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03.17.2026
Dear Neighbor,
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Ok, let’s talk about last Thursday! Wow. In all the years I’ve lived here, I can’t remember a day quite like it, starting in the high 70s, shifting to snow, and ending with weak sunshine and early‑spring temperatures. Three seasons in one day was a perfect demonstration of “false spring.”
And as if that weren’t enough, yesterday brought us another roller‑coaster weather day with storms sweeping through and through again, capped off by plunging temperatures. I hope you all are safe after this latest round of weather. We sent out information yesterday with resources if you need them but please know our office is also here to help you.
Hopefully this stretch of chaotic weather will soon be behind us, and we’ll be spending our days enjoying backyard BBQs, swim meets, lots of daylight, and everything that comes with the real arrival of summer...
| | It's budget season again, and my colleagues and I have been closely studying the County Executive's proposal. I take seriously my responsibility to be a good steward of taxpayer dollars. Budgets are value statements, so I look to prioritize the things that my constituents and community value and ensure we are strategic in how we use our resources to move the County forward. In these tough budget times, tough choices must be made and that is why I want to hear from you! What do you most value? Where do you want to see our resources going? | | |
The proposed Fiscal Year 2027 Budget holds the real estate tax rate steady while making meaningful investments in compensation for our County public servants, funding for schools, and infrastructure - all while navigating an uncertain economic environment.
I've been hearing from residents and advocates about their proposals and about planned cuts to balance the budget, listed in the Agency Reductions package. And I'd like to hear from you as well! There are several upcoming opportunities to share your priorities for where and how the County should commit its resources.
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I'll be hosting the annual Braddock District Budget Town Hall at the Channel 16 Studio on March 24 at 7:00 p.m. along with newly-elected School Board member Tom Dannan and Chief Financial Officer Christina Jackson. Here is how you can watch and participate:
Budget Town Hall
Tuesday, March 24 at 7:00 p.m.
Do you have a question to submit for the town hall?
Budget Public Hearings
The Board will also be hosting a series of Budget Public Hearings April 14, 15, and 16 at the Government Center. We want to hear from residents and encourage you to sign up to speak in person, by prerecorded video, or by phone at one of the three meetings.
Interact and Provide Feedback
The FY 2027 Advertised Budget features an interactive dashboard that provides a visual overview of the proposal. The dashboard allows users to explore County programs and services (disbursements), the revenue sources that support them, and recent trends in revenues and spending. Users can move between pages and hover over charts for additional detail.
Explore the interactive budget dashboard
The County offers multiple methods for residents to offer feedback on the Budget. You can share your comments using these methods:
In the Community
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Last Wednesday I was invited to speak with Scouting America Troop 1131 of Burke. We talked about our County's form of government, what local government does, and how the Scouts can be civically engaged -- from voting when they are old enough, to writing emails or speaking with their elected officials, and taking action in their own community. I'm always impressed by the questions I receive from young people in our community, especially Scouts. Thank you Troop 1131 for your hospitality and for the gift of a patch and scarf!
Yours in service,
| | Supervisor Rachna Sizemore Heizer | | |
In this issue:
- Notes from the Boardroom
- Transportation Updates
- Upcoming Events & Opportunities
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Environment & Parks - Free Trees!
- Summer Internship Opportunity
- Avoiding Home Improvement Scams
- Public Safety Updates
- Services for Older Adults in Fairfax County
- Countywide Strategic Plan Launches New Cultural and Recreational Opportunity Dashboard
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Four Board Committee meetings took place on March 10:
Budget Policy Committee
At this meeting we had a discussion on the County's Capital Improvement Program (CIP). The CIP is our system for funding the development, upgrade, and renovation of our County, Schools, and Parks facilities through the issuance of municipal bonds, most of which are approved by voters via referendum.
Bond funding is an effective and responsible method of improving our facilities because a) we can avoid drawing from our General Fund to pay for projects, leaving funds for other priorities; b) bonds are repaid over time, so that the taxpayers are funding projects at the same time they are being constructed; and c) the County's observance of the Ten Principles of Sound Financial Management ensure that we maintain our AAA bond rating and that our bonds are highly valued in the market. By maintaining a AAA bond rating, we are able to borrow money at lower interest rates, thus saving the taxpayers money. Funding construction and renovation projects via bonds also means that those who will enjoy these new or renovated facilities will be ones paying for them, since it takes time for construction and change. It saves operating dollars for services such as public safety, schools, parks, libraries, mental health, substance abuse, housing, and much more.
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The County's Bond cycles alternate yearly between funding for County/Parks and for Schools. This year I'm glad that funding for the much-needed renovation of the Audrey Moore Rec Center will be part of the ballot referendum. The CIP outlines which facilities are proposed to seek bond funding for the next five years. The Kings Park Library is proposed to move from this year to 2032. I'll continue to advocate for improvements to this valued community resource last renovated in 1993 -- the only library central to the Braddock District, which also houses our Board of Supervisors office.
| Land Use Policy Committee | | At last week’s meeting of the Land Use Policy Committee, the Board heard from staff with the Department of Planning and Development (DPD) on a proposed amendment to the Residential Building Height Zoning Ordinance. The amendment would address height restrictions for new homes and infill developments. This presentation was requested by the Board of Supervisors via a joint board matter last fall after the press reported on a home renovation that didn’t appear to meet the County’s long established height restrictions of 35 feet. | |
DPD shared information gathered about residential height standards in other localities and housing trends in the area. They noted that current market demand for large homes and for homes designed with multiple ridgelines has driven the housing industry to construct larger homes with creative ways of meeting the 35-foot height requirement. These designs have made it more challenging for inspectors to determine whether homes are following the County’s height ordinance.
DPD staff are considering various options to address this issue, but will first gather feedback from the housing industry and County residents before returning to the Land Use Policy Committee with a proposal this fall.
Please use this link to view the presentation to the Land Use Policy Committee.
Safety and Security Committee
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Fairfax County Police Department 2025 Crime Data
Chief Kevin Davis and Assistant Chief Brooke Wright gave a presentation to the Board on the 2025 Crime Data. Crime is down in Fairfax County, thanks to our outstanding Police Department. Homicides are down 7%, with 100% case clearance rate. Robberies are down 19% and burglaries are down 27%. Motor vehicle deaths are down 53% and pedestrian deaths are down 20%. More statistics can be found in the presentation that was provided to the Board.
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During the presentation, the Chief and Assistant Chief also discussed staffing and recruiting. There has been a 22% increase in applicants and a 24% decrease in attrition. There have been 140 new officers recently hired and among those officers, 26 different languages are spoken. The sworn vacancy rate is 3%.
Did you know that women make up less than 14% of sworn officers and 20% of recruits in state and local law enforcement agencies? FCPD committed to the 30x30 initiative in 2022 with the goal of having 30% of the police force be women. In 2022, there was a recruit class that was 37% female. The last several recruit classes have been above 25% female. To learn more about the myths, facts and public safety realities, visit here. We continue to work to attract women to the profession, as well as taking steps to increase our retention of women to ensure they can make FCPD a true career.
Research backs up why this matters. Women officers receive fewer complaints, draw their firearms less, use excessive force less often, and are less likely to be involved in lawsuits, making them measurably lower-risk in high-stakes encounters (National Policing Institute; ResearchGate). Female victims are more willing to report sex crimes and domestic violence when women officers are involved, and agencies with higher female representation show better rape reporting and clearance rates, with institutional benefits compounding once women exceed 30% of staff (ScienceDirect; Georgetown University).
Police Radio Encryption
The Board received a presentation from FCPD on Police Radio Encryption. Many of the jurisdictions surrounding Fairfax County have already moved to encrypting their police radio communications.
Historically, police scanner communications required special equipment and knowledge to monitor. Today, there are free police scanner apps available that anyone worldwide can access. Radio traffic often includes sensitive information about victims, community members, witnesses and suspects. By encrypting radio communications, it allows only those with access to the encryption key to have access to sensitive information. This means that when you call 911 or interact with police, your personal information, address, and details shared during that call are protected and not broadcast to anyone around the world with a smartphone app.
FCPD is planning to encrypt the 8 main dispatch channels to limit permanent exposure to community members' personal information to a global audience. FCPD will have support from the Department of Information Technology and the Department of Public Safety Communications to ensure no interruption of service.
FCPD continues to remain committed to transparency. There will continue to be proactive Public Affairs Bureau posts and notifications, as well as media briefings and updates on notable investigations. FCPD will continue to release body worn camera footage, respond to FOIA requests and provide data transparency via the Police Open Data Portal (FCPOD). To view the presentation given to the Board, visit here.
Council for Economic Opportunity: Advancing a Holistic Strategy for Growth and AI Readiness
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The Council for Economic Opportunity (CEO), which brings together the Board of Supervisors, corporate leaders from major industries, and workforce and economic development partners, is working on aligning Fairfax County’s economic strategy around a broader lens of growth. Building a thriving economy isn’t just about attracting businesses or offering incentives; it’s about strengthening the foundations of long-term prosperity, especially education, workforce, and housing.
At the CEO’s recent briefing, County leaders highlighted momentum behind a new AI Economy Action Plan. They will be hiring a consulting firm and there has already been a strong response to the County’s request for proposal. The work will focus on three priorities:
- Consolidating regional AI research to strengthen decision-making
- Holding a public/private summit to align key stakeholders
- Launching an actionable framework to guide immediate steps and long-term strategies
County leadership underscored both the opportunity and responsibility that come with AI. As noted by regional and state partners, AI promises major productivity gains and high-paying jobs, but it also raises complex challenges around displacement and skills alignment. That’s why supporting our world-class education system and accelerating talent pipeline development remain central to Fairfax County’s approach, ensuring residents can access in-demand skills and employers can find the workforce they need.
At the same time, expanding housing supply, for current residents and for the workforce new employers will bring, will help ensure people can afford to work, live, and play in Fairfax County.
By taking this holistic approach, linking business investment, talent development, housing, and innovation, Fairfax County is building real momentum and positioning itself as a national leader in business investment, technology innovation, and AI-driven economic growth. Find out more about the meeting in Fairfax Now and in the official meeting materials.
| | Northern Virginia Transportation Commission
I'm proud to serve as a Commissioner of the Northern Virginia Transportation Commission (NVTC), a regional organization working with leaders of surrounding counties, cities and towns, to work on transit issues across northern Virginia. the Earlier this month we received a presentation about the Commuter Choice Program. Commuter Choice provides grants to localities funded by toll revenue. NVTC is seeking public comment on projects under consideration for I-66 Commuter Choice funds. | |
For some reporting on what's up for consideration in the Commuter Choice Program, read this article from Fairfax Now:
New bus funding likely for Fairfax, but proposed Tysons route doesn’t make cut
Virginia Railway Express
The Virginia Railway Express Operations Board, which I also serve on, will be meeting on March 20. Read about VRE's plans in this article from InsideNoVa:
From commuter service to full regional rail system: New Virginia Railway Express CEO lays out ambitious expansion plans
State Transportation Funding
My colleagues and I are watching state budget negotiations regarding additional transit funding, which we hope the General Assembly will agree to provide. Without that additional funding, it will be challenging for the County to fulfill its obligation towards supporting the Metro system.
VDOT 2026 Repaving Map Now Available
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The Virginia Department of Transportation has announced its plans for the repaving of roads around the Commonwealth for this year. Visit this map to see which roads in Fairfax County are up for repaving, and to check on the project status.
| | Upcoming Events and Opportunities | | |
🗳️ Now through April 18: Early Voting for the Special Election on the proposed Redistricting Constitutional Amendment (click for times & locations)
👥 March 17 at 9:30 a.m.: Board of Supervisors Meeting
📅 March 18 at 7:00 p.m.: Braddock District Council meeting with Special Guest Matt Adams, Division Director at Fairfax County's Solid Waste Management Division. Braddock Hall, 9002 Burke Lake Road
🗑️ March 21, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Free Document Shredding Events sponsored by Marian Homes at:
- St. Timothy Church 13807 Poplar Tree Rd Chantilly, VA 20151
- Good Shepherd Catholic Church, 8710 Mount Vernon Hwy, Alexandria, VA 22309
🎼 March 22 at 4:00 p.m.: Fairfax Choral Society's Afternoon with Mozart at Providence Presbyterian Church
📅 March 24 at 7:00 p.m.: Braddock District Budget Town Hall
with Supervisor Sizemore Heizer, County CFO Christina Jackson, and newly elected School Board Member Tom Dannan
🟢🟡March 25 at 12:00 p.m.: George Mason University Toastmasters Open House
🔩 March 26: Construction and Trades Job Fair
📋 March 30, 12:00 - 4:00 p.m.: Tax Relief Workshop at Braddock Hall, 9002 Burke Lake Road
🌱 April 1 at 10:00 a.m.: Lifetime Learning Institute NoVA Forum with Ecologist Charles Smith - Restoring Ecosystems with Native Plants
📜 April 18: History Commission Conference
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Fairfax County Offers Free Trees to Community Organizations
Application deadline is April 10, 2026
Community-based organizations in Fairfax County can apply to receive free trees for planting on private properties, through a program by Fairfax County’s Urban and Community Forestry Division (UCFD) of the Department of Public Works and Environmental Services.
The program, offered in partnership with Casey Trees, is designed to help community organizations in Fairfax County – such as volunteer groups, civic associations and faith-based organizations – obtain high-quality, professionally grown trees suitable for planting. Purchasing top-quality trees can be a challenge for these organizations.
This opportunity focuses on increasing tree cover in economically disadvantaged communities, which typically do not benefit from moderate to high tree cover.
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Visit the UCFD website to learn how to apply.
UCFD will prioritize applications for tree-planting sites within or adjacent to Fairfax County-designated highly vulnerable communities, as defined by the county’s One Fairfax policy and its associated Vulnerability Index. While planting in highly vulnerable communities will be prioritized, all community organizations are encouraged to apply for tree delivery, regardless of where tree planting is proposed.
The costs of the trees and delivery are covered by the county’s Tree Preservation and Planting Fund and will be offered at no cost to participating organizations.
About the Trees and Delivery
Available trees are professionally grown, landscape quality, and meet or exceed industry standards. Trees are sized 1.5” to 2.0” in caliper, 8-10 feet in height, and weigh approximately 130-150 pounds each. All trees comply with Fairfax County’s Natural Landscape Policy and are non-invasive, regionally native, ecologically appropriate species and cultivars.
Casey Trees’ Casey Tree Farm is recognized as one of the foremost nurseries in the region. Casey Trees will reserve and deliver trees directly to community organizations for planting projects in Fairfax County. Delivery includes loading and offloading at a single location designated in the application.
Learn about UCFD’s tree programs.
Additional Free Tree Opportunity: Seedling Giveaway
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The Fairfax County Tree Commission will be conducting a free tree seedling giveaway this spring to help our community restore and protect our environment and natural resources.
Join your neighbors Saturday, April 18th at the opening of the Burke Farmer’s Market and pick up a free tree. The bare-root seedlings are small and easy to plant and will be available on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last. A variety of trees will be available choose from - Black Gum, Red Oak, Willow Oak, Sweetbay Magnolia, and Eastern Redbud.
The Tree Commission will have experts on-hand to provide planting guidance and answer questions. Mark your calendars now and please join us!
Details: Saturday, April 18th, 2026
Burke Farmer’s Market (at the Burke VRE / Amtrak station)
5671 Robert’s Pkwy, Burke, VA 22015
8:00am – Noon (or until gone)
More info can be found on the Tree Commission website.
| Summer Internship Opportunity | |
The Fairfax County Disability Rights and Resources is accepting applications for the 2026 John Hudson Internship Program (JHIP).
The Fairfax Area Disability Services Board created this unique program to provide post-secondary students and recent graduates with disabilities a meaningful opportunity to gain valuable work experience while building professional skills in a supportive and inclusive environment. This summer’s paid internships are hosted within Information Technology Services in the Department of Land Development Services and Alcohol Safety Action Program in the Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court.
Here is what makes JHIP so special:
✨ Hands-On Experience: Work full time (40 hours per week) and take on meaningful projects.
✨ Professional Development: Gain skills you can take with you into your future career.
✨ Fair Compensation: Earn $19 per hour while making an impact.
✨ Flexible Start and End Dates: While we encourage interns to start in early June and complete their internships by early August, we understand flexibility is important and are happy to work with you.
A day in the life of a JHIP intern typically runs from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with an hour lunch break.
Complete applications include:
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John Hudson Internship Program application
- Two letters of recommendation (can be emailed or mailed separately)
- Resume
Application packets are due by Tuesday, March 31st at 11:59 p.m.
Please reach out to Ann.Kim@FairfaxCounty.Gov with any questions about the internship program.
| Avoiding Home Improvement Scams | |
Avoiding Home Improvement Scams and Top Ten Tips when hiring a contractor:
In Virginia, contractors are required to be licensed through the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR) Board for Contractors. Residents can verify a contractor’s license status using DPOR’s online License Lookup tool, which provides up-to-date information on licensing, classifications, and any disciplinary actions. On the “Search Text” box you can type the kind of contractor you are seeking. A list of registered contractors will pull up. If you have additional questions, you can call DPOR at (804) 367-8500.
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Top Ten Tips to make sure your contractor measures up
1. Hire only licensed contractors.
2. Verify license status online at www.dpor.virginia.gov/LicenseLookup
or call (804) 367-8511.
3. Check references + past work.
4. Get at least three estimates.
5. Insist on a written contract and don’t sign anything until you completely understand the terms.
6. Limit your deposit to 10% down or $1,000, whichever is less. (Up
to 30% of total contract value in case of custom-made items.)
7. Don’t let your payments get ahead of the work.
8. Don’t pay 100% of the bill until the work is 100% complete.
9. Never pay cash.
10. Keep a file of all payments and papers relating to your project (change orders, warranties, etc.).
More information: Board for Contractors (804) 367-8511
| Breaking Barriers, Building Futures: Honoring Women in Law Enforcement at FCPD | |
During Women’s History Month, the Fairfax County Police Department highlighted the women of FCPD who are breaking barriers, leading across the department, and helping shape the future of law enforcement in Fairfax County. Check it out at the FCPD News Blog.
Upcoming Community Events
The Braddock District is served by the West Springfield, Franconia, and Fair Oaks Police Stations.
March 18: Personal Safety Presentation (West Springfield)
March 18: Community Advisory Committee Meeting (Franconia)
March 19: Scams and Fraud Presentation (Fair Oaks)
For details on these events, visit this FCPD News Blog post.
| Services for Older Adults
in Fairfax County | |
Aging, Disability & Caregiver Resources Line
Through the Department of Family Services Adult and Aging Division includes programs and resources to support older adults, adults with disabilities and family caregivers, (703) 324-7948.
Senior Centers:
Neighborhood and Community Services offer social, educational and enrichment opportunities for adults ages 50 and over. Senior Center membership allows older adults to pursue hobbies, fitness goals, special interests (such as art, music, and technology), friendships and a wide variety of activities with their peers. Center programs and activities are as diverse as the needs and interests of the communities they serve. In addition to senior centers, NCS also offers older adult programming at some community centers and other community locations.
Senior Center Locations in and around the Braddock District
(for the full list of Senior Center locations, click here)
Little River Glen Senior Center
Address: 4001 Barker Court, Fairfax, VA 22032
Phone: 703-503-8703, TTY 711
Little River Glen Senior Center will be closed March 2, 2026 – July 2026 due to renovations at the center. Find where programs will move during the closure period.
Wakefield Senior Center at Audrey Moore RECenter
Address: 8100 Braddock Road, Annandale, VA 22003
Phone: (703) 321-3000, TTY 711
Operating Hours: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
Burke-Springfield Center for Active Adults
Address: 7491 Huntsman Blvd, Springfield, VA 22153
Phone: (703) 803-3879
Hours: Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.*
*Instructor-Led Classes Only
Visit the BSCAA website for more information.
Congregate Meal Program:
Senior Centers offer prepared lunches for participants and guests. Reservations must be made at least one day in advance at the center where you want to be served. The cost of lunch for all guests and for participants ages 50 to 59 is $8.50 per meal. The suggested meal donation (between $2 and $6) for participants ages 60 and over is based on a sliding scale depending on individual income.
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FASTRAN:
Trips of necessity, trips to senior centers, CRITICAL Medical Transportation. Fastran offers specialized transportation services for residents of Fairfax County and the Cities of Fairfax and Falls Church participating in human services programs.
Visit the County's Fastran website for more information and to apply for this service.
Technology Education for Older Adults:
Neighborhood and Community Services offers a wide variety of technology training courses at each of our Senior Centers. This initiative offers training on a variety of topics, including:
- Basic computer skills (internet use, email, etc.)
- The use of mobile devices (phones, tablets, etc.)
- Using Social Media (Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, etc.)
- Photography (taking and sharing photos as well as managing photo libraries)
- Accessing county services online
- and many more!
Classes are designed to meet the needs and interests expressed by the community at each center and schedules vary depending on the location.
Click here for more information.
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Adult Day Health:
Adult Day Health Care Centers are filled with energy, excitement and laughter! On any given day, a participant might enjoy a visit from a therapy animal, a karaoke party, a card game, a volleyball game or any of our dozens of activities, planned by highly experienced recreational therapists and nursing staff. Concurrent activities and events ensure there is something for everyone to enjoy throughout the day
Inclusive Services for Older Adults:
Inclusion services for older adults enable seniors with minor cognitive and physical disabilities to actively participate in the day-to-day activities at Fairfax County Senior Centers. The program is provided in partnership with ServiceSource – a local non-profit organization with extensive background in supporting older adults and adults with disabilities.
ElderLink’s Free Caregiver Support Programs
Caregiver Consultations
Need an in-depth conversation with a social worker about the caregiving needs of a loved one? Free one-hour consultations are available through ElderLink. Call 703-324-5374, TTY 711, to request a Caregiver Consultation.
Caregiver Virtual Support Call
ElderLink hosts a Virtual Support Call for Caregivers on the 2nd Tuesday of each month from 7:00-8:00PM. Focuses on a different topic each month and provides a convenient, safe space for caregivers to learn, share, and connect with one another. Registration is required. Register for the Caregiver Virtual Support Call.
Volunteer Respite
The Volunteer Respite Program is designed to give caregivers of older adults a temporary break from their caregiving duties. Trained volunteers provide up to 6 hours per month of companionship and supervision, no personal care provided. There are no income requirements for this program and no fee for service. Eligibility criteria include an assessment of the older adult’s physical/cognitive needs. For more information or to request a service, please call the ElderLink Intake Line at: 703-324-5374, TTY 711.
Home Care Registry
A list of companions and helpful information on hiring an in-home companion. Scroll down in the document to see the list of companions. You may call 703-324-7948 to have a hard copy of the registry mailed to you.
Home Repair for the Elderly Program for Elderly and Disabled Adults:
Homeowners that meet certain qualifications are eligible to apply for the Home Repair for the Elderly Program.
If you have any questions, please call the Home Repair for the Elderly Program at 703-246-5179 (TTY: 711) or email rha@fairfaxcounty.gov.
Sheperd’s Center – Fairfax/Burke
Serving residents in Fairfax, Burke, and South County, the Shepherd's Center provides transportation services as well as social and educational programs for older adults. For more information and to register, call (703) 323-4788.
| | Countywide Strategic Plan Cultural and Recreational Opportunity Dashboard | | |
The Cultural and Recreational Opportunity Dashboard is now available and presents information under the following topic areas referred to as indicators:
- Access to Local Arts, Sports and Cultural Opportunities
- Satisfaction with Local Arts, Sports and Cultural Opportunities
- Awareness and Appreciation of Diverse Cultures
- Representation of Diverse Cultures
These indicators contain three headline metrics related to living near cultural or recreational centers, availability of community activities and average visitors to centers. The dashboard is designed to:
- Inform residents and stakeholders
- Monitor progress over time
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Identify any demographic or geographic disparities among residents
- Guide community leaders, practitioners and advocates in making data-driven decisions
Overall, the data included in this dashboard help to evaluate the goals of access to, availability of and participation in cultural and recreational opportunities.
The Cultural and Recreational Opportunity Dashboard is the ninth dashboard now published to support the implementation of the Fairfax Countywide Strategic Plan. There will be a dashboard for each of the 10 Community Outcome Areas.
| | Follow Supervisor Rachna Sizemore Heizer on
Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin, Bluesky, and 'X.' | | | | |
