Dear Neighbors,
At this Tuesday's Board of Supervisor's meeting I was very proud to recognize Ron and Laura Fitzsimmons for creating Alice's Kids to anonymouslyly help children in need in our community, and across the country. Named in memory of their mother, Ron and Laura understand first hand the shame of receiving charity and wanted their support to be different. Alice's Kids provides gift cards to teachers who have identified a child's needs, like soccer cleats. The teacher then gives the gift card to a parent or caregiver who takes the child to buy the needed item, or is able to purchase it and surprise the child. Through recent recognitions and articles, Alice's Kids has received over $1.25 million in donations to continue to spreading happiness for children and their families.
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We also recognized the quick action of the Franconia Police Department and the Auto Crimes Enforcement Team (ACE) in responding to Hyundai and Kia car thefts earlier this year in the Lorton area. By increasing their presence in the neighborhoods most impacted, two significant arrests were made, both of which were juvenile offenders. Franconia Captain John Lieb and his team also provided awareness and crime prevention strategies via Nextdoor and broader messaging in their Franconia Community Report, as well as distributing steering wheel locks, providing child safety seat inspections, gun locks and crime prevention and safety information. This partnership is an excellent example of our talented public safety team and how community policing can have a positive impact in our neighborhoods.
The Board conducted a public hearing on a proposal to increase the compensation of the next Board of Supervisors for the first time since 2015. By state law, this action can only be taken in an election year and only applies to the next Board sworn in on January 1, 2024. The Board does not receive the annual pay increases other County employees receive, nor do we accrue annual leave or sick leave. Last week, I held my annual Budget Town Meeting with over 100 residents in person and virtually, received many letters and calls, and I have listened to you. This is a very difficult and sensitive vote that I took very seriously. It is important that Board members can choose to do these jobs full-time, as I do, something essential for our District with its very active citizenry, many major development projects and high human service needs.
After analyzing County employee compensation as well as compensation for elected bodies across the region, County staff recommended an increase to $140,000 for Supervisors and $161,000 for Chairman. While the information was helpful, these amounts were too high. By an 8-2 vote we adopted a salary adjustment consistent with the average percentage increases County staff received over these past eight years: $123,283 for Supervisors and $138,283 for Chairman, effective on January 1, 2024, for the next Board of Supervisors. This decision also includes an increase in the Chairman’s differential to 12%, which reflects a differential similar to other jurisdictions.
Other meeting highlights:
- Approved a public hearing for Parking Reimagined to be held on June 6 at 8 p.m.
- Approved a plan amendment to adopt the Affordable Housing Preservation Policy.
Respectfully yours in public service,
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Dan Storck
Supervisor, Mount Vernon District
Fairfax County Board of Supervisors
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Para recibir la información de nuestro boletín electrónico en español, 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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To view the March 21, 2023 Board Package click here. For a complete listing of public hearings held and approved, please see the Clerk to the Board's official Summary of Board Actions, available the week following each meeting. |
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Proclamations and Recognitions |
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April as Child Abuse Prevention Month |
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Item 3: Approved the extension of the 2232 review period for the Gunston Fire Station 2232 application as a precaution in case more time is needed. The full item can be read here.
Item 9: Authorized the Department of Public Works and Environmental Services, Solid Waste Management Program to apply for and accept grant funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in the amount of $1,991,208 to support consumer recycling education and outreach. The full item can be read here.
Item 10: Authorized the Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination to apply for and accept grant funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Environmental Justice Government-to-Government Program in the amount of $1.0 million to support the establishment of a “Resilience Hub/Solar Sanctuary” in a vulnerable area of the County. Resilience Hubs are community serving facilities augmented to support residents, coordinate communication, distribute resources and enhance communities’ capacity to adapt to climate change. I have been advocating for this CECAP pilot funding to grow our CECAP efforts with regional partners. The full item can be read here.
Authorized Public Hearings for:
- Amend the current appropriation level in the FY 2023 Revised Budget Plan. The public hearing will be held on April 11 at 4 p.m., April 12 at 3 p.m. and April 13 at 3 p.m. The full item can be read here.
- Proposed Zoning Ordinance Amendment to Chapter 112.1 Re: Article 6 Parking and Loading and Related Changes, Parking Reimagined. The public hearing for the Planning Commission will be held on April 19 at 7:30 p.m., and Board on June 6 at 4:00 p.m. The full item can be read here.
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Proposed Revisions of Tree Commission Charter within County Code - Joint with Chairman Jeff McKay and Supervisor Kathy Smith
The charter for the Fairfax County Tree Commission is established in County Code Chapter 122 (Tree Conservation Ordinance) Article 9 (Tree Commission). The commission’s current charter includes:
- an annual re-evaluation of the implementation of the Tree Conservation Ordinance,
- an annual re-evaluation of landscaping and screening requirements contained in the Zoning Ordinance,
- providing leadership in developing an understanding of tree conservation objectives and methods,
- assisting the staff with developing technical specifications and guidelines.
The human and ecological benefits of a healthy urban forest are well-established, and County policy including the Community-wide Energy and Climate Action has established ambitious, specific goals to expand the urban forest. Staff from multiple County departments, including the Public Works and Environmental Services, Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination, Park Authority, Planning and Development, and Land Development Services all have important roles in managing the County’s forest resources.
The Tree Commission has developed a draft of a revised charter, expanding their purview to now additionally include:
- the County’s Natural Landscape Policy,
- promotion of tree planting and care on private property,
- the County’s Tree Action Plan, and
- expanding public outreach to County residents and private organizations.
The proposed changes to the Tree Commission Charter have been discussed by the Chair of the Tree Commission and the Chair of the Environmental Quality Advisory Council, and they support this expansion of Tree Commission responsibilities. As the charter of the Tree Commission is contained within County Code, a code revision is necessary to modify the charter.
Action
- Directed the County Executive direct staff within the Department of Public Works and Environmental Services, Land Development Services, and the Office of the County Attorney to initiate the necessary code amendment process to modify Chapter 122 of County Code to revise the charter of the Tree Commission generally consistent with their proposed draft.
- Directed the County Executive bring the code revision to the Board of Supervisors for approval before December 2023.
5th Annual Environment Expo: Get Outdoors! Learn & Do!
The Mount Vernon District will host its 5th Annual Environment Expo: Get Outdoors! Learn and Do! on Saturday, April 22, 2023, from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Fort Hunt Park. We are excited to partner with the National Park Service, Clean Fairfax and many County agencies again this year. This FREE, fun, family-friendly festival will feature activities and exhibitors sharing information about climate action, environmental challenges we face and solutions we can participate in to make Fairfax County, and the world at large, a healthier, more sustainable place.
Attendees will enjoy live music, reptile and raptor demonstrations, an electric vehicle showcase, nature and Eagle nest walks, giveaways, solar cooking, scavenger hunts and more. Join us to LEARN, ENGAGE and ACT to save our environment! Learn more.
Actions
Directed the Office of Public Affairs to promote the Environment Expo through its various communications channels.
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Proposed Plan Amendment 2021-CW-1CP Affordable Housing Preservation Policy
Approved new guidance to be added to the Housing Element of the Policy Plan and the Glossary to the Comprehensive Plan. Based on the recommendations from the Affordable Housing Preservation Task Force, the guidance incorporates goals, objectives and policies for the preservation of existing affordable, multifamily rental housing, including both market and committed affordable units. It promotes the goal of one-for-one replacement of affordable units in redevelopment and infill development applications by leveraging incentives, such as allowing density or building height. The full item can be read here.
Proposed Salary Increases to $125,000 or up to $130,000 for Members of the Board of Supervisors and to $140,000 or up to $145,000 for the Chairman, Effective January 1, 2024, the Beginning of the Term of the Then Newly-Elected Board
Approved a salary adjustment lower than what staff recommended and lower than the range we advertised two weeks ago: $123,283 for Supervisors and $138,283 for Chairman, effective on January 1, 2024 for the next Board of Supervisors. I have heard from many of you, both for and against an increase. That feedback helped focus and treat Board member compensation like regular County employees and the salary increase that takes effect in January 2024 for the next Board is tied exactly to that.
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Board Appointments
Mount Vernon residents were appointed or reappointed to the following:
- Wetlands Board - Steve Shappell
- Citizen Corps Council - Nicholas Andersen
- Athletic Council - Lester Munson
- Athletic Council Alternate - Robert Kirk
- Upper Occoquan Sewage Authority - Michael McGrath
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Board of Supervisors
April 11: SE-2021-MV-00018 Olde Towne Pet Resort Springfield LLC, 8101 Alban Rd, Springfield. To permit the use of existing and proposed outdoor components associated with an existing indoor kennel.
Planning Commission
Board of Zoning Appeals
March 29: A 2019-MV-007 Giles Industrial LLC (Continued from 10/28/2020, 6/23/2021, 10/27/21, 6/8/2022, and 11/2/2022 ) Appeal of a determination that appellant is allowing an excavating business to be operated on the property, which includes an accessory storage structure, accessory vehicle repair, and an accessory storage yard; without site plan approval, building permit approval, or a Non-Residential Use Permit, in the I-6 District, in violation of Zoning Ordinance provisions.
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District Information & Upcoming Events |
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Lake Accotink Dredging
Two public meetings were held on February 15 and 16, 2023 to share the results of additional analysis on the lake dredging and smaller offline lake management options. The technical presentations from those meetings can be accessed through the links under Presentations to the Community. The dredging of Lake Accotink would cause significant environmental and social impacts and cost approximately $400 million over the next twenty-five years. The Fairfax County Department of Public Works and Environmental Services (DPWES) staff recommend that Lake Accotink not be dredged and that a smaller offline lake not be constructed.
Public Comment Period: County staff are now seeking public comments on the analysis and recommendations through April 1. Learn more and take the survey.
United Community Economic Opportunity Survey
United Community (UC) is dedicated to building thriving communities in Fairfax County and creating equitable opportunities by providing supportive services and advancing community driven solutions. If you live in ZIP Code 22309 or 22306, please complete the Economic Opportunity survey to help UC better serve your community. Share your contact information to learn more about how to get engaged and register for a prize drawing to be announced at the beginning of April! Take the survey.
New FDA Recall of Baby Formula
Perrigo Company plc is issuing a voluntary recall of certain lots of Gerber® Good Start® SootheProTM Powdered Infant Formula in the U.S., that were manufactured at the Company’s Gateway Eau Claire, Wisconsin manufacturing facility from January 2, 2023 to January 18, 2023. This product is being recalled out of an abundance of caution due to the potential presence of Cronobacter sakazakii. Learn more.
Richmond Highway Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Station Design Survey and Open House
The "Community Charm" initiative is focused on integrating artwork into each BRT station to reflect the history, identity and character of the neighborhoods surrounding each station area. FCDOT is working with students from local schools and community centers to develop artwork to inspire the design for the windscreen area. Review the artwork and share your feedback on a survey, which is open through April 3.
You can also speak with project staff and share your input at an upcoming open house. Stop in any time; there will not be a formal presentation.
- March 29 from 6:30-8 p.m.
- Mount Vernon High School (8515 Old Mt Vernon Rd) - Cafeteria (Auditorium/Little Theater Side)
Fairfax County Introduces Fund for Start Up Tech Companies
Entrepreneurs looking to grow their businesses have a new funding option at their disposal. Fairfax County announced the Fairfax Founders Fund (FFF), a grant and technical assistance program providing funds to early-stage Fairfax County-based startups, will begin accepting applications on April 10. FFF will provide up to $50,000 in capital to help start-ups develop their business and prepare for later-stage investment. It is designed for early stage, high-growth trajectory companies seeking investment to develop. Goals of Founders Fund include expanding competitive technology clusters in Fairfax County and growing innovation-based businesses and jobs. Learn more.
Lorton Prisons: Book Talk and Signing
March 25 at 2 p.m.
Lorton Library
Authors Alice Reagan and Kenena Spalding present their new book: Lorton Prisons (Images of America series) recenly published by Arcadia Publishing. The workhouse, reformatory, and penitentiary buildings of the Lorton Correctional Complex were built on land purchased by the federal government in 1910 and leased to the District of Columbia Department of Corrections to establish prisons. The men's workhouse was built in 1910, and a women's annex was added in 1912. A reformatory to rehabilitate prisoners convicted of more serious crimes was built in 1916. All three were constructed dormitory style with no cells or walls. Learn more.
PUBLIC In Name ONLY: Book Signing and Reading
March 28 at 2 p.m.
Gum Springs Museum, 8100 Fordson Rd
Author: Brenda Mitchell-Powell
Workshop--Unpacking Gender: How to Talk to Kids and Teens
March 27 from 7-8 p.m.
Lorton Library, 9520 Richmond Hwy
Participants will explore the messages we are taught about gender and how they can affect our relationships with ourselves, loved ones and community. The discussion will cover the impact gender roles and stereotypes have on everyone and how this knowledge can help us prevent violence. This workshop is aimed at parents, guardians, family members, and other caregivers interested in learning how to talk about gender with the children, teens and young adults in their life. This workshop is free, but registration is required. Learn more.
Play Monopoly April 1st To Benefit LCAC
Now's your chance to benefit LCAC at the Monopoly Tournament to be held April 1. Three timed rounds (two 75-minute rounds and one 60-minute final round with 6 finalists). Cash prizes for top three players: 1st place $500; 2nd place $250; 3rd place $100. Small prizes/trophies for 4th-6th places. Learn more, sponsor the event or purchase a ticket!
Tax Relief Workshops
Staff from the Department of Tax Administration will be at the locations throughout the County to assist with filling out the 2023 tax relief application form, as well as answering questions. To ensure that we are assisting individuals in a timely manner, all workshops will be utilizing appointment scheduling. Workshops at the Mount Vernon Governmental Center will be March 29 and April 12, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Contact 703-324-2550 to schedule an appointment. Learn more.
March is Brain Injury Awareness Month
Brain Injury Services (BIS) wants to spread the word to parents, educators and coaches that concussions and other brain injuries are not just limited to the nation’s sports fields. As spring arrives and we all begin to partake in more outdoor activities and get more active, we must be vigilant about protecting our brains. Brain injuries affect more people than most people might think – soccer fields, bike paths, playgrounds, etc. – concussions aren’t small injuries, and both serious and more “routine” brain injuries have potentially life-altering effects. Even what may seem like a simple concussion can have long-lasting impacts on the ability to earn, learn, and live a happy life. Learn more.
Planting Pinwheel Gardens for Child Abuse Prevention
April is Child Abuse Prevention Month in Fairfax County. Get ready now to display a pinwheel garden during Child Abuse Prevention Month in April at your Fairfax County agency, business, house of worship, school or organization, and help us raise awareness of community resources supporting children and families. To host a pinwheel garden, request supplies to set up your own garden or to volunteer to help set up gardens around the community, email the Department of Family Services by March 24. Learn more.
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Mount Vernon District Office | 703-780-7518
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