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As many of you know, Fairfax County is home to around 80,000 federal employees and over 3,800 federal contractors. Data from the Northern Virginia Regional Commission show that the greatest concentration of federal civilian workers in Fairfax County as a percentage of the total workforce is in the Franconia and Mount Vernon Districts. I am acutely aware of the toll this is taking on our residents. On top of present job losses is the possibility that federal agencies could relocate from the National Capital Region. As someone who worked in economic development for decades, the historic job growth and significant economic investment in Fairfax County is directly connected to our proximity to the federal government and the contractors supporting those agencies.
Concentration of federal civilian jobs across Fairfax County as a percentage of total jobs by zip code:
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Our federal workers and contractor base are vital to the Commonwealth due to the revenue generated by the state income tax. In fact, 22% of Virginia's taxable income comes from Fairfax County residents. The Board of Supervisors called on Governor Youngkin to protect and support Virginia's workforce. Read Chairman Jeff McKay's letter to Governor Youngkin.
In regard to legislative activity on the state level, the 2025 General Assembly (GA) session ended on February 22, 2025. Braddock District Supervisor and Chair of the Legislative Committee James Walkinshaw presented the draft final legislative report on the General Assembly. The Board meeting highlighted two legislative initiatives from this year. The first amends the reckless driving statute to include exhibition driving and prohibits increasingly dangerous behaviors, like the street racing that occurred in Tysons in October 2024. Exhibition driving has increased in Fairfax County and the National Capital Region at-large. The bipartisan bills not only provided definitions and penalties for exhibition driving, but also definitions and penalties for passengers and spectators. The bill passed the House and Senate.
The second legislative initiative authorizes localities in Northern Virginia to create pilot programs utilizing noise abatement monitoring systems for the purpose of recording and enforcing exhaust system violations, which would expire on July 1, 2027. Modifying a car's exhaust to make it louder and more aggressive than the original muffler is illegal in Virginia, but enforcement has been a challenge. The bill makes the operator of a vehicle liable for a civil penalty not to exceed $100. It passed the House and Senate.
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Later in the meeting, I presented one announcement and one board matter:
The banner image in this week's Lusk Report is by Eric Steiner, who won Honorable Mention in the Adult category of the Friends of Huntley Meadows Park Photo Contest.
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It is both an honor and a privilege for me to serve as your representative on the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. Thank you for the opportunity to serve. | |
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Rodney L. Lusk
Franconia District Supervisor
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If this email was forwarded to you, consider signing up for my email list to receive newsletters and other important announcements. | |
Fairfax County Executive Bryan Hill presented the FY 2026 Advertised Budget to the Board of Supervisors on Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2025. The meeting can be viewed on demand, with captions in English or los subtítulos en español. | |
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FY 2026 Budget Timeline:
- March 18: Board of Supervisors Advertises FY 2026 tax rate
- March 18: Board of Supervisors Advertises FY 2025 Third Quarter Review
- April 1: Franconia District Budget Town Hall on Channel 16
- April 22: School Board Presents FCPS Budget to Board of Supervisors
- April 22-24: Board of Supervisors holds public hearings on FY 2026 Budget
- May 6: Board of Supervisors marks-up FY 2026 Budget
- May 13: Board of Supervisors adopts FY 2026 Budget
- May 22: School Board adopts FY 2026 Approved Budget
- July 1: FY 2026 Budget Year begins
The complete FY 2026 Advertised Budget Plan and the FY 2026-FY 2030 Capital Improvement Program are available at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/budget.
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Federal Workforce Resource Hub | |
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Fairfax County is home to around 80,000 federal employees and over 3,800 federal contractors. This page serves as a resource to help navigate current and future issues for residents, government employees, active military/veterans, contractors, nonprofits and businesses who may be affected by actions, changes or disruptions to federal services or employment.
Key Updates:
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Black History Month Celebration at Hybla Valley Community Center - February 28 | |
I appreciated the opportunity to speak at the Hybla Valley Community Center Black History Month Celebration. The event also featured speakers on the history of Gum Springs and Hybla Valley and a performance from Live to Love Family. | |
Volunteer Fire School 027 Graduation - March 2 | |
(From left) Assistant Chief Eric Craven, Fire Chief John Butler, Assistant Chief John Walser, Assistant Chief Tracey Reed | |
Christopher Chun (center) and Volunteer Chief Stephen Chen | |
I was honored to attend the graduation of Volunteer Fire School Class 027. Graduate Christopher Chun will serve the Franconia District at Fire Station 05. | |
Cub Scout Visit - March 6 | |
I enjoyed speaking with the scouts about my job as an elected official and the importance of public service. | |
Slam the Scam at Greenspring - March 7 | |
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March 2 to 8 is National Consumer Protection Week. The Fairfax County Department of Cable and Consumer Services organized events across the county to educate residents about their consumer rights and how to identify and report scams. At the Greenspring Senior Living Community, Fairfax County was joined by representatives from state and federal agencies for Slam the Scam.
Steps you can take during National Consumer Protection Week:
- Visit the Fairfax County Scams webpage to learn more about recent scams, including the unpaid toll fees scam.
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Register your home or mobile phone for the Do Not Call Registry for free. After you register, other types of organizations may still call you, such as charities, political groups, debt collectors and surveys. To learn more, read the FAQs.
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Check the Virginia Department of Treasury website to see if you have unclaimed property (bank accounts, refunds, deposits, dividends, and uncashed checks).
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One of the best parts of my job as Supervisor is getting to know you in your community. I would like to attend your next homeowner, civic, or citizen association meeting to share information and hear what's important to you. If there is a community association meeting or event you would like me to attend, please contact my office at 703-971-6262. | |
March is Women's History Month | |
Providence District Supervisor Dalia Palchik presenting the Women's History Month proclamation to Helen Cole, Vice Chair and Commissioner of the Fairfax County Commission for Women | |
Women’s History Month, observed every March, is a celebration of women’s contributions to history, culture and society and has been observed annually since 1987. In honor and recognition of Women’s History Month, Fairfax County is sharing a few stories of women leaders throughout Fairfax County as well as events in March that highlight women’s contributions to society. Read more. | |
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The Fairfax County Commission for Women (CFW) advises the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors on policies and initiatives to promote gender equality, eliminate violence against women, and honor women and girls in Fairfax County.
Alesia Taylor-Boyd has served as the Franconia District representative on the Fairfax County Commission for Women since May 2022. A longtime Franconia resident, Alesia retired from the Federal Government after 32 years of service. Her journey to the Commission began one morning when she stopped by Supervisor Lusk’s office for some information and unexpectedly left with an opportunity to join the Commission as the District representative.
The Commission for Women focuses on promoting the equality of women and girls, values that Alesia has upheld throughout her career and personal life. The Commission’s work has allowed Alesia to engage with community leaders, constituents, and especially women and girls, through a variety of initiatives, including supporting mental health community events, Women’s History Month activities, and collaborations with other local partners.
In May 2024, Alesia volunteered to represent the Commission for Women at the One Fairfax Community Roundtable. She plans to continue dedicating her time, energy, and expertise to support the Franconia District, while helping women and girls thrive in today’s challenging environment.
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Burgundy Farm Country Day School, Inc.
RZ 2024-FR-00007 Concurrent with SE 2024-FR-00017
Read the staff report
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Planning Commission Action: Recommended Approval on February 5, 2025
Board of Supervisors Public Hearing: March 18, 2025
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Ramada Family, LLC
PCA 2006-LE-010
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Rendering of proposed child care center at 6320 Grovedale Dr. | |
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Planning Commission Public Hearing: April 9, 2025
Board of Supervisors Public Hearing: Not scheduled
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Proposed Plan Amendment Changes for the Franconia Triangle | |
Illustrative Overlay with Government Center Concept Plan | |
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Planning Commission Public Hearing: April 9, 2025
Board of Supervisors Public Hearing Expected: May 13, 2025
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Kingstowne Parcels M&N
RZPA-2024-FR-00030/PCA-84-L-020-28/CDPA-84-L-020-09/FDPA-84-L-020-02-17
| Rendering of proposed Kingstowne pedestrian plaza | |
The Application proposes to retain the approved maximum of 646 multifamily units, albeit in a slightly modified 761,746 SF building, and remove the commercial use on the ground floor of the structure. This Application would eliminate the requirement, (but leave open the option), to provide up to 4,500 SF of non-residential uses on the ground level.
The Applicant proposes to remove the ice rink and associated ancillary building from the pedestrian plaza.
Planning Commission Public Hearing: May 14, 2025
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What do you see for the future of Fairfax?
The county’s new Plan Forward project is an important opportunity for residents to ensure updated Comprehensive Plan policies such as land use, housing, sustainability, and transportation enhance the quality of life for everyone in Fairfax. Outreach Phase II of the community engagement plan is underway. Topical trend reports and research pages have been posted for review. Read the reports on the Plan Forward project page.
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The Virginia Department of Transportation is seeking feedback on a STARS (Strategically Targeted Affordable Roadway Solutions) study assessing potential safety, operational, transit and bicycle/pedestrian improvements along the two-and-a-half mile stretch of South Van Dorn Street (Route 613) between Telegraph Road (Route 611) and the Alexandria city limits.
Within the study limits, South Van Dorn Street traffic counts range from 14,000 to 37,000 vehicles a day. South Van Dorn Street has a 35 mph posted speed limit between Telegraph Road and Franconia Road (Route 644); a 45 mph posted speed limit between Franconia Road and I-95/I-495 (Capital Beltway); and a 35 mph posted speed limit between I-95/I-495 and the Alexandria city limits.
Take the STARS Study survey through March 14: https://bit.ly/3XouAa9
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The Fairfax County Park Authority is launching the Parks Count! 2026 Parks Needs Assessment to evaluate park and recreation needs across the county. Your feedback will help guide improvements to amenities, facilities and programs for the next five years.
The study will utilize research, trends analysis, community input and surveys to help FCPA meet the diverse park and recreation needs of everyone in Fairfax County. Along with the Parks, Recreation, Open Space, and Access Strategy (PROSA), the 2026 Needs Assessment will help shape decision-making for park investments and improvements, including the 2026 park bond.
Your voice matters! Help shape the future of our parks by attending an upcoming public meeting. A virtual public meeting will take place on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. This online session is a convenient way to learn more about the project, share your thoughts and ask questions—all from the comfort of your home.
For a more interactive experience, attend the In-Person Workshop on Saturday, March 22, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to noon at the Franconia Rec Center. This open house-style, family-friendly event will feature a guided nature walk, activities with the Wonder Wagon, a sensory-friendly area for children and a Rec Center pass promotion. Come engage in hands-on activities and discussions to help shape the future of our parks.
Visit the Parks Count! Our Parks, Our Future webpage for the latest updates, to register for the upcoming events and to learn more about participating in the 2026 Needs Assessment survey.
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The Board of Supervisors recognized March 9-15 as Flood Awareness Week. Flooding, exacerbated by inclement weather and climate change, remains one of the most common and costly natural disasters in the United States. Bordered on the East by the Potomac River, and retaining many streams and creeks within its jurisdiction, Fairfax County is susceptible to both major tidal and event flooding.
A new residential program in Fairfax County, the Flood Mitigation Assistance Program (FMAP), reimburses 50% of eligible floodproofing project costs—up to $5,000 per property. To apply, residents must complete an eligible project, retain documentation and receipts, and apply through the Northern Virginia Soil and Water Conservation District (NVSWCD). If permits are required, they must be submitted before reimbursement. For more information on FMAP eligibility, approved projects, and the application process, visit: www.fairfaxcounty.gov/soil-water-conservation/fmap
Do you live near a river or stream, or deal with drainage issues on your property? Local experts from Arlington, Fairfax and Alexandria share how you can determine your risk in this webinar, and how to make your property more flood resilient in this webinar. Here are some other key messages to takeaway this Flood Awareness Week;
- Know your risk, prepare an emergency kit, and formulate a plan in the event of an emergency.
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Find out if you live in a flood plain or other flood prone area using the Virginia Flood Risk Information System.
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Do not drive through flooded roads. Turn Around Don’t Drown.
- Anywhere it can rain, it can flood. People living in low-lying areas, near water or downstream from a dam are at particular risk.
- One inch of water in a home can cause $25,000 in damage.
- Standard homeowners and renters insurance policies do not cover damage from floods.
- If you have a flood insurance policy, consider adding coverage for your home’s contents – typically, flood insurance policies cover only the structure.
- A new flood insurance policy takes 30 days to go into effect. It’s important to purchase coverage well in advance of a disaster.
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Lights Out, Fairfax!
Twice a year, billions of birds migrate hundreds of miles between wintering and breeding grounds, facing many threats. Scientists have found most migrate at night, using stars to navigate. In Northern Virginia, 100 to 160 million birds migrate each spring and fall. Unfortunately, bright lights on tall buildings and city skyglow attract them, leading to window collisions or exhaustion from circling illuminated structures. At dawn, they face further urban dangers.
Several organizations, including the Northern Virginia Bird Alliance (NVBA), Nature Forward, and Friends of Huntley Meadows, have partnered with DarkSky NOVA to launch the “Turn Lights Out for Birds” campaign. Running from March 15 to May 31, it urges residents and businesses to reduce unnecessary nighttime lighting. Research on a Chicago high-rise found this simple step reduced bird deaths by 80% while cutting energy use and costs.
The Light Pollution Monitoring Kit, also known as the Dark Skies Kit, empowers citizens to take action against light pollution by providing them with the tools needed to measure and monitor light levels in their communities. Reserve a Light Pollution Monitoring Kit from the Fairfax County Public Library's Library of Things.
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Stuff the Bus Benefitting United Community | |
My office is collecting menstrual products for Joyful Hands, and food and household goods for ECHO. Thank you in advance for your generosity. | |
March 11, virtual The Entrepreneurship 101 workshop is intended for start-up entrepreneurs who want to launch or grow a business in Fairfax County. The topics that will be covered include doing business in Fairfax County, business registration, business and property taxes, financing programs, licensing and certifications, local, state, and federal business resources, and other general topics related to starting and growing a business. Free, registration required. Register. | |
NCS Summer Camp Registration Begins March 11 | |
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The Department of Neighborhood and Community Services offers a variety of summer camp options for youth and teens throughout Fairfax County. Register early and secure your spot for a summer of fun activities, new friendships and lasting memories!
NCS camps are offered from June 16 – August 15, 2025; registration start dates, program dates, eligibility and costs vary by camp/location. All programs offer reduced fee opportunities. Learn more.
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Meet the Faces of 1 Artist | |
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The Southeast Fairfax Development Corportation (SFDC) invites you to a special Wine & Cheese Night at Nepenthe Gallery to celebrate the power of public art in transforming the Richmond Highway Corridor!
This free event will showcase Michael Alfano, the artist behind the Faces of 1 sculptures, and explore how art and placemaking strengthen our community. Enjoy fine wine, delicious cheese, and engaging conversations with local leaders, including myself, as we discuss the impact of public art and future placemaking initiatives.
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Location: Nepenthe Gallery (7918 Fort Hunt Rd)
- Date: Thursday, March 13th
- Time: 6:00 – 7:30 PM
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Volunteer Income Tax Assistance | |
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If you or your family earned less than $67,000 in 2024, you may qualify for the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program. VITA is a national program sponsored by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to help families maximize their tax returns and avoid the fees businesses charge to prepare taxes.
In-person VITA services are available at several sites in Northern Virginia. Walk-ins are welcome, no appointments are needed. Learn more.
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10 Fairfax County Accomplishments You May Have Missed in 2024 | |
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Fairfax County has released its 2025 Annual Report, detailing the numerous ways county leaders and our agencies made decisions on the county’s priorities and the projects to pursue over the past year. Released concurrently with the county executive’s FY 2026 Advertised Budget presentation, the report is the county’s update on progress made in 2024 toward meeting goals in the Countywide Strategic Plan.
The Countywide Strategic Plan focuses on 10 Community Outcome Areas that represent the issues of greatest importance to the community: cultural and recreational opportunities, economic opportunity, safety and security, effective and efficient government, mobility and transportation, lifelong education and learning, housing and neighborhood livability, environment and energy, healthy communities, and empowerment and support for residents facing vulnerability. Read about ten County accomplishments you may have missed.
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All proceeds support Kingstowne Library (6500 Landsdowne Centre). | |
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Your library offers more than just books and digital resources. The Library of Things is Fairfax County Public Library's (FCPL) collection of non-traditional library items. It allows library customers the opportunity to check out a variety of items that they perhaps financially wouldn’t be able to purchase on their own, don’t have room for in their home or want to decide if it’s something they want to buy one day.
Some examples of what library users can check out are:
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Board games of all types and for all ages, from classics like chess to new favorites like Catan and Codenames.
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Connect Kits which consist of a Chromebook and a Wi-Fi hotspot device for computing on-the-go.
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Early literacy LaunchPads are tablets pre-loaded with stories and games at different reading and learning levels for young readers.
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Family History Kits include a set of cards with interview prompts, a digital voice recorder, and instructions on how to get started gathering your family history in English, Spanish and Korean.
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March 8, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Stuff the Bus to benefit United Community, Giant (6800 Richmond Highway)
March 9: Deadline to complete Paint It, Fairfax! Richmond Highway Survey (Take the survey)
March 17: Application deadline for Route 1 Community Farm (Apply)
March 29: ConnorStrong You Are Not Alone 5k (Register for the event)
March 31: Deadline to apply for a Fairfax County Redevelopment and Housing Authority (FCRHA) academic scholarship (Learn more)
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