|
We have officially entered the “-ber” months, which means it’s time to put on your helmet, pick out your Halloween costume and JOIN US for our 11th Annual Tour de Mount Vernon Community Bike Ride on Saturday, October 31, HALLOWEEN! This year's ride will explore the southern part of the District, beginning and ending at the Workhouse Arts Center. We’ll also have a special costume contest, so bring your most spooky, silly or fun costume and come out to ride! Register today.
This month, we recognize the 25th Anniversary of 9/11. We all remember where we were and how we felt that day, and 25 years later, we continue to remember the nearly 3,000 lives lost, honor the selfless first responders and service members who answered the call to help, remember the passengers who bravely fought back against the terrorists and recognize the lasting impact on their families and our nation. I encourage you to join the Army Historical Foundation for the 9/11 Honor Walk on September 11, 12 & 13. The County is also hosting a 9/11 25th Anniversary remembrance event at the Public Safety Headquarters at 10:10 a.m. Registration is required for in-person attendance, a livestream will also be available on Channel 16.
September is also National Preparedness Month and is a great time to establish a safety plan for you and your family in the event of a natural disaster. Preparedness is also about having the right tools in place when crime or other emergencies occur.
| |
Progress at The Commons Mount Vernon - new front entrance | |
In this Newsletter:
Upcoming Events
Celebrating Our Community
Transportation
Health, Housing & Human Services
Public Safety
Parks & Environment
District Information
In the News
Pet Adoption Corner
Connect With Team MVD
Boards, Authorities & Commissions
| | |
As a parent, former school board member and chair, the safety of our students remains a priority for me. Following concerns raised by parents and our community, the Board discussed high school crossing guards and ways to improve student safety during Tuesday’s Budget Policy Committee meeting. Fairfax County Police Department (FCPD) will be providing traffic and pedestrian-crossing support through police officers and crossing guards at the 11 previously staffed locations (including West Potomac, South County and Edison) while evaluations are completed. We will also continue working with FCPD, schools and all of you to identify additional safety measures. This is yet another reminder that safety is a shared responsibility. We all must Take a Moment, slow down, put down our phones and remember that our actions can keep us all safe and make a difference.
There has been a lot of discussion about Flock Safety License Plate Reader (LPR) cameras, and I want to address some of the facts with you. FCPD has used LPR technology for more than 20 years to gather valuable information that has helped solve crimes. Since beginning to use Flock Safety LPRs in 2022, we have seen the effectiveness firsthand, including recovering 546 stolen vehicles, locating 57 missing people, supporting investigations that resulted in 1,704 felony charges and overall significant Fairfax County and Mount Vernon crime reductions. I support the responsible, accountable and audited use of LPRs as an important investigative tool while also advocating for additional regulation, safeguards and oversight to protect individual privacy and maintain community trust. Our 100% audits have confirmed that compliance for Fairfax County. For more about LPRs and success stories, click here. And click here for a fact sheet Chief Davis shared with additional information about FCPD’s use of LPRs.
Wishing you all a safe and happy Labor Day!
Respectfully yours in public service,
| |
Dan Storck
Supervisor, Mount Vernon District
Fairfax County Board of Supervisors
| | |
Upcoming In-Person & Virtual Events
| Celebrating Our Community | | |
Overlook Ridge Park Groundbreaking
We had a great day last week celebrating the groundbreaking of Overlook Ridge Park! After more than a decade of work, this former closed landfill off of Furnace Road in Lorton is finally becoming a 250-acre park at the highest point in Fairfax County, with sweeping views of Northern Virginia and the Potomac River. We have led a true community effort with the Fairfax County Park Authority, Waste Management, Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, South County Federation and many community advocates coming together to make this vision a reality. The park will include hiking trails, picnic benches, performance space and sightseeing opportunities.
| | | Team MVD in the Community | | Fort Belvoir Change of Command, Farewell Col. David Stewart and Welcome Col. Samuel Allen | | Gov. Abigail Spanberger Visits Neighborhood Health | | Final MV Summer Concert at Grist Mill Park; Performance by Black Masala | | Celebrating Women's Equality Day with Lynne Garvey-Hodge at Riverview and the Turning Point Suffragist Memorial | | Aldersgate UMC 70th Anniversary | | Vance Zavela's Retirement after 27 Years of Service with the County and Community | | |
Fairfax Connector Expands Transit Fare Assistance With TRIP100
Fairfax Connector has announced the launch of TRIP100, a new Transit Ridership Incentive Program that provides qualified Fairfax County residents with a 100% fare discount on Fairfax Connector bus service. The new program, supported by a grant from the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT), replaces the previous TRIP program, which provided a 50% fare discount on Fairfax Connector. Learn more.
| | |
Newington Road and Cinder Bed Road Traffic Signal Now in Operation
Good news! A new traffic signal at the northern intersection of Newington Road (Route 877) and Cinder Bed Road (Route 754) is now in operation. The traffic signal is one of several improvements focused on driver safety and operations, as well as pedestrian safety and mobility; the signal includes flashing yellow arrows from northbound Newington Road to the Gunston Industrial park and southbound Newington Road to Cinder Bed Road. Learn more.
| | |
VPRA and VRE Community Advisory Group (CAG) Meeting #5: Fairfax County Projects
Wednesday, September 23, 12:30 - 1:30 p.m.
The Virginia Passenger Rail Authority (VPRA) and Virginia Railway Express (VRE) are convening virtual quarterly meetings to share details about three key passenger rail projects in Fairfax County. Invitees include neighborhood leaders, business owners, property managers, special interest groups, County officials and other stakeholders. Projects to be discussed include:
- Lorton Third Track
- Franconia-Springfield VRE Station Improvement
- Franconia-Springfield Bypass
Register.
| | Health, Housing & Human Services | | |
Medicaid Changes for Noncitizen Adults Begin October 1, 2026
To qualify for full Medicaid benefits after October 1, 2026, adults will need to be a U.S. citizen, a Lawful Permanent Resident, Cuban or Haitian Entrant or a Compact of Free Association migrant. Medicaid rules for children and pregnant members are NOT changing. Regardless of immigration status, there are community clinics and other services available to help you stay healthy. Find low-cost or free health care options in Fairfax County. Learn more about these changes and how to update your contact information to get important notices.
| | |
FCPS ACE Offers $700 Scholarships for Healthcare and Medical Career Certification Training
Fairfax County Public Schools Adult and Community Education (FCPS ACE) have begun accepting applications for $700 scholarships toward eligible career certification training in health and medical fields. The scholarships are designed to help adults reduce tuition costs and take a practical first step toward in-demand work serving patients or supporting the operations that make healthcare possible. Learn more.
| |
Introducing the Caregiving at a Glance Video Series
Insight Memory Care Center is pleased to introduce a new series of self-paced videos based on its Caregiving at a Glance guide. Created for individuals and families navigating memory loss, these brief, accessible videos provide practical information, trusted guidance and helpful strategies that can be viewed at any time and at the viewer’s own pace. The series is designed to help care partners better understand common challenges, build confidence and feel more prepared throughout the dementia journey. Click here to access the videos.
| | |
2026 Midyear Crime Comparison
The FCPD 2026 Midyear Crime Comparison has been released, and I am pleased to see Fairfax County continuing to build on the strong crime reductions we experienced in 2025. Through June 30, total crime was down 7% from the same period last year, including a 13% reduction in property crime. While violent crime increased slightly by 2%, Fairfax County had the lowest violent crime total among the 70 jurisdictions included in the Major Cities Chiefs Association comparison. These results are encouraging and reflect the continued efforts of our officers, public safety partners and you (our community) to keep our County the safest jurisdiction of our size! And we need your support by saying something when you see something, sharing camera recordings/footage when needed, connecting with your neighbors and funding our finest! Learn more.
| | |
FCPD Chief's Spotlight: Lost, Located and Led to Safety
This week’s Chief’s Spotlight highlights the coordinated efforts of the Real Time Crime Center, Fairfax 1 and the Mount Vernon Mids B squad in locating a father and son who got lost while out hiking. Check out the video!
| | |
Detectives Unmask Suspect Behind Lorton “Scream” Destruction Spree
Detectives from FCPD's Criminal Investigations Division (CID) have arrested a man after a surveillance operation connected him to multiple destruction of property incidents at a Lorton homeowner’s community center that caused approximately $8,000 in damage. Since July 9, a masked suspect committed six destruction of property incidents at the homeowner’s community center located at 9050 Lorton Station Boulevard. During each incident, the masked suspect damaged windows using rocks, a hammer and cinder blocks. Learn more.
| | |
Fairfax250 Brings Free History Experiences to Fairfax County Parks This Fall
The Fairfax County Park Authority is offering visitors two free ways to explore local history this fall as part of Fairfax250, the County’s commemoration of America’s 250th anniversary. The September Sundays Free Tour Series brings guided programs to seven historic sites on September 6, 13, 20 and 27, while the Fairfax250 Adventure Patch offers a self-guided experience that visitors can complete on their own schedule. September Sunday tours will be offered at Colvin Run Mill, Ellanor C. Lawrence Park, Green Spring Gardens, Historic Huntley and Sully Historic Site. Learn more.
| |
Acorn & Seed Collection Program
September 8–October 11
Outside our Office at the Mount Vernon Governmental Center
Help support Virginia’s native forests by collecting acorns for the Virginia Department of Forestry’s Acorn and Seed Collection Program. Our office is hosting a collection bin monitored by the Virginia Master Naturalists – Fairfax Chapter.
Please collect acorns in paper or canvas bags, not plastic, and separate different types of acorns into separate labeled bags with the collection date and site. Please contact Jerry Nissley, jerry14niss@gmail.com for questions.
| |
YARD WATCH by the Fairfax Invasive Removal Alliance: Kudzu (Peuraria montana)
Kudzu, known as “the vine that ate the south,” is a perennial, high-climbing vine that is a native of Southeastern China and Japan. It was first introduced to the US in 1876, and by 1905 was identified as a nutritious forage for cattle. By 1946 an estimated 300,000 acres were planted by farmers. It was also widely used by highway departments to control soil erosion. Kudzu is now invasive in all of the southeastern states of the US.
Once established, kudzu can grow up to a foot a day, and covers huge swaths of land. It smothers everything in its path from native grasses to tall trees, and by depriving them of sunlight for photosynthesis, starves them to death. This loss of native habitat affects other native plants, insects and animal species, reducing the biodiversity in the region.
Kudzu grows in all types of habitat including poor soil. It multiplies through rhizomes, which is a root system strong enough to damage walls and roads. In addition, it has the ability to create new roots when the nodes of the vines touch the ground, creating a new plant. Kudzu grows large, starchy tubers belowground that sustain its growth even after the crowns are cut. Manual removal can be done in small infestations. For other options of kudzu removal follow this link.
| | |
Green Kitchen Swap
Saturday, September 19, 9–11 a.m.
Mount Vernon Unitarian Church, 1909 Windmill Lane
Bring like-new kitchen items you no longer need, such as utensils, pans, dishes, linens and small appliances, and swap them for something you can use. Everyone is welcome, and everything is free! You do not need to bring items to participate. Coffee, tea and baked goods will also be provided, and any items that are not taken will be donated. The event is hosted by the Mount Vernon Unitarian Church Climate Action Team. Learn more.
| | |
Fairfax Water Customer Focus Group
Thursday, September 25, 7-8:30 p.m.
Lorton (Full Location Provided After Application Selection)
Fairfax Water is hosting a series of customer focus groups to gain deeper insight into your experiences and help shape the future of its services. Participation requires completing an application. If selected, you will receive a confirmation email at the address provided. Apply today. Learn more.
| | |
Dolly Parton’s Legacy Includes 1975 Show at Original Mount Vernon High School
As the nation mourns country music great Dolly Parton, some of the residents in Mount Vernon feel a little closer to this country music legend because some 51 years ago Parton put on a show at Mount Vernon High School with a few other country musicians to put the school on the map.
On the official scheduling announcement, Dolly Parton was part of the cast of this "all star shindig," it says. The date was Sept. 28, 1975 and the other musicians included Freddy Fender, Lester Flatt and Moe Bandy. Admission was $3.50-$5.50. Lester Flatt was more famous for his part in the “Flatt and Scruggs” duo that became famous for the Beverly Hillbillies theme song among others. That theme song was officially known as "The Ballad of Jed Clampett." Read more from the Mount Vernon Gazette.
| |
Connect with County Leaders Interview Between County Executive and Tim Rizer
Join Fairfax County Executive Bryan Hill for an engaging conversation with local business leader and philanthropist Tim Rizer. Discover how this Lorton-based entrepreneur made his mark in the business world—and later transformed the local arts scene through his vision for the reimagining and development of the Workhouse Arts Center and the revitalization of South County.
| |
|
Meet Rocco
Rocco is a goofy, playful 10-month-old pup who's guaranteed to make you smile every single day. He loves treats, enjoys bouncing around with his toys and has the kind of silly personality that keeps life fun. Rocco is still learning the ropes when it comes to potty training, so he'll thrive with an owner who's patient and willing to guide him as he grows. He's eager to please and picks things up quickly-especially when snacks are involved! In the shelter's Rocco has been playful and energetic, sweet, sociable and full of charm! If you're looking for a young dog with a big heart and an even bigger personality, Rocco might be the perfect match.
Rocco is currently available at the Lorton Campus. If you would like to meet him 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.
| | Mount Vernon District Staff (left to right): Supervisor Dan Storck, Renee Ok, Christine Morin, Diego Rodriguez Cabrera, Dot Johnson, Cynthia Rosales, Ebadullah Ebadi, Cassidy Donaghy, Volunteer Shirley Short | | |
Whether you need a free notary, voter information, Mosquito Dunks or you would like to reserve meeting space in the Mount Vernon Governmental Center or Lorton Police Station -- 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!
| | |
August 2026 Activities:
- Phone calls: 473
- Meetings: 193
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
| | |
MV Office Hours
Monday - Wednesday, Friday:
8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Thursday: 8:30 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Lorton Office Hours
Staffed by appointment only.
- Call 703-780-7518 in advance to make an appointment at this location.
Second Saturday of Each Month
Lorton Library: 9 - 11:30 a.m.
MV District Office: 12:30 - 3 p.m.
Walk-ins and by appointment
| | |
Update from Mount Vernon School Board Member Mateo Dunne
Please read my partner on the corridor School Board Member (SBM) Mateo Dunne's newsletter for an update on Fairfax County Public Schools.
| |
Openings on the MVD Boards, Authorities and Commissions | | |
Are you passionate about our community and helping it grow and change? Join Supervisor Storck and serve 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. Two open Mount Vernon District positions:
-
Fairfax Area Disability Services Board: In accordance with Va. Code Sec. 51.5-47 to provide input to state and local agencies on service needs and priorities of persons with physical and sensory disabilities, to provide information and resource referral to local governments regarding the Americans with Disabilities Act, and to provide such other assistance and advice to local governments as may be requested.
-
Information Technology Policy Advisory Committee: To provide the Board with a source of objective advice regarding information technology issues.
Learn more about 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.
| | |
Below are community links to local groups, organizations, school news and more. Click the links to learn more and sign up for their newsletters.
| | | |  | | |
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
Fairfax Water Emergency Line
(703) 698-5613
Fairfax County Public Schools Family Information - English Phone Line
(703) 204-3941
Fairfax County Animal Shelter
(703) 324-0299
| | | |
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
Fairfax County Public Library
(703) 324-3100, TTY 711
Office of Elections
(703) 222-0776, TTY 711
Fairfax County Health Department
(703) 246-2411, TTY 711
| | | | |
