Having trouble viewing this email? View as Webpage

May 2023

Neighbors,

May is going to be another busy month in our District! Have you heard? Early in-person voting for the June 20 Democratic Primary began at our Mount Vernon Governmental Center today, Friday, May 5, weekdays from 1 – 7 p.m. In June additional sites will open for two Saturdays and election day. See you at the polls! Learn more.


On May 12, I invite you to join me for the Mount Vernon Memorial Highway Trail Ribbon Cutting, completing several needed trail connections and improving rough sections along this much anticipated and highly used trail. The ceremony will begin at George Washington’s Grist Mill at 10 a.m. and will be followed by a commemorative walk/ride to Grist Mill Park and back.


On May 13 at noon, join me and Mount Vernon School Board Member Karen Corbett Sanders for the Dave Evans Memorial Ball Field Dedication at Walt Whitman Middle School, in coordination with the Evans Family and Fort Hunt Softball. Dave was not only the inspiration behind our annual Tour de Mount Vernon community bike ride, but also a loving father and husband, community champion, Fort Hunt Youth Athletic Association treasurer and Board member, Softball League leader and coach; a longtime leader on the Board of United Community, Good Shepherd Housing and Mount Vernon Springfield Chamber; and owner/operator of award winning, certified green catering company La Prima.

In this Newsletter:

Environment Expo

The Belhaven Ribbon Cutting

MV Mem. Hwy Trail Ribbon Cutting

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

On May 19, join us for Bike to Work Day and stop by our table at the Sherwood Hall Library!


Want to learn more about our District and our government? Join the 2nd Mount Vernon District Neighborhood College class, starting on May 16. This free unique six-session virtual leadership certificate program is open to Mount Vernon District residents interested in learning about Fairfax County and the District. Learn more and register today!


I’ve heard from so many of you who are disappointed the County is not hosting community shred events this year. In response, TEAM MVD has partnered with Crime Solvers to bring our own FREE shred event to you! Residents can bring up to three boxes of paper to Walt Whitman Middle School on June 17 from 8 – 11 a.m. See you there!


As we gear up for another busy month of delivering extraordinary projects and services to you, I’m reminded of how much we have accomplished together over my 30+ years of being a community leader and how your engaged advocacy makes a positive difference for all our residents. Thank you for the opportunity to serve you!


In the spirit of appreciation and celebration, this is the month we extend our gratitude to the incredible mothers and mother figures who have consistently provided their love and dedication to our families. Their selflessness and unwavering support are instrumental in shaping our lives. Additionally, we begin celebrating our graduates who have triumphed in their academic pursuits. As a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and former School Board Member, I am overwhelmed with pride for each and every one of our graduates, as well as the families, neighbors, and teachers who have played an integral role in their journey to success.


Respectfully yours in public service,





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

Happy Mother's Day!

Visit our Website

Celebrating Our Community

Environment Expo


Thank you to everyone who attended the 5th Annual Environment Expo: Get Outdoors! Learn and Do! on April 22. It's been a pleasure to partner with the National Park Service, George Washington Memorial Parkway the last three years to put on a great event at Fort Hunt Park. Attendees learned about the environmental and climate challenges we face on a daily basis and actions you can take to make a difference. Watch the Channel 16 video.

The Belhaven Ribbon Cutting and Grand Opening


I was pleased to celebrate the Grand Opening of The Belhaven Apartments, 6375 Richmond Hwy., on April 19. This beautiful new building is the first completed under the Richmond Highway Urban Design Guidelines and exemplifies the esthetics and amenities we expect to see as we revitalize the Corridor. Thank you to Fairfield and Weinberg Harris for coordinating this event and to Tammy Mannarino from the Fairfax County History Commission for speaking about the historical significances of the area and Spring Bank.

You're Invited!

Event map.

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: [email protected].

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


Land Use

ZMOD Ordinance: Public Hearings to Consider Re-Adoption 


In response to the recent Virginia Supreme Court opinion declaring zMOD void ab initio, on Tuesday, April 11, the Board of Supervisors set public hearings to readopt the zMOD Ordinance and subsequent amendments. The Planning Commission had a public hearing on Wednesday, May 3 and the Board of Supervisors will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, May 9 at 4:30 p.m.


County staff has prepared a Staff Report which includes an updated Summary of Notable Changes document. The Summary provides background on the zMOD project and detailed descriptions of the changes contained in the 2021 version of zMOD and subsequent amendments now proposed for readoption. For questions please contact the Ordinance Administration Branch of the Zoning Administration Division at 703-324-1314 or visit the website.

Health, Housing & Human Services

Mount Vernon District Neighborhood College

May 16-June 20, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Virtual: Zoom

Apply by May 16


Please join me and Fairfax County Neighborhood and Community Services for the 2nd Annual Mount Vernon District Neighborhood College! This FREE six-session virtual certificate program is open to Mount Vernon District residents interested in learning about Fairfax County and the District. Sessions will feature guest speakers, interactive activities, breakout room discussions, networking opportunities and information about advisory boards and other volunteer opportunities. Learn more.

Construction at Hollin Hall Senior Center and Huntington Community Center


Hollin Hall Senior Center 

Please be advised that Hollin Hall Senior Center is undergoing construction which commenced the first week of April, with an estimated completion in October 2023. The renovation includes replacement of the roofing system and the HVAC units. There will be potential for loud noise, dust and reduced parking during different phases of construction. Some programs, clubs and spaces throughout the building may be temporarily affected. Please refer to the community board or feel free to reach out to staff for additional information and updates by calling (703) 765-4573

 

Huntington Community Center

Please be advised that Huntington Community Center is undergoing construction which commenced mid-April, with estimated completion at the end of May. The renovation includes replacement of the roofing system. There will be potential for loud noise, dust and reduced parking during different phases of construction. Any changes in the schedule will be shared accordingly. Please feel free to reach out to staff for additional information and updates by calling (703) 960-1917.

Community Dental Day

Saturday, May 6, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

Mt. Vernon Center for Dentistry, 8101 Hinson Farm Rd., Alexandria


Mt. Vernon Center for Dentistry is hosting a FREE Community Dental Day open to everyone! The event is first come first served and they will be offering cleanings, extractions and fillings to the underserved members of our community. If you are unable to make it, the County also offers additional dental care resources anytime during the year.

Transportation

Bike To Work Day


Bike to Work Day is Friday, May 19. Commuter Connections, the Washington Area Bicyclist Association (WABA) and local governments, will host the 22nd annual event. The first 15,000 who register and attend a pit stop by bike will receive a free T-shirt. There will also be snacks and door prizes at pit stops throughout the region. Even if you are working from home, get exercise by biking to a T-shirt pickup point (pit stop) and then back home to work for the day. And for longer commutes, consider biking the first and last mile to a bus or train stop. The Fairfax County Bike Team will be hosting several pit stops throughout the County:


Mount Vernon District Pit Stops

  • Sherwood Regional Library, 2501 Sherwood Hall Ln., Alexandria
  • Trek Bicycle, 1506 Belle View Blvd., Alexandria
  • Workhouse Arts Center, 9518 Workhouse Way, Lorton
  • Fort Belvoir, Richmond Hwy & Belvoir Rd., just before Pence Gate

Helicopter and Airplane Noise


I often hear from residents about disruptive helicopter or airplane noise over our neighborhoods. While questions of airspace navigation fall under federal jurisdiction, this has not stopped me from working with our federal and state partners, as well as other regional stakeholders to make progress when and where we can. 


Last year, with the help of our federal partners, a new complaint website was launched which allows residents to report helicopter noise. This website gathers critical information which the FAA is using to make policy changes to helicopter flight paths over our neighborhoods. With the leadership and help of Congressman Don Beyer, this system was implemented. Last week, federal officials announced new actions to reduce helicopter noise in Northern Virginia. Learn more.

Commercial Truck Parking Update on Richmond Highway


I have heard from many of you about truck parking throughout the District. And while there are several factors which have made this a challenging issue to tackle, we have been making piecemeal progress. One such example is the service lane at 6600 Richmond Highway (in front of the Target) from Southgate Dr. to the Rosita’s restaurant which regularly attracts commercial truck parking. Residents have often mentioned this location to me as a trouble spot due to limited sight distance and for creating an un-neighborly environment, unbefitting of our Mainstreet. In coordination with Supervisor Lusk and the County Executive, the service lane has now been painted with a double yellow centerline. This will allow Fairfax County Police Department to enforce a truck parking restriction at this location, as trucks continuing to park there are now in violation of obstructing a travel lane (County Code 82-5-20).

Public Safety

Fairfax County Police Department Launches Largest Academy Class in Over a Decade


I am very pleased to learn that Chief Kevin Davis welcomed 56 new candidates who started at the FCPD Academy at the end of April. Session 84 is the largest academy class in more than 10 years and the most diverse class ever, a majority minority class. “FCPD has focused its efforts in finding people with a passion to serve and a desire to make a difference in communities. By streamlining our processes and showing our future cops what FCPD is all about, we were able to make huge strides in this academy class,” said Chief Kevin Davis. The Board has been approving substantial pay increases and benefits packages that provide recruitment bonuses and implement new officer recruiting techniques. The Board also voted on the FY 2024 Budget which included additional compensation increases averaging 12.8% for department personnel. Thank you to our incredible Fairfax County police officers who work hard to keep us safe every day. Read my recent article in the Mount Vernon Gazette.

ATF Offers $5,000 Cash Reward to Help Identify Serial Robbery Suspects

 

FCPD detectives are investigating two 7-Eleven robberies that occurred in the County. On April 12, a man entered the 7-Eleven located at 7330 Richmond Hwy, displayed a handgun and demanded money. On April 19, another man entered the 7-Eleven located at 4818 Beauregard St., displayed a handgun and demanded the clerk’s wallet and cash from the register. The United States Department of Justice Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives is offering a $5,000 reward for information that leads to the arrest of the group responsible for these 7-Eleven robberies.


Detectives would like to speak to anyone who may have information about this case or other similar cases. Those with information are asked to call the Major Crimes Bureau at 703-246-7800, option 5. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Solvers at 866-411-8477 and by downloading the ‘P3 Tips’ App and follow the steps to “Fairfax Co Crime Solvers.” Leave contact information if you wish for a detective to follow up with you.

Investing in Our Firefighters


On April 7, a new firetruck was placed in-service at Penn Daw Fire Station #11. Learn about the new apparatus:

  • In-Service Date: April 7, 2023
  • Location: Penn Daw Fire Station #11; 6624 Hulvey Terrace
  • Apparatus Designation: Truck 411
  • Daily Minimum Staffing: 4 personnel every day for a 24-hour shift.
  • Type of Vehicle:  2021 Pierce Velocity 105’ Ladder 
  • Vehicle Cost:  $ 1,240,029.00, including communications equipment.

Parks & Environment

EVs From Every Angle: Is an EV Right for You?  


Did you know new requirements for federal tax credits for electric vehicles (EVs) took effect across the U.S. in April? Qualifying individuals may claim a federal tax credit of up to $7,500 for new vehicles that meet critical mineral and battery component sourcing requirements. With incentives like this and growing EV infrastructure in the U.S., it’s becoming easier than ever to buy and operate an EV. Read more from the Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination.

Climate Action Dashboard Now Available


The Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination recently released the Climate Action Dashboard, a single site for explaining and sharing progress with residents on the County’s ambitious climate action goals. The long-term goals include achieving community-wide carbon neutrality by 2050 and for County government operations by 2040.

In the News

Crisis Team Captain Opens Up About Days-Long Richmond Highway Standoff


In the last days of March, police, crisis negotiators and SWAT responded to Richmond Highway after police said a woman barricaded herself in her car with a gun. "We just tried to continue that dialogue throughout that entire 34-hour barricade, continue that communication, continue to reach out to the individual and try and get them to surrender peacefully," Fairfax County Police Department Crisis Negotiation Team Commander Captain Frederick Chambers said. Read more and watch the 7News interview with Captain Frederick Chambers.

New Behavioral Health Services Clinic Opens in Richmond Highway Corridor 


A group led by retired school social worker Felicea Meyer-DeLoatch came together to address the local need for culturally competent, accessible, community based behavioral health care on Richmond Highway. Their work resulted in the opening of The Growth and Healing HUB, which provides affordable, inclusive behavioral health and wellness services to children and families in southern Fairfax County. Read more from the Fairfax County Times.

Arcadia Debuts Farmers Market in Hybla Valley


The Arcadia Center for Sustainable Food and Agriculture launched a new farmers market at the Hybla Valley Community Center every Saturday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The weekly event will feature produce, meat and eggs sourced from Virginia-based farms, including from Arcadia’s own Dogue and Hilltop Farms. Arcadia also will also double customers’ SNAP benefits. Read more from On The Move.

Community Information

FCRHA Launches Scholarship Program


The Fairfax County Redevelopment and Housing Authority (FCRHA) is excited to announce the launch of a new scholarship opportunity for Fairfax County residents who live in housing supported by the FCRHA. The purpose of the scholarship program is to provide financial support to individuals to attend an accredited postsecondary education institution for the upcoming 2023 academic year. This scholarship is based on merit. The deadline for submission of applications is Friday, May 19, at 4:30 p.m. Upon completion of the selection process, up to ten recipients will each be awarded a scholarship in the amount of $5,000 which can be used at an accredited postsecondary education institution. Learn more.

Eagle Festival 2023

Saturday, May 13, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Mason Neck State Park, 7301 High Point Rd., Lorton


Join the Public Land Agencies on the Mason Neck Peninsula and Friends organizations for their annual Eagle Festival. This free event will include live animal shows, nature walks, exhibits, activities, music, food, live eagle cameras and more. Learn more.

Historic Open House Events Set at Two Lorton Sites

Saturday, May 20, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Stempson House, 9501 Furnace Rd.

Hannah P. Clark/Enyedi House, 10605 Furnace Rd.


May is Historic Preservation Month and there are many events in Fairfax County to bring awareness to historic places and heritage preservation. Curators with the Park Authority’s Resident Curator Program will host two open house events to share the home improvements made to two of Lorton’s historic houses, Stempson House and the Hannah P. Clark/Enyedi House. Learn more.

Double Your SNAP Benefits at Park Authority Farmers Markets


Fairfax County residents receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits can now DOUBLE their benefits at five of the Fairfax County Park Authority’s 10 Farmers Markets through a SNAP Matching Program. Bring your EBT cards to the SNAP Information Table at the following markets in the Mount Vernon District and receive double the amount to purchase extra fruits and vegetables:

  • McCutcheon/Mount Vernon Farmers Market, Wednesdays, April 19 - Dec. 20, from 8 a.m. - noon, 2501 Sherwood Hall Ln., Alexandria
  • Lorton Farmers Market, Sundays, May 7-Nov. 19, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., 8990 Lorton Station Blvd., Lorton

Learn more.

Northern Virginia Region Opioid Response Survey


Share your thoughts on resource needs to address the opioid epidemic in Northern Virginia. As Northern Virginia explores possible regional projects to be funded with opioid settlement dollars, The Northern Virginia Opioid Response Network and DBHDS Region 2 Community Service Boards are seeking input on potential uses of opioid settlement funds. Let your voice be heard. Take the survey by Friday, May 12. Learn more.

Grill Donation from Village Hardware to Mount Vernon Fire Station 9


THANK YOU Village Hardware for your generous donation of a new Weber grill to the Mount Vernon Fire Station 9. Village Hardware has shared a wonderful relationship with our community for over 65 years and was thrilled to support our first responders. Jim Carmalt who helped organize this donation said, "May it bring many a good meal to those that always expose themselves to danger for all of us." Thank you Village Hardware and thank you to all the first responders who work tirelessly to keep us safe.

Military, Veteran and Military Spouse Career Fair

In-person: Wednesday, May 10, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

National Museum of the United States Army, 1775 Liberty Dr., Fort Belvoir

Virtual: Thursday, May 11, 1-4 p.m.


Transitioning service members, veterans and military spouses are invited to join the Career Fair and Resource Expo with 26 of Northern Virginia’s top military friendly companies, seeking to honor your service with 10k+ job openings. Participating companies are looking for candidates to fill entry level and cleared positions in Northern Virginia. All experience levels are welcome to attend. Additional features: Onsite resume reviews, upskilling resource providers and free professional headshots, all to assist your transition and career success. This event is hosted by Fairfax County Economic Development Authority and Virginia Chamber of Commerce’s Hire Vets Now Foundation in partnership with Fort Belvoir. Learn more and register.

Gartlan Center Advisory Board Meeting

Tuesday, May 9, 9:30 - 11 a.m.

Virtual: Zoom


ZOOM with the Advisory Board for the Joe and Fredona Gartlan Center for Mental Health. This is your opportunity to learn what is available in Mount Vernon to help with stressful challenges facing all of us. It is also your opportunity to suggest change and meet with those who work to help. Call (703) 660-2327 on May 8 for the Zoom link if you would like to join the meeting.

Pet Adoption Corner

Meet Stitch


This esteemed older gentleman is looking for a new home to call his own. Stitch is a male, tan Golden Retriever mix and about 9 years old. Stitch tolerates other dogs but would prefer to be the only one who receives his owners love. He will need a little time to settle in and realize that he's there to stay, but if his adopter has patience and can help him work through a separation anxiety phase, they will get a great dog. Stitch loves being outside and would benefit from having a fenced yard or owner who will take him on long walks


If you'd like to meet Stitch, 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

Code Compliance - Grass Height


Every year the Department of Code Compliance (DCC) accepts complaints about grass height and enforces grass height regulations from late-April to mid-October. This year, DCC started accepting complaints about grass height on April 21. Chapter 119 of the Fairfax County Code requires that grass be no taller than 12 inches on:

  1. Developed residential property less than a half-acre (21,780 square feet), regardless of whether the dwelling on the property is occupied.
  2. Undeveloped residential property less than one-half acre and located within a recorded subdivision where 90% of the parcels have been developed.
  3. Commercial and industrial properties of any size that are developed but unoccupied (no tenants).

Additional information on grass height is available from the Department of Code Compliance (DCC) Grass Height document.


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

Beware Of Child Heatstroke! Look Before You Lock!


Did you know that a car’s temperature can rise over 20 degrees in ten minutes? Or that the temperature inside your car can reach 110 degrees even at an outside temperature of 60 degrees?


Needless to say, leaving a child unattended in a vehicle for even a minute is not acceptable. Unfortunately, every year, young children are left alone in a vehicle that quickly heats up with the end result being injury or even death. Some cases involve kids getting into unlocked vehicles, unbeknownst to parents, and quickly succumbing to the heat. Make sure your car is locked when you are not in it so kids are not able to gain access. Read tips from the Fairfax County Fire & Rescue Department.

May Emergency Preparedness Newsletter

Team MVD

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.

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!

April 2023 Activities:

  • Phone calls: 806
  • Meetings: 250


Stay Connected: 

Mount Vernon Governmental Center

2511 Parkers Lane 

Mount Vernon, VA 22306

703-780-7518 (TTY 711) 703-780-1491 (fax)

[email protected] 

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.


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.


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 April 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 [email protected]. 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

[email protected] | FairfaxCounty.gov/MountVernon

STAY CONNECTED

Facebook  Twitter  Instagram