View as Webpage

Friday, April 11, 2025

Dear Friend,

It can't be ignored that reductions in the federal workforce will negatively impact the local economy. As indicated by the graphics later in the Lusk Report, there will be effects on tax revenue and federal contractor positions. I sympathize with those who have been separated from their jobs. We on the Board of Supervisors are committed to supporting our residents with resources to assist with finding new employment, obtaining new skills, and addressing other needs such as counseling and/or emergency financial assistance for expenses. Local and regional partners are working together and sharing resources to help our affected residents mitigate these impacts.

On Tuesday, April 8, the Board of Supervisors Economic Initiatives Committee heard two presentations on this topic. The Fairfax County Economic Development Authority hired Strategic Impact Advisors to study three scenarios of federal government workforce reduction: 10%, 20%, and 30%. The study used a ratio of 2.48 federal government contract employees for every federal government employee (Source: Brookings Center for Effective Public Management). For example, a 20% workforce reduction is estimated to cause a total job loss of 82,514 employees, $11.4 billion in employee compensation, and a total output loss of $20.1 billion. As an economic development professional for over 20 years in Fairfax County, the numbers are sobering.

Virginia Career Works has created a Dislocated Federal Workers and Contractors webpage to provide information about employment opportunities and assistance. The Northern Virginia Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) offers a comprehensive range of services consisting of workforce development activities benefiting job seekers and employers. Learn more about accessing employment and training assistance through WIOA Programs by attending a virtual or in-person orientation session or filling out the online Interest Form. Watch the Committee meeting on demand.

Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments Meeting

April 9, 2025

(From left) COG Vice Board Chair Charles Allen (District of Columbia), COG Board Chair Rodney Lusk (Fairfax County, VA), and COG Board Vice Chair Reuben Collins, II (Charles County, MD)

Economic impacts of the federal employment reductions on the region were also addressed at the monthly meeting of the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (COG) Board of Directors. The board was briefed on how the new administration and reduction of federal workers is impacting the private sector, restaurant industry, and overall economy in the region.

On Tuesday, April 8, there were also meetings of the Board of Supervisors Public Safety and Security Committee and Transportation Committee. During the Public Safety and Security Committee meeting, Independent Police Auditor Richard Schott presented the 2024 Annual Report of the Office of the Independent Police Auditor.

Mr. Scott made five recommendations to the FCPD, including one in response to an officer involved shooting in July 2022 of an individual in crisis. The recommendation is as follows: "Continually stress to all officers the importance of utilizing time to their advantage, particularly when responding to calls for service involving people in crisis." He spoke on the need for 24/7 coverage of the Co-Responder Program, which I fully support. I am proud to have authored the Board Matter that led to the creation of the Co-Responder Program, which pairs a police officer with a trained clinician to assist 911 calls involving individuals with mental health and/or substance abuse disorder.

Next, the 2024 Annual Report of the Police Civilian Review Panel (PCRP) was presented by former Chair Cheri Belkowitz. The PCRP reviews completed Internal Affairs Bureau (IAB) investigations, provides citizens with an independent avenue for making a complaint against the police, and makes recommendations regarding FCPD policies and practices. Watch the Committee meeting on demand

Police Civilian Review Panel Meeting at the Workforce Innovation Skills Hub (WISH)

After the winter storm event on January 6, 2025, I heard from many of you that snow removal by the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) was not done in the timely and effective manner that residents expect. The Board of Supervisors asked VDOT for a presentation to the Transportation Committee on how the process could be improved for future winter storm events. The VDOT presentation occurred on April 8, 2025.

VDOT has a "priority order" for roads:

• Interstates: I-66, I-95, I-395, and I-495 made passable, then bare pavement

• High-volume roads: Routes 1, 7, 50, 286, etc. made passable, then bare pavement

• Subdivision roads: Made passable, will not be bare pavement and generally do not receive chemical treatment

Additional Priorities:

• Shoulders, 24 park-and-ride lots, and access to Metro Stations and transit centers 

I heard from a resident who is blind and could not access the Fairfax Connector bus stop because VDOT had piled up snow in front of the stop. I heard from residents who had snow piled up in their neighborhood by VDOT after they hired a private contractor to remove the snow on their roads. My colleagues on the Board also shared stories from their residents. I appreciate the briefings from VDOT, but my colleagues on the Board and I believe that there is much more to be done by VDOT in terms of planning and implementing improved contractor quality control and communication. The Board also asked VDOT to come back with a recommendation for a new definition of "passable." The presence of ice is not safe for drivers, even if the road meets the current definition. Watch the Committee meeting on demand.

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.

Rodney L. Lusk

Franconia District Supervisor

If this email was forwarded to you, consider signing up for my email list to receive newsletters and other important announcements.

The complete FY 2026 Advertised Budget Plan and the FY 2026-FY 2030 Capital Improvement Program are available at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/budget. Ways to provide feedback on the budget can be found here.

FY 2026 Budget Timeline:

• 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

Fairfax County is home to around 80,000 federal employees and thousands of federal contractors. The Franconia District is amongst the districts with the highest percentage of federal employees and contractors. Recognizing that federal employees have experienced separation from their jobs, through no fault of their own, the county has developed this Federal Workers Resource Hub to help navigate current and future issues for those who may be affected by actions, changes or disruptions to federal services or employment. Please share this information with those you know who may benefit from it.

Key Updates

• Northern Virginia Regional Job Fair May 9 at the Government Center
• NOVA Launches $1 Million Training Opportunity for Recently Unemployed Federal Workers and Contractors
• GWU Supports Federal Workforce Amid Downsizing with Tuition Discounts and Career Pivot Webinar
• Regional Council of Governments Launches Resources, Events and Data Site

Capital Area Food Bank Free Food Distributions for Affected Workers

Capital Area Food Bank pop-up distributions will offer boxes of shelf-stable pantry items and fresh produce twice a week, on Thursdays from 5 – 7 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 – 11 a.m., or until supplies last each day. Learn more.

Are You a Former Fed or a Transitioning Employee Wondering What’s Next?

Fairfax CORE can help you launch your entrepreneurial journey!

Join many former federal employees and contractors to transfer your government experience into a thriving business. These resources can help you explore opportunities and take the next step. Check back as resources and events will be updated.

Guides to Explore and Start

• Exploring if entrepreneurship is right for you? Check out modules to review your readiness and define your ideas through SCORE’s Startup Roadmap series.
• Ready for more details? The Fairfax CORE Business Startup Guide provides information for each step of starting your business, from planning to permitting to launching.

Resources for Counseling and Direct Assistance

• The Fairfax CORE Resource Navigator connects you directly with expert assistance based on specific business needs, industry, stage, and more. Check out the more than 120 resource providers in our region that can offer you free, specialized assistance.

Events for Learning and Networking

• The Fairfax CORE Events Calendar provides free and low-cost education, training, and events across a range of topics to help you explore, start and grow your business. 

Tuesday, April 15th: From Fed to Founder: Navigating the Entrepreneurial Leap

The Accelerate Breakfast program connects local companies with capital investment. Over 100 companies applied for 5 spots to present in front of investors on April 11.

The 5 companies selected to present:

• Kubanda Cryotherapy, Inc. (Baltimore, MD): Kubanda Cryotherapy provides a simple, point-of-care, minimally invasive tumor treatment for pets.
• FraudOptics (Washington D.C.): FraudOptics gathers and validates off-chain data through a broad range of sources to aggregate unique information about blockchain users, cryptocurrency frauds, and their linked digital wallets. CEO George "Ren" McEachern is a former FBI Supervisory Agent.
• NOVI (Arlington, VA): NOVI significantly reduces the cost of space-based data, insights, and intelligence through on-orbit edge-processing and transmission of small amounts of "useful" information directly to the end-user.
• Scout Space, Inc. (Reston, VA): Scout Space Inc. is a leading in-space observation service provider focused on space security and comprehensive Space Domain Awareness (SDA).
• Spectrohm (Tysons Corner, VA): Spectrohm's unique technology offers safe, accurate, high-speed inspection and material identification for a wide range of markets and applications.

Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department Recruit School #164 Graduation Ceremony - April 4

Giving welcome remarks

With probationary firefighter Patrick Lee (center) and Assistant Chief John Walser

I was honored to speak at the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department Recruit School #164 graduation ceremony in my role as Chair of the Public Safety and Security Committee. Probationary Firefighter Patrick Lee will serve the Franconia District at Fire Station 22. Learn about joining FCFRD.

Pioneer Baseball Opening Day and Proclamation Presentation - April 4

I attended the opening day ceremony of Pioneer Baseball at Beulah Park to deliver welcome remarks and present the 12U Cal Ripken Trail Team with a proclamation in honor of their victory in the 2024 Babe Ruth League Virginia State Championship. Photo credit: DJ Glisson

Little Hunting Creek Clean-Up - April 5

(From left) Senator Scott Surovell, Franconia District Supervisor Rodney Lusk, Delegate Paul Krizek, student volunteers

Volunteers from United Community

Volunteers collected over 60 bags of trash



Student volunteers from Hayfield Secondary School

At the annual Little Hunting Creek clean-up, more than 50 volunteers collected 60 bags of trash, as well as shopping carts, tires, a bicycle, and 10 jugs of motor oil. Thank you to Senator Scott Surovell for organizing this event.

Historic Huntley Art and Architecture Day - April 5

At Art and Architecture Day, I took a tour of Historic Huntley and watched artists paint en plein air (outside).

Groveton Civic Association Meeting - April 7

I appreciated the opportunity to speak with the Groveton Civic Association about the FY 2026 Advertised Budget and specific concerns in their neighborhood. If you would like me to attend a meeting of your homeowners or civic association, please contact my office.

Historic Huntley Tea - April 10

Thank you to the Friends of Historic Huntley for inviting me to enjoy a historic tea. We had a very productive conversation about the importance of protecting Fairfax County's natural and cultural resources.

Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments

Capital Caucus Reception - April 10

I introduced my colleague and friend, Delegate Mark Sickles

(From left) Virginia State Delegate Mark Sickles, Maryland State Senator Nick Charles, DC Council Chair Phil Mendelson

The Capital Caucus Reception brought together state legislative members, who represent the entire metropolitan Washington region. Virginia Delegate Mark Sickles, Maryland Senator Brian Feldman, and District of Columbia Council Chair Phil Mendelson briefed the group on outcomes from their 2025 legislative sessions and ongoing priorities. All of the speakers noted the importance of working more closely together to respond to the impacts of federal workforce cuts and partner on a plan to diversify the region’s economy and ensure long-term resilience and growth, a top priority for the COG Board.

Joyful Hands Menstrual Product Drive - April 11

Thank you to everyone who donated to our Women's History Month menstrual product drive, benefitting Joyful Hands.

One of the best parts of my job as Supervisor is getting to know you in your communities. 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.

April is Autism Acceptance Month in Fairfax County. About 1 in 36 children has been identified with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Fairfax County has numerous resources for those living with autism spectrum disorder and their families, from educational opportunities to employment.

Click the image to view the two-page flyer.

Community Forum on Accessible Transportation Topics

Join Fairfax Area Disability Services Board (FA-DSB) on Monday, April 21, 2025, from 7-8:30 p.m. for a virtual community forum to identify systemic gaps in service and/or barriers Fairfax County, City of Falls Church, and City of Fairfax residents with disabilities face with accessible transportation. Register.

Click on the image to view the flyer.

Upon Captain Andrew Smuck’s retirement after 25 years of service with the Fairfax County Police Department, Captain Jonathan Bobel has joined the Franconia District Station as the Assistant Commander.

Captain Bobel has been with FCPD for 25 years. He began his career at the Mount Vernon District Station, first in Patrol and then with their Neighborhood Patrol Unit. After his initial assignment at Mount Vernon, he was selected to the Street Crimes Unit which is part of the Organized Crime and Narcotics Division. After five years as a tactical undercover detective with Street Crimes he was selected for a long-term undercover assignment with the Criminal Intelligence Unit. After two years in that capacity, Captain Bobel was promoted to Sergeant and was assigned to the Mount Vernon District Station as a first line supervisor. Over the next seven years, he supervised several investigative units to include the Criminal Intelligence Unit, the West Springfield and Mason District Stations’ Criminal Investigations Squads, and the Major Crimes Bureau Robbery Squad. In 2024, Captain Bobel was promoted from Lieutenant to Captain and assigned as the Assistant Commander of the Major Crimes Bureau. 

Manufactured Housing Roundtable Second Meeting

Harmony Place and Audubon Estates

The second meeting of the Manufactured Housing Roundtable was held on Monday, April 7. Staff from the Department of Planning and Development (DPD) presented on the Comprehensive Plan and Zoning Ordinances. Representatives from all 7 manufactured housing communities learned how their individual communities were zoned and planned. The Franconia District is home to 2 manufactured housing communities, Harmony Place and Audubon Estates. The Manufactured Housing website has been created for residents to more easily find resources and relevant information.

The Department of Planning and Development held a public meeting on Monday, April 7, to review one Site-Specific Plan Amendment (SSPA) nomination in the Franconia District. View the presentation.

CPN-2025-IV-FR-006 

6404 Telegraph Road

Planning Commission Workshop Dates: Thursday, May 15 and 22, 7:30 p.m.

Franconia Triangle Comprehensive Plan Amendment

SSPA 2023-IV-2S

Planning Commission Public Hearing: April 30, 2025

Board of Supervisors Public Hearing Expected: May 13, 2025  

Kingstowne Parcels M&N

PCA-84-L-020-28

Planning Commission Public Hearing: May 14, 2025

Ramada Family, LLC

PCA 2006-LE-010

Board of Supervisors Public Hearing: Not scheduled

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.

At the Lewis Leadership Program 2024 Student Exhibition, I met two of the founders of La Liguita, an entirely student-run soccer league. I was impressed by their initiative and dedication to academic excellence. All participants must be up to date on assignments, maintain good grades, and prioritize attendance. FCPS News recently published a profile on La Liguita, which has been excerpted below. Read the full article.

At Lewis High School, where soccer reigns king, a group of varsity players saw an opportunity to widen access to the sport they love.

Aware that the highly competitive varsity team they play on is a pipe dream for many, seniors Andres Roca, Luis Guzman, and Andres Mendoza began an alternative program open for all.

It has now become a fully fledged, year-round league called La Liguita (the small league). In addition to the players, there is a roster of students helping behind the scenes.

At John Lewis High School, soccer is a big part of the school culture.

But there’s a catch: students who want to play or assist one of the eight teams that compete during advisory must be up-to-date on assignments and maintain good grades and attendance.

League President Andres Roca, a senior, recalls how the idea began two years ago and quickly grew in popularity.

Around 150 students — approximately 10% of the Lewis population — are now involved in the enterprise.

“We started with 15 kids who just wanted to get out and play,” explained Andres. “By last year, it had become so large that we wanted to put some thought into organizing ourselves into a league so it wasn’t just chaos.”

Learning about La Liguita at the Lewis Leadership 2024 Student Exhibition

Our Schools, Our Future - A Community Conversation

A series of Community Conversations with FCPS Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid are being held as an opportunity for you to share your thoughts and ask questions about FCPS. Dr. Reid will be at Mount Eagle Elementary School (6116 N Kings Hwy) on Monday, April 21, from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Childcare and language interpretation services will be provided. Register.

April 13-19, 2025, is National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, honoring 9-1-1 call takers, dispatchers, and communications professionals for their calm and compassionate responses to emergency calls and texts. Public safety telecommunicators serve as the vital and often unseen link between residents and emergency services. In addition to handling emergency calls, Fairfax County’s public safety telecommunicators also respond to hundreds of thousands of non-emergency calls annually, providing assistance, information and reassurance to our residents. 

Unified Response Day is a chance for people of all abilities to engage with first responders in a safe setting and practice real-world scenarios like traffic stops, medical emergencies, and fire rescues to build understanding and support.

The Fairfax County Park Authority is hosting an open hire for camp positions at Huntley Meadows Park. Job seekers are invited to the open hire on Saturday, April 19 from 1 to 3 p.m. at Huntley Meadows Park in Alexandria. Stop by anytime to meet staff from Huntley Meadows Park, apply for a position, interview on site and potentially walk away with a job!

Huntley Meadows Park is home to a nationally significant historic house, majestic forests, wildflower-speckled meadows and vast wetlands bursting with life. Join our team as a camp counselor or director and work in a fun, upbeat atmosphere, surrounded by nature and scenic views.

Minimum qualifications and requirements for camp staff:

Must be 18 years of age for camp counselor and camp director positions.

• Agree to a criminal background check and have never been convicted of a felony or a misdemeanor related to abuse, neglect, exploitation or other barrier crimes.
• Attend all mandatory staff development and training.
• Be able to obtain first aid and CPR certifications.

Summer Benefits: Summer employees will have access to use any of FCPA’s Rec Centers and may be eligible for a $500 signing bonus*. Additional benefits include opportunities for advancement and a competitive salary ranging from $16.87 to $19.75 per hour, depending on position and experience.

Can’t make it to the Open Hire? No worries! View job ads and apply now for camp positions at the Jobs webpage.

View all employment opportunities with FCPA on the Jobs webpage.

For more information, contact the Park Authority at FCPAJOBS@fairfaxcounty.gov or call 703-324-8792.

*Terms, conditions, and applicable tax apply.

Celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Huntley Meadows Park and 200th Anniversary of Historic Huntley with events this spring!

Click the image to view the flyer.

April 12: Hybla Valley Community Center Spring Fling

April 16: Deadline to apply for the Love Like Adam Scholarship

April 18: Deadline to apply for the Inova Annual Community Health Opportunities Grant Program (Apply today)

April 20: Deadline to complete Olander and Margaret Banks Park survey (PublicInput)

April 21: Deadline to apply for Fairfax Founders Fund (Learn more)

April 26: Shred and Share event benefitting ECHO (Flyer)

April 28: Deadline to apply for the Mt Vernon Springfield Chamber of Commerce scholarship (Learn more)

April 30: AARP Scam Jam (Learn more and register)

April 30: Deadline to complete vacuum leaf collection survey (Take the survey)

May 5: Deadline to apply to the Congressman Gerry Connolly Congressional Art Competition (Guidelines, Submission Packet, and Frequently Asked Questions)