Friends,

Fairfax County has relaunched our Red Flag Law awareness campaign to help residents better understand how this important tool works and the role it plays in keeping our community safe. The campaign focuses on increasing awareness of Emergency Substantial Risk Order (ESRO) which are temporary, court-reviewed measures used during moments of serious risk to prevent harm before it happens.

Since 2020, Fairfax County has obtained 481 ESROs, resulting in 947 firearms being temporarily removed from situations where there was a credible risk of danger. These orders are not permanent and are not criminal charges. They involve an investigation by law enforcement, judicial oversight, and a follow-up hearing, ensuring due process while allowing for timely intervention in situations involving suicide risk, escalating behavior, or credible threats.

This relaunch expands outreach efforts to better reach all residents, with campaign materials now available in English, Spanish, and Korean. You may also notice messaging across Fairfax County Connector buses, helping bring awareness directly into our community and meeting people where they are.

If you would like to learn more about how the Red Flag Law works or how to request an order, I encourage you to visit: ESROs: Temporarily Removing Firearms to Prevent Harm | News Center

To request an ESRO, call the Police non-emergency line at 703-691-2131.

If there is an immediate danger, call or text 9-1-1.

Speak up! Prevent a gun tragedy!

• Talking Leadership on the “Connect with County Leaders” Podcast
• The Fairfax County Animal Shelter's 2025 Annual Report 
• Michael Frey's Celebration of Life
• The Fairfax County Department of Land Development Annual Report

What’s new from the Fairfax County Animal Shelter? The Fairfax County Animal Shelter (FCAS) recently released its 2025 Annual Report, showcasing another year of lifesaving efforts, increased adoptions, and expanded community support. This report reflects the dedication of shelter staff, volunteers, rescue partners, and residents who care deeply about animals in our community.

What are some positive outcomes from 2025?

• The shelter saw strong adoption rates, helping more animals find permanent, loving homes.

• Community engagement and volunteer efforts increased, supporting shelter programs and services.

• FCAS continued to provide high‑quality care, medical treatment, and enrichment for animals in need.

These accomplishments would not be possible without the tireless work of shelter staff and volunteers, as well as the support of residents who adopt, foster, donate, and advocate for animal welfare. Thank you to everyone who helped make 2025 a successful year for Fairfax County’s animals and the people who care for them.

How can I get involved or find a pet? FCAS offers a range of services and resources, including:

• Adoption and foster programs

• Low‑cost vaccinations and microchipping

• Lost and found pet assistance

• Behavior and training resources

Whether you’re looking to adopt a new pet or support the shelter’s work in other ways, there are opportunities to get involved and make a difference.



To read the full 2025 Annual Report, visit: USE MAIN 2025 Annual Report

To explore pet resources and view adoptable animals, visit: Fairfax County Animal Services | Animal Services

Our community recently lost Michael Frey — a respected leader, colleague, and friend whose kindness and steady leadership left a lasting impact on Fairfax County. His passing is deeply felt by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

To honor his legacy and celebrate his life, family, friends, and community members are invited to gather and remember the warmth, humor, and compassion he brought to so many.

When and where is the Celebration of Life?

📅 April 11, 2026

🕒 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.

📍 Government Center Auditorium

There's still time to register! All who knew and loved Michael are welcome. We kindly ask that you RSVP in advance so organizers can plan accordingly.

To register, please visit: Evite: Online Invitations, Greeting Cards & Party Ideas

What the Fairfax County Department of Land Development Services Does for You: The Fairfax County Department of Land Development Services (LDS) ensures that all new development in Fairfax County meets the safety and health standards of all applicable codes and county ordinances. We protect the health, safety, welfare, and environment for those who live in, work in, and visit Fairfax County. 

In the last year, we did this through:

• Ensuring Safe and Compliant Construction

• $1.74 billion in construction

• We reviewed all site, subdivision and building plans, and issued site and building permits (issuing 56,249 building permits for construction)

• We performed 164,941 building inspections and completed 32,842 site inspections

• Taking action against non-compliant construction and land disturbing activities

• We issued 127 erosion and sediment control, 14 stormwater, and 12 resource protection area violations

• Customer outreach to help homeowners, builders, engineers and contractors

• We hosted 69 outreach events (classes, tabling, home shows, etc.) across 59 locations in Fairfax County. You can find out about class offerings or watch recordings of our Buildings Permits 101 and Deck Details Bootcamp classes on our Education and Outreach page

• Providing exceptional customer support to help shepherd customers through the land development process

• The Permitting and Customer Support Center relaunched in the Herrity building. Staff are available for walk-in customers in Room 324 of the Herrity Building (12055 Government Center Parkway) Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. and Friday 9:15 a.m. – 4 p.m.

• In person: every day, on average, we helped 38 customers with each customer waiting 9 minutes or less to speak with a staff member

• By phone: on average our main phone line saw an average wait time per call of 53 seconds. You can reach us at 703-222-0801



For more information, please check out Fairfax County's Land Development Services Fiscal Year 2025 Annual Report