 6 at 6:30 p.m. Public comments on the draft report must be submitted by midnight on Friday, March 24, in order to be reviewed and considered before the report is complete. The final survey report is expected to be published in late spring 2023.

Angels on the Battlefield: Women in the Civil War


Saturday, March 25, 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Starting and Ending at the National Museum of the U.S. Army


Registration is now open for the Spring Battle Ride, “Angels of the Battlefield”: Women in the Civil War. Join The Army Historical Foundation to walk the grounds of battlefields and explore area museums on a full day outing packed with military history and unique Civil War destinations. The Battle Ride begins and ends at the National Museum of the United States Army and includes transportation, snacks, drinks, lunch, entrance fees, guided tours and a souvenir printed program. Register and learn more.

ConnerStrong Foundation You're Not Alone 5k Fun Run


Saturday, March 25, 7:30 a.m.

Kingstowne Shopping Center


This event is tailored as a community outreach event, bringing together local community-based resources focused on wellness, mental health and suicide prevention. The goal of this event is to raise awareness of the resources available in our community to support the lack of food and clothing that impacts many families and individuals in Fairfax County. Several community-based resources and organizations who provide various wellness, mental health and suicide prevention goods and services will be on hand. All non-perishable food and money raised from the event will help two local community food banks - Koinonia and United Community.

Learn the Warning Signs of a Heart Attack


Unfortunately, heart attacks do happen. It is important that you and your loved ones know and recognize the warning signs of a heart attack as every second counts! Please take a moment to review the below tips from the American Heart Association. Learn more.


  • Chest discomfort. Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes, or that goes away and comes back.
  • Discomfort in other areas of the upper body. Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.
  • Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort.
  • Other signs may include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness.

Make a Positive Impact Through Volunteering


Volunteer Solutions offers meaningful volunteer opportunities to provide support to older adults, adults with disabilities and family caregivers. It’s a partnership between Fairfax County’s Department of Family Services and Neighborhood & Community Services. Volunteers improve quality of life by assisting others in one-on-one or group settings. Drivers, social visitors, grocery shoppers and household organizers are needed. Do you have a skill to share? Fairfax County Senior Centers are looking for leaders, entertainers and instructors in fitness, dance, the arts, music, languages and more. Visit their website, email VolunteerSolutions@FairfaxCounty.gov or call 703-324-5406 if you have any questions.

Pet Adoption Corner

Meet CiCi


If you're looking for a sweet, mellow companion with lots of love to share, come meet CiCi. She has 7+ years' experience in the fine art of friendship and is quite accomplished in her abilities. She enjoys strolling through the neighborhood, stopping to smell the roses or whatever interesting scents she may run across. Her family said that she knows basic commands like sit, down, paw and come and that she is very gentle and friendly. She grew up with 2 kids and did well with them, although she could play a little rough with the baby. They also said she's housebroken, had free roam in the house and rides nicely in the car. She LOVES being pet. When she wants more, she will gently nudge her head on you to solicit more pets.


If you'd like to meet Cici, 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.

Important Safety Information

Vaccination Information


Opioid Overdoses on the Rise: Learn How to Get Help


From January - June 2022 there were over 300 nonfatal opioid overdoses and 45 fatal opioid overdoses in the Fairfax Health District (June - December 2022 data is forthcoming from the Virginia Office of the Chief Medical Examiner). Take steps to prevent future overdoses or help individuals who need assistance. County resources include REVIVE! trainings, substance use treatment services and a 24/7 Emergency Services line listed in "Key Contacts"Learn more.


Six key facts about fentanyl:

  1. Fentanyl is involved in more deaths of Americans under 50 than any other cause of death, including heart disease, cancer and all other accidents.
  2. Practically all of the pills seized by law enforcement are fake, and 40% contain a potentially lethal amount of fentanyl.
  3. Fentanyl is involved in more American youth drug deaths than heroin, meth, cocaine, benzos and Rx drugs combined.
  4. Fake pills have been found in all 50 states. Assume any prescription med you see online is fake.
  5. Fentanyl is cheap, potent and profitable, so dealers use it to make fake pills.
  6. Illegally made fentanyl is the primary driver of the recent increase in all U.S. overdose deaths.


Code Compliance - Chickens


With egg and poultry prices increasing, you may be considering keeping chickens on the same lot as your single-family dwelling. However, there are Zoning Ordinance requirements to consider. For example, the keeping of chickens is only allowed on lots two acres or more in size, and structures for chickens must be located at least 50 feet from all lot lines. Owners of lots that do not meet these Zoning Ordinance requirements can only keep chickens with approval of a special permit by the Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA). Through a public hearing, the BZA can consider whether modifications can be approved (such as smaller lot size) if compatible with the adjacent area. The BZA may not approve a special permit to allow roosters. Roosters are only permitted as part of a bona fide agricultural operation.


Residents can learn more about the regulations for the keeping of animals, including chickens, in subsection 4102.7.J of the Zoning Ordinance and from the Department of Planning and Development’s Keeping of Animals flyer.


DCC accepts complaints and concerns about potential violations on the DCC website, or by telephone during regular business hours, at 703-324-1300.

March Emergency Preparedness Newsletter.

Team MVD

Mount Vernon District Staff (top row left to right): Nick Rinehart, Volunteer Shirley Short, Peyton Smith, Supervisor Dan Storck (bottom row left to right) Camela Speer, Cassidy Donaghy, Maddie Carcamo Reyes and Christine Morin

Whether you need a 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, environmental concerns, or need COVID-19 vaccine information? Stop by the Mount Vernon District Office anytime during our office hours, call or email us. We are here to help!

February 2023 Activities:

  • Phone calls: 806
  • Meetings: 235


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 

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

Lorton Library: 9 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

MV District Office: 12:30 p.m. - 3 p.m.

Walk-ins and by appointment

Boards, Authorities and Commissions

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.

 

Fairfax County 250th Commission

To implement the associated procedural and administrative next steps from the recommendations in the Semiquincentennial Work Group's Report, provided to the County Board of Supervisors on July 13, 2021, for the preferred approach for organizing and leading County-wide efforts for an inclusive observance, celebration and commemoration of the Semiquincentennial anniversary of the American Revolution, the Revolutionary War and the Independence of the United States of America.


Citizen Corps Council

To harness the power of every individual through education, training and volunteer service to make communities safer, stronger and better prepared to respond to the threats of terrorism, crime, public health issues and disasters of all kinds. To build on community strengths to develop action plans to involve the whole community, including special needs groups. To focus on public education, training and volunteer opportunities for community and family safety. To promote and oversee Citizen Corps programs. To provide opportunities for special skills and interests. To Identify best practices and report accomplishments.

 

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.


Human Services Council

To review human services needs and assess the effectiveness of the human services delivery system; to report annually on the conditions and effectiveness of the human services delivery system; to develop a more effective and efficient human services delivery system; to enhance coordination of services among human services providers, both public and private; to recommend annual service delivery goals, objectives, and priorities for human services organization, with consideration of the requirements of non-county funding sources; to develop and oversee a five-year long range comprehensive human services plan which establishes goals, objectives and priorities; to educate the community, in consultation with the Board of Supervisors, on human services; to review and transmit to the Board of Supervisors a program-oriented budget for human services; and to review the annual Capital Improvement Plan and provide appropriate comments to the Board of Supervisors.


Transportation Advisory Commission

The Transportation Advisory Commission (TAC) is charged with advising the Board on transportation related policies and issues, in accordance with an adopted work plan approved by the Board, and/or as directed by the Board. The Commission, under the direction of the Board of Supervisors, will advise the Board and provide information and comments on major transportation issues faced by the County; and, provide to the Board recommendations regarding the overall planning and programming of transportation improvements in the County.

 

There are several At-Large positions available as of February 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.

Visit our website

Mount Vernon District Office | 703-780-7518

MTVernon@fairfaxcounty.gov | FairfaxCounty.gov/MountVernon

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