Coraggio Consulting
Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Meeting, Tuesday, March 18, 2025

Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025
Place: Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, Virginia
Length: 6h 15m (video)
Official meeting video (Fairfax County): https://video.fairfaxcounty.gov/player/clip/3731
Official Board of Supervisors page (Fairfax County): https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/boardofsupervisors/

Machine transcript (speech-to-text) produced by Coraggio Consulting. Not an official county record. Names and numbers may be misspelled; check the video at the timestamp before quoting.
Speech-to-text: whisper.cpp, model large-v3-turbo. Produced 2026-10-30. Timestamps are [HH:MM:SS] into the meeting video.

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[00:00:04] Good morning, everyone, and welcome to our Board of Supervisors meeting of March 18th, 2025, and we're going to begin the meeting as we always do, which is a moment of silence to be followed by the Pledge of Allegiance, and before we rise, for those who are able to rise for our moment of silence and Pledge of Allegiance, I would ask if any board members would like to have anyone recognized this morning to keep in our thoughts and prayers, and I will just mention, it's probably obvious to folks that Supervisor Herity is not with us this morning. He is recovering from a medical procedure and will not be joining us today. So we

[00:00:38] want to keep Supervisor Herity in our thoughts and prayers today and recognize any other board members who would like to offer any thoughts. Seeing and hearing none, if all who are able

[00:00:50] could rise for a moment of silence to be followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Please face the flag.

[00:01:19] I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. And we're going to begin this morning with three presentations, and as we always do, I will announce the presentation and invite our speaker down to the podium in front of me.

[00:01:48] We'll then read the proclamation or resolution, and after the speaker's remarks, we'll pose for a picture from the dais. And this morning, we first have a proclamation to designate March as Alternative Dispute Resolution Month in Fairfax County. And this was requested by myself and Supervisor Stork.

[00:02:07] And I believe Supervisor Stork has the motion. Well, thank you, Mr. Chairman. It's my pleasure to read a proclamation. Whereas Alternative Dispute Resolution, ADR, encompasses a range of processes. I didn't bring my glasses, so. Yeah, I'll take them. Sure, I can do it, but you don't

[00:02:35] hear me struggle, I'll be struggling. Thank you. Oh, yeah, this works great. Old age. You've got to hate it, right? Whereas alternative dispute resolution encompasses a range of processes, tools, and techniques aimed at managing and resolving conflicts in a way that encourages collaboration and mutual understanding, and whereas ADR provides an effective alternative to traditional adversarial proceedings, helping disputing parties reach mutually agreeable resolutions that consider everyone's needs lower costs and enhance communication and morale and whereas adr is widely used in fairfax

[00:03:13] county including the adr program which plays a vital role in supporting employees through high stress situations enhancing communication and improving workplace relationships and whereas fairfax county annually selects a leader in the field of adr to receive special recognition for their outstanding contributions to conflict resolution and community well-being this year the the county recognizes the Northern Virginia Long-Term Care Ons Budman program for its support of consumers in 149 long-term care facilities across the region.

[00:03:48] And whereas the LTC Ons Budman program, through dedicated staff and volunteers, provides vital support to long-term care consumers via consumer outreach, education, and confidential services in negotiation, counseling, and investigation, empowering individuals to address and resolve concerns on improving their quality of life.

[00:04:09] Now, therefore, be it resolved that the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, on behalf of all residents of Fairfax County, does hereby proclaim March 2025 as Alternative Dispute Resolution Month, and encourages all residents, businesses, and organizations to recognize the significance of ADR promoting peaceful and constructive resolutions to conflicts within our community.

[00:04:31] And I'm happy to second that motion. Discussion on the motion. Supervisor Stork. This is an annual proclamation that we do, and it's annual because it's important that we keep it really in the forefront of everything that we do. I think we all recognize what happens when you don't have alternative dispute resolutions.

[00:04:52] First and foremost, as a small business person and really as individuals, we end up in court on different things. They could be minor things, but so much of this could be resolved if we just spent a few moments. Or oftentimes now, if you go to court, you're going to be in mediation anyways before you do anything.

[00:05:10] So why not start it off the right way, right? Why not start with alternative dispute resolution and get it done early and make that effort early and resolve those issues early? The number one thing I hear when you talk to older people, and I'm in one of that class, if you will, is that you recognize that there's so much that happens to you in life that sometimes can be frustrating, sometimes can be really irritating, and sometimes can just really anger you and ball you up and just really keep you frustrated.

[00:05:46] And one of those things is things that happen to us with other individuals or other situations. And the number one thing that older people tell you is you've got to let it go. Well, one of the best ways to let it go is to work through a system that helps you to let it go by working for a win-win.

[00:06:02] So all the things that I'm very proud to be doing this resolution, the proclamation every year. So, again, my thanks to all of you and the work that you do to really to make us a more peaceful, really a more satisfied and hopefully healthier society.

[00:06:18] Thank you. Thank you, Supervisor Stork, Supervisor Lusk. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I'll start by saying I see the importance of this work as it improves outcomes for young people and lessens the burden on our legal system. This past October, as I did the year before, I attended the Conflict Resolution Center Breakfast that was hosted by the Northern Virginia Mediation Services, or NVMS, at the High Bay Valley Community Center.

[00:06:44] NVMS is a partner of the Fairfax County Alternative Accountability Program, which does the important work of responding to juvenile crime with restorative justice as an alternative to the traditional court system. Instead of juvenile incarceration, the program offers the juvenile perpetrators a chance to be productive through community service, mental health services, or alcohol and drug counseling.

[00:07:10] Through discussions with trained professionals, they can also address the root causes of their actions. And as a society, we can hold youth accountable for their actions without exposing them to the long-term risks of a criminal record.

[00:07:26] Restorative justice also empowers victims, helping them advocate for themselves and identifying how their harm is addressed. Alternative dispute resolution seeks to repair harm rather than just punish. And I appreciate the work that organizations like Northern Virginia Mediation Services does.

[00:07:44] And I'll say I appreciate very much this proclamation. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Thank you, Supervisor Lusk. And let me also thank all the folks who work in this space. And I just want to reread a paragraph of the resolution just to draw special attention to this, which is Fairfax County annually selects a leader in the field of ADR to receive special recognition for their outstanding contributions to conflict resolution and community well-being.

[00:08:09] This year, the county recognizes the Northern Virginia Long-Term Care LTC Ombudsman Program for its support of consumers in 149 long-term care facilities across the region. And so we obviously know that alternative dispute resolution is available to anyone who would seek to go down that path, but in particular, as Supervisor Stork mentioned, so often the most vulnerable in our population don't have the resources and tools to be able to go down other paths, nor would it be good for them, both mentally but also financially.

[00:08:46] And so it is important that we recognize that in Fairfax County. And it is great this year that our LTC ombudsman program is the one that we're recognizing as part of this resolution. And so with that, we have with us, actually, let's vote first.

[00:09:05] All those in favor of the resolution, please say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Any abstentions? That motion carries. And we have with us today our speaker, Camden Duran, who is the long-term care ombudsman in Fairfax County, and some folks who are here with you, which you hopefully will introduce to us.

[00:09:25] But welcome. The floor is yours. Thank you. Good morning, Board of Supervisors, staff, and community members. I am Camden Duran. I'm honored to accept this recognition on behalf of the Northern Virginia Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program in honor of Alternative Dispute Resolution Month, initiated by the Fairfax County Alternative Dispute Resolution Program, which supports county employees in effectively managing conflicts. Thank you, Supervisor Stork and Chairman McKay and the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors for acknowledging the importance of alternative dispute resolution and its role in fostering amical relationships in the workplace and in

[00:10:02] our community. This recognition underscores our shared commitment to peaceful conflict resolution, especially for those in long-term care. Our program advocates for the rights and the well-being of long-term care consumers across Fairfax, Arlington, and Loudoun counties, as well as the cities of Alexandria, Fairfax, and Falls Church.

[00:10:21] Our advocacy efforts reach those in nursing homes, assisted livings, and other community-based long-term care settings. And our mission is to ensure that every individual receives the respectful and dignified care that they deserve. Alternative dispute resolution aligns with our values.

[00:10:37] It allows us to address concerns and conflicts in a manner that is empathetic, inclusive, and empowering. It helps us resolve issues in ways that honor the voices of those we serve while fostering mutual understanding and respect. This recognition celebrates the tireless efforts of our dedicated staff and volunteer ombudsman.

[00:10:56] Their unwavering dedication and expertise are the backbone of our success. I am deeply grateful for their contributions. We are also grateful to the residents and the families who trust us with their concerns. Their courage to speak up and seek resolution is the driving force behind our work.

[00:11:13] As we celebrate Alternative Dispute Resolution Month, let's engage in dialogue and listen with empathy and seek common ground. This will make Fairfax County a better place and create a more harmonious and just society for everyone. So in closing, thank you again for this honor.

[00:11:29] We are inspired to continue to work with renewed dedication, championing the values of Alternative Dispute Resolution to ensure every voice is heard and every individual in long-term care receives the dignity and respect that they deserve. Thank you. Thank you very much, Camden, for that.

[00:11:45] And I know I'm going to get in trouble for doing this because it's a long day. But if the three who are there with you, if they could introduce themselves, I think that'd be excellent. Good morning. Nicole Rawlings, Director of the Civil Service Commission. Good morning.

[00:12:01] Kristen Woodward, Pronouns She, Her, Hers, Coordinator of the Alternative Dispute Resolution Program. Good morning. Megan Borshansky, Pronouns She, Her, Hers. I'm the Assistant Coordinator with the ADR Program. So wonderful to see you all today. Excellent.

[00:12:16] Thank you all for being here. And I think at this time, we're ready for a photo. And Camden, thank you. And congratulations on all the work that you're doing. We appreciate it. If you all could come forward and face the audience, and I will join Supervisor Stork, and the board can rise.

[00:14:01] And next, we have a proclamation to designate April 7th through the 13th, 2025, as Public Health Week in Fairfax County. And this was requested by myself. Our speaker today is going to be Chris Revere, Deputy Director for Innovation and Planning in the Health Department.

[00:14:17] Dr. Gloria and a lot of her team are here. And I'm going to turn the gavel over to Vice Chair Smith so that I can read the following proclamation. Whereas Public Health Week is observed from April 7th to 13th each year, highlighting the vital role that public health professionals, policymakers, and communities have enhancing and maintaining health for everyone. And whereas 2025 marks the 30th anniversary of National Public Health Week, with this year's theme, it starts here, emphasizing that we are stronger and healthier when we unite to make a difference in our communities. And whereas over

[00:14:55] the past 30 years, public health has significantly increased life expectancy by implementing HIV AIDS prevention tools, reducing smoking rates through smoke-free policies, lowering childhood mortality with vaccinations, and partnering with organizations to improve health care access.

[00:15:14] And whereas Fairfax County consistently ranks among the healthiest regions in the country, a person's health status is still largely influenced by their zip code due to differences in the built environment, environmental quality, access to nutritious food, education, and health care.

[00:15:32] And whereas by collaborating to improve public health and prevent disease, we can tackle health disparities, shifting from a treatment-focused approach to emphasizing disease prevention, wellness promotion, and health optimization for everyone. Now, therefore, be it resolved that the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, on behalf of all residents of Fairfax County, does hereby proclaim April 7th through 13th as Public Health Week in Fairfax County and encourages residents to learn how to become a part of public health system dedicated to promoting a safer healthier and thriving community for all

[00:16:09] second that motion along with supervisor pelchuk discussion on the motion uh thank you uh vice chair smith i want to thank uh chris dr gloria the whole health department team for their work because we i say this often here with certain proclamations but while this is to designate and publicize public health week i know in fairfax county there really is no such thing because every Every day is public health day in Fairfax County.

[00:16:35] And certainly we have seen that, whether it's through the pandemic, whether it's the very real concerns that people have right now about potentially turning back the progress that's been made in vaccinations, the progress that's being made in health research and science to find cures for many of the challenges that our community faces.

[00:16:56] Seems like it's a really important time to remind people of the fundamentals that we have here in Fairfax County and the very great resources and dedicated staff that we have in the county. And lastly, as the proclamation recognizes, there's always work to be done.

[00:17:14] And I salute the health department for being an integral part of our One Fairfax initiative and policy in Fairfax County and being among the first to recognize that there are islands within the county. where life expectancy is different uh health outcomes are different uh and treatment levels are different and so until we you know we reach a point in time where that paragraph is no longer uh in our proclamation uh we double down on our work especially in our vulnerable communities so thank you all for for all the work that you do uh not during public health week but every day in

[00:17:48] fairfax county supervisor lusk thank you madam vice chairman i'll say again i appreciate the work that's being done here along with the chairman by the health department and thank you Dr. Gloria and your team we recognize the importance of this work based on recent estimates the life expectancy of Fairfax County residents is higher than both the national and Virginia state averages at 85.2 years which is certainly something to be proud of however we must acknowledge the stark health inequities that exist in Fairfax County social determinants of

[00:18:25] health such as economic social and environmental conditions account for 50 percent of health outcomes these factors have significant impacts on both exposure to health risks and accessibility to health resources in the communities that I serve along the Richmond highway corridor there's a higher incidence of obesity substance abuse and self-reported mental health issues I appreciate the work that the health department neighborhood and community services, the community services board, and non-profit organizations to do in response to

[00:18:59] these issues. Public health does not exist in a silo. We are doing work, whether through increasing access to affordable housing, improving pedestrian and bikeway infrastructure, or renovating parks, contributes directly to positive health outcomes. So with that, thank you, Madam Vice Chair.

[00:19:18] Thank you. Supervisor Palczyk. Thank you, Madam Vice Chair. Thank you so much, Dr. Gloria and the entire team. You know, unfortunately, I think probably four or five years ago now, many of us had to get more comfortable saying the word epidemiologist. As you were seeing when we saw some of you last week.

[00:19:38] And, you know, when public health is working well, we don't hear about it. We don't talk about it. And the conversation, unfortunately, often leads to defunding our public health agencies. But we know because of your work and Dr. Gloria's leadership that here in Fairfax County, we focus from the very basics of vaccinations to the community health issues, whether they are related to infant mortality, to promoting health for all ages, to helping our community

[00:20:11] have access to the services and what they need, whether it be healthy food, health care, safe spaces to walk and play um and be and be mobile and active and you know at a time when so much is being um kicked uh hit at uh the public health world try to say it mildly um i think those of you who've been doing this work for so so many years um i believe the who started the world of public health back in 1942 and um thank you for reminding us of what that means um those of us

[00:20:49] who've been abroad or who have parents who have had to deal with that. I still remember my mom tells me that in second grade her seat partner was out of school the day they came around with a polio vaccine, and she did not survive.

[00:21:05] And so we know that even though in our generation we don't see that every day, that you see that and that you help us, remind us why it is so important to do the very basics of vaccination in addition to the other work we do in the community.

[00:21:21] And finally, thank you for building that trust. I think we also learned from the pandemic in the community, so we have built trust. It's a lot easier to do the work. And now as we continue to fight so many epidemics, pandemics, whether it be mental health or others, that continuing to work with our partners to build the trust and to ensure that we're able to support the community is critical.

[00:21:44] So it's probably the hardest work we do, And I appreciate what your employees do every day. Seeing no further discussion, all those in favor of the motion say aye. Aye. Anyone opposed? Any abstentions? That motion passes. Mr. Chairman.

[00:21:59] Thank you, Vice Chairman Smith. And we have with us today, no stranger to the board, Chris Revere, Deputy Director for Innovation and Planning with the Fairfax County Health Department. Welcome. The floor is yours. Thank you, Chairman McKay and members of the board. And thank you for your kind words and for recognizing National Public Health Week and for your longstanding support.

[00:22:20] I'm joined here at the podium by our health director, Dr. Gloria Ado-Yensu, our deputy directors, Dr. Parm Jabari and Jess Werder, and our public information officer, Lucy Caldwell. We are honored to accept this proclamation on behalf of our dedicated health department staff who work tirelessly to protect, promote, and improve health and well-being for all in our community.

[00:22:44] 2025 marks the 30th year of National Public Health Week, And this year's theme, It Starts Here, reminds us that public health starts with each of us. At home, we must do our part to ensure that ourselves, our loved ones, our children are up-to-date on vaccinations.

[00:23:05] On-time vaccination throughout childhood is particularly essential because it helps provide immunity before children are exposed to potentially life-threatening diseases. And regular vaccination also limits the spread of disease, especially in child care and school environments.

[00:23:23] Other practical and simple measures we can all take to prevent the spread of disease include washing our hands frequently, covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or the inside of our elbow, and staying home when we're not feeling well. We can also lower our risk of exposure to vector-borne diseases from mosquitoes and ticks by eliminating standing water breeding sites around our home and by wearing repellents when we're outside. Our health department remains committed to protecting residents from emerging and re-emerging public health threats, especially at-risk and vulnerable groups such as older

[00:24:00] adults, children, and those with underlying medical conditions. When we're not fighting pandemics, public health faces a wide range of community challenges like our opioid epidemic and mental health disorders, communicable diseases such as tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, and most recently vaccine-preventable diseases like measles.

[00:24:24] In order to meet these challenges, we are continuously improving and transforming as a reaccredited world-class health department should. Our nationally recognized data modernization efforts are strengthening our capacity to access and analyze health data, which has significantly strengthened our partnerships with state agencies, and improved our public health surveillance capabilities.

[00:24:51] Community is at the heart of all that we do. They are not only our primary customers, but our most important partners. Therefore, we ask community to remain vigilant and supportive of their health department efforts to ensure their health and safety.

[00:25:09] It starts here every day, and especially in times of emergency. Thank you. Thank you very much. Excellent job, Chris. We appreciate you and the whole team that's here, and I think we're ready for a photo. I'll come down with the proclamation that the board could rise.

[00:26:04] All right, finally, this morning we have a proclamation to recognize April 21st through 25th as Community Development Week in Fairfax County, and this was requested by myself and Supervisor Palczyk.

[00:26:43] Our speaker today is Tom Fleetwood, Director of the Housing and Community Development for Fairfax County, And at this time, I am going to recognize Supervisor Palchuk for a proclamation. Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and thank you to Tom and the team for being here. I just realized I've got my CDBG water bottles.

[00:27:03] Whereas April 21 to 25 has been designated as National Community Development Week to emphasize the significance and positive impact of the Federal Community Development Block Grant Program now in its 51st year, and the Home Investment Partnerships Program now in its 30-30 year.

[00:27:24] And whereas since the programs began, Fairfax County has received over $305 million from the Community Development Block Grant Program and $80 million from home to support essential public infrastructure and affordable housing projects, stimulate economic revitalization, and address various community needs.

[00:27:43] And whereas these programs aid in the creation of affordable housing for low- to moderate-income individuals and families, including seniors, people with disabilities, those facing chronic or recurring homelessness and children,

[00:27:58] And whereas the Community Development Block Grant and the Home Investment Partnerships Program encourage a robust network among local governments, residents, businesses, and nonprofit organizations collaborating to address the needs of Fairfax County residents and support essential locally driven projects and public service programming that otherwise might not be feasible.

[00:28:24] Now, therefore, be it resolved that the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, on behalf of all residents of Fairfax County, does hereby proclaim April 21st to 25th, 2025 as Community Development Week in Fairfax County and encourages all residents to acknowledge the significance and success of the Community Development Block Grant and the Home Investment Partnerships Program in enhancing the quality of life in Fairfax County and throughout the United States.

[00:28:54] I'm happy to second that motion. Discussion on the motion, Supervisor Palcic. I'll be extremely brief because I know we've got a long day ahead. It just takes coming into the government center to see the incredible work that our housing office is doing, using our own property, working with our partners, and investing the lasagna of funding, as Tom calls it, and as this incredible team is able to do to ensure that we have anywhere, I believe, from four to ten times the return for every dollar we're able to invest in the community and housing if you have not had a chance to look at incredible

[00:29:30] housing what it means to build workforce housing especially at a time when the Washington DC region had the highest increase in rates for rentals this past year so we know this continues to be a growing challenge and we need every tool in the toolbox. And these federal programs have been incredibly helpful. And we definitely hope and expect that they continue to be supported and funded, especially in this trying time. So thank you for all you do. And we know the local investment could not go as far as it does without

[00:30:04] our state and federal partners. Thank you, Supervisor Palczyk. And let me also thank you, Tom, and the team. We say this often that, you know, the creativity that goes into making affordable housing happen is many times lost on folks, especially the fine art of weaving in the appropriate funding sources to make sure that we can maximize every dollar that's out there. And certainly we know of many examples where federal dollars have been essential to making some of our affordable housing and other community needs happen. And so I think

[00:30:38] we all are concerned about the future of this program and the funding associated with it, But I think while we celebrate this year and, you know, 51 years of CDBG, 33 years of the home investment program that we're certainly hoping for many, many more years.

[00:30:57] But the fundamental commitment of these programs rests here in Fairfax County regardless. And so we hope those federal dollars continue to flow. But we know we will continue to make the needed investments here in Fairfax County and affordable housing, in particular, knowing how important that is to our community.

[00:31:16] And then last, I just want to mention, because the home funds piece of this sometimes doesn't get the attention of the CDBG piece. And I just want to remind folks that, you know, the home funds support, you know, wealth-building opportunities for first-time homebuyers.

[00:31:32] And we've talked about the importance of ownership and the, you know, the wealth accumulation that comes with home ownership that, you know, doesn't necessarily accumulate with other types of housing. And so, you know, when we talk about investments, I mean, this is not just an investment in our community and individuals, but also can be transformative in terms of, you know, pulling somebody out of a system where they're stuck in poverty into one where they can be successful and financially stable in Fairfax County, a very expensive place to live.

[00:32:03] And so hopefully this funding continues to flow. But with the creative folks we have here, we know our projects will regardless. And so thank you all for your work. It is much appreciated. And with that, all those in favor of the motion, please say aye.

[00:32:19] Aye. Any opposed? Any abstentions? That motion carries. And as I mentioned, we have Tom Fleetwood, our director, with us this morning. Welcome. The floor is yours. Thank you, Mr. Chairman, Supervisor Palachuk, and members of the board. On behalf of the Department of Housing and Community Development and the Fairfax County Redevelopment and Housing Authority. We are honored to join you here today to accept this proclamation in recognizing Community Development Week for April 21st to the 25th and the profound impact that the community development programs have on our residents. I am joined today by our

[00:32:57] outstanding team of public servants who are the direct stewards of these resources led by our Deputy Director Anna Shapiro, Laura Lazo, Michelle Smith, Sharon Craig, forgive me, Sharon Shields, and Jenny Su.

[00:33:16] We have two Sharons, so that's often difficult. Now more than ever, this week serves to remind us of the importance of these resources and that they're providing absolutely essential, flexible funding to address housing insecurity, improve public services, and ensure economic stability for the county's most vulnerable residents.

[00:33:41] Each year, Fairfax County receives, on average, between $7 and $9 million in combined federal CDBG and home funding, which allows us to forge strategic and innovative partnerships with local nonprofit organizations and other private entities and leverage additional resources.

[00:33:59] In FY 2024, Fairfax County leveraged $10.51 in outside funds for every dollar of CDBG expenditures in affordable housing activities. Over the last five years, some 1,100 households representing 46,000 individuals were assisted by CDBG and home-funded programs in Fairfax County.

[00:34:23] The breadth and depth of these activities supported in Fairfax County is something that we can all be proud of. CDBG and HOME fund critical affordable housing development, acquisition, rehabilitation projects, as well as community development programs across the spectrum.

[00:34:40] The programs support the Board's goal to develop a minimum of 10,000 net new units by 2034 and Fairfax County's ongoing commitment to providing safe, stable, and affordable housing for everyone. As you're aware, CDBG was integral to funding the public-private partnership to develop, for example, North Hill, which includes 279 new affordable units, including 63 units for seniors and 10 for adults living with disabilities.

[00:35:14] HOME supported the acquisition of Good Shepherd Housing's 100th affordable housing property, a unit in the Hagel Circle neighborhood, providing a family of five that was at risk of homelessness with a place to call home and a chance to thrive.

[00:35:32] CDBG has been vital in supporting recent preservation efforts at FCRHA senior properties such as Little River Glen and Herndon Harbor House, as well as facilitating necessary infrastructure repairs at multiple group homes throughout the county to enable our community services boards, vulnerable consumers to remain housed and receive services.

[00:35:56] Senior residents are able to continue living independently and age in place through CDBG's Home Repair for the Elderly Program, which I know many of you are familiar. In the coming months, CDBG will also fund our pilot manufactured housing rehabilitation program at Harmony Place for much-needed rehabilitation so residents in that community can remain safely and stably housed. CDBG has also supported important rehabilitation work at both the Eleanor Kennedy and Catherine Hanley family shelters to enhance safety and security at the facilities.

[00:36:33] Crucial tenant-based rental assistance funded through the home program and down payment assistance through the CDBG program for first-time homebuyers allow low-income households to afford to live and work and have the same opportunities to succeed as others in our communities.

[00:36:51] There is also the targeted public services that are supported by CDBG under the funding pool. These services include providing women's hygiene products to low-income residents, civil legal support for vulnerable individuals, affordable housing and financial literacy skills, and the list goes on.

[00:37:13] Collectively, these programs helped thousands of Fairfax County residents achieve greater stability and opportunity. And without this federal funding, these services would not have been possible. As we celebrate Community Development Week, I thank the board for your unwavering leadership and support for our work with these funds and writ large.

[00:37:34] Our federal funding, coupled with our local commitment and invaluable community partners, remain the backbone of our efforts to promote housing security, economic stability, and inclusive growth. Fairfax County remains committed to utilizing every available resource to create a more equitable and thriving community.

[00:37:54] And again, we are deeply grateful for your leadership and support. Thank you. Thank you so much, Tom, and your entire team, as we said, for the work you do every day on all the programs that you mentioned. And we're so proud of that and, you know, always cheering you on on the sidelines.

[00:38:11] We play a role, but the work that you do is essential, so thank you. With that, I think we're ready for a photo, and if Supervisor Palczyk would join me and the board would write.

[00:38:32] I'm going to move on to appointments to boards, authorities, commissions, and advisory groups,

[00:39:47] And I will turn to Supervisor Smith for a motion. I move approval of the appointments to boards, authorities, and commissions dated May 30th through March 18th. Thank you very much.

[00:40:03] And that motion has been made and seconded by myself and Supervisor Palchik. Is there anyone who folks would like to call for a separate vote? Seeing and hearing none, I will just say to Supervisor Smith, excellent selection for the RHA.

[00:40:19] name someone we're all familiar with and with that all those in favor of the motion please say aye aye any opposed any abstentions and that motion carries and we next are going to move on to board matters and I am going to turn the gavel over to Supervisor Smith in a moment we are going to go in order with myself followed by Supervisor Smith and then we will go alphabetically as we always do by Magisterial District. And with that, I turn the gavel to Supervisor Smith. I have

[00:40:55] two board matters. First, as I move to approve without objection, the proclamation requested listed in this document to be presented inside or outside of the boardroom as appropriate, and that is Fentanyl Awareness Day, Mental Health Awareness Month, Asian American, Native, Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Jewish American Heritage Month, Teacher Appreciation Week and Volunteer Service Awards recognition for Monday, June 9th.

[00:41:22] Without objection, it is so ordered. Thank you very much. My second board matter is a letter to General Assembly leaders, Governor Youngkin, regarding unemployment insurance, and I'm offering this jointly with Supervisor Walkinshaw, the chair of our legislative committee.

[00:41:40] Unfortunately, unemployment rates are on the rise across Virginia, most significantly in Northern Virginia, where an estimated 175,000 federal workers reside. For the week ending March 8, 2025, unemployment claims increased by a staggering 20%. The Trump administration is continuing to work to reduce the overall size of the federal government through terminations and eliminations of federal agencies and departments, despite adverse legal rulings on past firings.

[00:42:10] Just this weekend, the president signed an executive order gutting an additional seven federal agencies. Unfortunately, we should expect and prepare for this to continue. The repercussions of these job losses are far-reaching, as we recently discussed in one of our committee meetings.

[00:42:26] Many of our residents are concerned they will be unable to pay their bills. This board has written two letters to the governor asking for his support in fighting back against these cuts. Today, I am asking the board to approve sending the attachment letter, which requests that general Assembly leaders and the governor consider using the state's budget surplus to bolster Virginia's unemployment insurance system to help those terminated federal employees and potentially contractors during this difficult time. The General Assembly will hold its reconvene session on April 2nd to consider changes to legislation and the budget offered by the governor. Therefore, I move

[00:43:06] that the Board of Supervisors approve sending the attached letter to House Speaker Don Scott, Majority Leader Scott Surivel and Governor Glenn Youngkin requesting consideration of additional resources being provided to Virginia's unemployment insurance system to both respond to rising demands for benefits as well as potentially increasing the amount of benefits provided to individuals.

[00:43:28] It's been moved and seconded by Supervisors Walkinshaw and Palachuk. Discussion on the motion? Just very briefly, I appreciate my colleagues' support of this. This is something that we have talked about in the mayors and chairs sessions as a regional initiative, and I know other jurisdictions are going to be making this same request.

[00:43:46] I think it's obvious to all of us that the state is sitting on a very large budget surplus, and what we're asking the General Assembly to do is not unusual. In fact, these extensions for unemployment benefits were put in place during the COVID pandemic and certainly for us as a region and for our federal workers and and contract employees and others who are affected by job losses that are occurring right now this feels very much like that same emergency from a financial and stability standpoint and so the beauty here is the budget

[00:44:22] is not completed and the state has a very large surplus and instead of just giving tax returns to everyone this would be a targeted way to potentially increase benefits for the people who need them most right now which are the people who are filing unemployment claims and as the board matter mentions unfortunately those are continuing to increase at a staggering rate and sadly are projected to continue to increase at a staggering rate and so this matter is timely to get this letter signed and sent to our house and senate leadership and our governor

[00:44:58] before the final acts on this budget are taken thank you supervisor walkinshaw thank you thank you madam chair we are in the midst of a very rapidly unfolding economic crisis in this commonwealth and especially in northern virginia we know that unemployment insurance claims are up 81 percent from the same time in 2024 and that number is going to continue to rise i spoke yesterday with the ceo of a major government contractor who has had to lay off a huge swath of their workforce who is working with USAID. All of us know in our respective districts,

[00:45:35] federal employees who have lost their jobs. Richmond cannot treat this as business as usual. And the budget that the General Assembly adopted in February has been overtaken by events, and they need to work with the governor to make an adjustment. And one point that I will make here, Federal employees are eligible for the Unemployment Compensation for Federal Employees Program.

[00:46:05] It's actually a little bit separate from the Unemployment Insurance Program. And the federal government reimburses dollar for dollar, 100% of every unemployment insurance claim for federal employees based on their duty station.

[00:46:22] However, it is capped at whatever that state's maximum amount is. So if you're a federal employee whose duty station is here in the Commonwealth of Virginia, and there are a lot of them, you're eligible for that program, but you're capped at $378 per month, which is the lowest in the region, one of the lowest in the country.

[00:46:45] And if the Commonwealth of Virginia does not increase its unemployment insurance benefits for everyone, federal employees who live and work in the Commonwealth won't be eligible for increased UCFE funding. That will cost the Commonwealth of Virginia nothing.

[00:47:03] It won't cost them a dollar because the federal government reimburses dollar for dollar with no maximum. There's no cap. So if the General Assembly and the governor were to work together to increase unemployment insurance for all Virginians, any federal employee whose duty station is in the Commonwealth of Virginia, those benefits would be reimbursed to the Commonwealth 100 percent, dollar for dollar, no questions asked.

[00:47:32] So if we don't do this, we are leaving huge amounts, potentially, of federal money on the table. So it is urgent. It needs to be addressed in the next week, quite frankly, before the budget is finalized, and we need the governor and the General Assembly to come together and work together to make this happen. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

[00:47:57] Thank you. Supervisor Palchuk. Yeah, I just briefly want to thank the chairman and supervisor, Rockenshaw, for working on this letter. I also appreciate that it does include the Speaker of the House and the Senate Majority Leader, because unlike Congress, we do have a Democratic majority in the General Assembly, while there's a Republican governor. And so I do think we need to ensure that all of our representatives down in Richmond are taking this seriously. And as we know, not just for our region, But everywhere in Virginia where this impact is being and will continue to be impacted even more so. So thank you Thank you supervisor stork

[00:48:35] And it's it's my understanding too that if you are a resident of the district of columbia I mean if you are employed in the district of columbia and you are unemployed out of the district of columbia Would that not also be a district of columbia? payout for unemployment. So in that sense, Virginia would have, it would not cost Virginia anything other than to make it clear that we support our federal employees and we support them getting a higher unemployment compensation. So I think this sends a message not only in Virginia, but also sends a message that we support those efforts to provide that support

[00:49:12] in District of Columbia. So I think all of those elements are an important part of this message this letter to the governor thank you and our legislators thank you seeing no further discussion all those in favor of the motion say aye aye anyone opposed any abstentions that motion carries mr chairman thank you very much uh vice chairman smith and as i mentioned um the northern virginia regional commission uh will also be sending a letter uh supporting uh this initiative and this ask of the general assembly and the governor as well uh so that you know just so people are aware every jurisdiction in Northern Virginia is signing on to this effort. That's how important it is.

[00:49:52] With that, we are going to move on to Vice Chair Smith. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I have a few this time. I am going to be having a neighborhood college, which we haven't done for a few years. Beginning on April 3, the Sully Neighborhood College will consist of seven unique sessions from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. and will be a mix of in-person virtual meetings. Sully Neighborhood College is open to Sully District residents, business owners and community partners who are interested in learning more about the services provided by Fairfax County and how to engage with the county and the community. Anyone who

[00:50:27] wants to learn more is welcome to contact my office at 703-814-7100 or sully@fairfaxcounty.gov. The deadline to register is Friday, March 28th and I have invited the county executive to the first session, so I think that will be exciting. Therefore, Mr. Chairman, I ask the Office of Public Affairs to advertise this opportunity.

[00:50:51] Without objection, that is so ordered. Supervisor Smith. Thank you. Building Safety Month is coming up. Fairfax County is committed to facilitating the safe and sustainable construction of our communities and is fortunate to have dedicated staff to confirm through the permitting plan review, inspection, and enforcement process that modern safety methods in the state's building safety code have been implemented. Therefore, Mr. Chairman, I ask without objection that the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors name May as Building Safety Month in Fairfax County and direct staff to prepare a proclamation to be presented outside of the boardroom for presentation in May. Thank

[00:51:29] you. With that, let's vote on that. I will second that. Any discussion on the motion? Seeing and hearing none. All those in favor, please say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Any abstentions? That motion carries. Supervisor Smith. Thank you. Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month is observed annually in March. It is a time to raise awareness about colorectal cancer, promote early detection, and support those affected by the disease. Therefore, I ask that county staff prepare a proclamation for presentation outside of the boardroom to proclaim March as colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Do you want me to make that a motion? Yep, and I will second that.

[00:52:06] Thank you. Discussion on the motion? Seeing and hearing none. All those in favor, please say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Any abstentions? That motion carries. Supervisor Smith. We are having a blood drive at our office. Mr. Chairman, 25% of the U.S. population will need to receive blood or blood products at some time in their lives. Only 47% of the population is eligible to donate blood, only about 4% do. When asked why they don't donate, most people say that it's because they have never been asked, so we've decided to ask. My office is hosting a blood drive with ANOVA on Saturday, March 22nd from 8 a.m. to noon at the Sully District Governmental Center.

[00:52:46] Appointments are strongly recommended and can be made at, there's a link, but I'm going to let you know. You can call my office 703-814-7100 or sully at fairfaxcounty.gov. Donors will receive an exclusive and nova umbrella i asked the office of public affairs to advertise this event through all appropriate county communication channels and without objection that is so ordered supervisor smith and i have one more that was a little bit later it's extension of a review period dominion energy submitted a 2232 application on january 31 2025 that was accepted on february 2 2025

[00:53:25] with a 60-day review deadline of april 1 2025. the 2232 application proposes an electric substation on a property located at 14701 willard road chantilly virginia 20151 tax map 44-1 double circle 13a in the sully district this substation will support two proposed data centers at other locations and be connected to the electrical grid the extension period request is to allow the applicant and staff sufficient time to complete the 2232 review subsection b of section 15.2-223

[00:54:03] of the code of virginia states failure of the commission to act within 60 days of a submission unless the time is extended by the governing body shall be deemed approval the full length of an extension period may not be necessary and any extension is not intended to set a date for final action due to this timing issue this extension request is being processed as a board matter outside the typical procedure as an administrative item.

[00:54:26] Therefore, Mr. Chairman, I move that the Board of Supervisors extend the review period for Application 2232-2025-SU-00002 to December 31, 2025.

[00:54:44] This motion should not be construed as a favorable recommendation on future applications by the Board and does not relieve any applicant from compliance with the provisions of any applicable ordinances, regulations, or adopted standards. This action in no way prejudices the substantive review of future applications. And I will second that motion.

[00:55:02] Is there a discussion on the motion? Seeing and hearing none, all those in favor, please say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Any abstentions? That motion carries. Supervisor Smith. I am done. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Thank you, Supervisor Smith. Supervisor Walkinshaw. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I have one board matter and a couple of announcements.

[00:55:19] The board matter is a joint board matter with you, with Supervisor Jimenez, and Supervisor Lusk. Proclamation requests to recognize April 25th as Arbor Day. And last year, I went through in great detail the history of Arbor Day, so I'll skip that.

[00:55:35] But it is kind of interesting. To me, maybe. I'll just ask unanimous consent that the Board of Supervisors recognize Friday, April 25th, 2025, Arbor Day in Fairfax County, and that a proclamation be signed by the Chairman, Supervisor Lusk, and myself to be presented to Mount Eagle Elementary School during their joint Earth Day-Arbor Day celebration on April 26, 2025. And let's make that a motion. I'm happy to second that, along with a lot of others. Any discussion on the motion? Seeing and hearing none. All those in favor, please say

[00:56:12] aye. Aye. Any opposed? Any abstentions? That motion carries. Supervisor Walkinshaw. Thank you, Mr. Chairman, just a couple of announcements, things that I wanted to share. First, and board members might have seen this in the media, last week in Burke, we had a really terrible incident of vandalism and graffiti, more than 50 acts of vandalism, racist and anti-Semitic graffiti that was sprayed throughout the community, which obviously, you know, folks are on edge right now

[00:56:46] for a lot of reasons, and it was particularly upsetting given things that are going on in other circumstances. The good news is the community response was just overwhelming and very positive. People came out immediately to help clean up and cover up the graffiti. The police department did an incredible job at West Springfield Station apprehending. The young man happened to be a 16-year-old who was responsible for the acts. The faith community came together and organized efforts with kids to chalk on the sidewalks messages of love and acceptance. And it's just

[00:57:25] been a really powerful, I think, uplifting moment for the Burke community. So something positive came out of a really terrible incident. And I just wanted to share that and thank the police department the community faith leaders who helped to make that happen next on a even more uplifting note um i'm sure um everyone saw that the george mason university women's basketball team uh won the a10 championship and on their way to the their first ever uh ncaa tournament uh so we are very

[00:58:00] excited for that they will face off against florida state um i safe to say i think they're underdog against Florida State but I have I have confidence given the season that they put together they'll be playing on Saturday I don't think the time has has been set but but very exciting for the George Mason community and the Fairfax community and one thing I'll note last year the NCAA women's final had higher TV ratings than the NCAA men's final and hopefully that'll be the case again with George Mason winning that final.

[00:58:34] The men's team unfortunately lost in the A-10 final to VCU, but they also had a great season. So congratulations, especially to the George Mason University women's basketball team. And years ago, I can remember like yesterday when we had the final four Patriots here in the board auditorium, I think a lot of people learned to not sleep on the Patriots.

[00:58:54] That's right. I'm looking forward to seeing that trophy right here. They may be the underdog, but pay attention. That's right. That's it, Mr. Chairman. Thank you. Thank you very much, Supervisor Walkinshaw, Supervisor Bierman. We're all waiting to see your bracket, Mr. Chairman.

[00:59:11] It's done. It's ready. Good, good. One board matter today, which is recognition of staff involved in addressing Scott's Run Nature Preserve fire. I'm going to read the board matter, and there are a lot of names on this board matter, which I did intentionally because there were a lot of people who helped out.

[00:59:32] On March 12, 2025, Fairfax County Park Authority FCPA staff member Michael Cardona was inspecting trails at Scotts Run Nature Preserve when he saw smoke, followed it, and came upon an active fire with a few trees already engulfed in flames. Mr. Cardona immediately called 911 to report the fire and stayed on scene until the fire department arrived.

[00:59:53] The fire and rescue department, FRD, dispatched personnel at 5.30 p.m. and fought the fire until 10 p.m. The personnel who responded include Battalion Chief 402, BC Michael D'Amico, Engine 401, McLean, Captain Joshua Allen, Firefighter Travis Wynn, Firefighter Mason Insigne, Firefighter Imani Gillen, Engine 402, Vienna, Captain Matthew Helmuth, Technician Giovanni Vasquez, Firefighter Christopher Rhodes, Firefighter Jason Mills, Engine 439, North Point, Captain Robert Ritchie, Lieutenant Bob Pope, Technician Michael Leblanco, Firefighter Nicholas Sirinik.

[01:00:32] Engine 442, Wolf Trap, Lieutenant Richard Lathrop, Lieutenant Scott Primrose, Technician Ted Pack, Firefighter Marcus Tynes. Medic 401, McLean, Technician Webster Brown, Firefighter Zachary Budenshaw, Volunteer Firefighter Clara Rice.

[01:00:49] Investigators Captain Michael Heath and Lieutenant Christopher Johnson. They also brought additional equipment with them to include Brush Truck 402 Vienna, Brush Truck 439, North Point, Tanker 442 Wolf Trap, and UTV 442 Wolf Trap. After the fire was extinguished, FCBA staff members Kylie Lee, Casey Patrizzi, and Nicole Mitchell assessed the damage and coordinated with FRD.

[01:01:13] Scottsboro Nature Preserve is one of the few nature preserves in the county. It is a popular destination with beautiful views that include rare plants, spring wildflowers, steep cliffs, and many mature oak, beech, ancient hemlock, and wild cherry trees. A fire could have caused significant damage to this county treasure.

[01:01:29] Instead, the quick and comprehensive actions taken by FCPA and FRD staff limited damage to about one-third of an acre. Therefore, I move that the Board of Supervisors direct staff to prepare a resolution honoring the staff who acted quickly to identify, extinguish, and address the fire at Scott's Run Nature Preserve to be presented in the boardroom on a future date.

[01:01:49] I'm happy to second that motion. Is there a discussion on the motion? Look, I know you're all disappointed that I left my smoky bear costume at home, but only you can prevent forest fires. I never really thought that there would be a forest fire within Fairfax County, but there was.

[01:02:05] But thankfully, thankfully, our county staff, both for the Park Authority and FRD, responded and got this thing under control, did a fantastic job. As I said, I was talking to some of my staff members yesterday about this board matter, and they kept asking me, do you want all those people in it? I said, yes, I do. I want people to know exactly what our county's response to a problematic situation is. I want them to know what their tax dollars are going towards, making sure that we had our nature preserve a third of an acre.

[01:02:46] It could have been much bigger than that, could have been much worse than that. It could have gone to the houses on either side of the nature preserve. We got very lucky, and we have very, very hardworking staff who did a great job here. So I wanted to highlight that for everybody. Thank you, Supervisor Bierman.

[01:03:02] And, of course, we've seen instances across the country about how fast these can spread. And so excellent recognition for a lot of folks who did a lot of good work. With that, all those in favor of the motion, please say aye. Aye. Any opposed?

[01:03:18] Any abstentions? That motion carries. Supervisor Beerman. One announcement for my office. I want to introduce you all to Elizabeth Murphy, who's here behind me. Elizabeth is joining the office on a part-time basis. She's got a long time, long, sorry, experience working in marketing, communications, and community engagement.

[01:03:39] She's also a Langley High School grad. She also got very involved when she moved back to the area with the McLean Revitalization Corporation, working on helping to revitalize downtown McLean. We're really happy to have her joining the office to, as I said, work on community engagement and communication.

[01:04:00] So please join me in welcoming Elizabeth to the team. Excellent. Thank you, and no further board matters. Thank you very much, Supervisor Behrman. Next up is Supervisor Lusk.

[01:04:16] Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I've got three board matters and one announcement. The first is a joint matter with you, Mr. Chairman, for National Public Safety Telecommunications Week. The week of April 13, 2025, through April 19, 2025, is the National Public Safety Telecommunications Week.

[01:04:33] This week provides an opportunity to honor our public safety personnel who answer 911 calls and texts, dispatch our police, our sheriffs, behavioral specialists, and our fire and rescue personnel to emergency incidents. They are the first first responders and the critical link in the chain of emergency response.

[01:04:53] In addition, we learned earlier this year that these dedicated employees respond to literally hundreds of thousands of non-emergency calls from our residents as well. Therefore, Mr. Chairman, I move without objection that the Board of Supervisors designate April 13, 2025 through April 19, 2025 as Public Safety Telecommunications Week in Fairfax County.

[01:05:16] I further move the Board of Supervisors direct the Office of Public Affairs to prepare a proclamation to be presented either within or outside the boardroom and to work with the appropriate public safety staff to promote the week and any scheduled events. And let's vote on that. I'm happy to second those motions.

[01:05:35] Is there any further discussion? Seeing and hearing none, all those in favor, please say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Any abstentions? That motion carries. Supervisor Lusk. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. The second board matter is to recognize the community service of Kathy Schreiner.

[01:05:50] This board matter is to recognize and acknowledge the extensive community service of Ms. Schreiner, a longtime resident of Claremont Woods. The chairman is likely to be aware that Ms. Schreiner has lived on Heridian Court in Claremont Woods for at least the last 48 years, joining Claremont Woods Community Association, founded in 1958, early on in her residency.

[01:06:15] Ms. Reiner has served her community in many capacities in the most recent 20 years as the Claremont Woods Community Association's steadfast treasurer. But beyond her official roles and contributions, she's been a pillar of the community and the foundation of its spirit, supporting every event, meeting, and community gathering over many, many years and becoming the de facto Claremont Woods community historian.

[01:06:39] Kathy Schreiner has been the quintessential element of the community spirit. This model citizen and contributor should be recognized. Therefore, Mr. Chairman, I would like to move without objection that the Board of Supervisors direct the Office of Public Affairs to prepare a proclamation to recognize Mrs. Schreiner for her dedicated service to Claremont Woods community and to Franconia District.

[01:07:02] This proclamation is to be presented outside the boardroom. And without objection, that is so ordered, and she is a real treasure. So I really appreciate you recognizing her. Supervisor Lusk. No problem. And then the third board matter, Mr. Chairman, is regarding Koinonia, which is a nonprofit organization that provides emergency relief in the form of food, clothing, and financial assistance to those in need in the Franconia district, very near the existing Franconia Governmental Center site.

[01:07:32] They currently operate from a very small accessory building on the site of the Franconia United Methodist Church, which is adjacent to the Franconia Elementary School. And I'm sad to say the needs of the community have grown, and so too have the space needs for Koinonia to adequately serve the community.

[01:07:51] Koinonia was fortunate enough to find a larger available space almost immediately across the street at Olivet Episcopal Church. There are no exterior modifications needed. To move into the space requires interior modifications to a portion of one of the existing accessory buildings.

[01:08:11] Koinonia filed a minor site plan with the county last fall. And as you can imagine, the learning curve has been steep for them. Koinonia learned earlier this year that board approval of both a proper condition amendment and a concurrent special exception are also required for their interior-only improvements prior to moving into the space.

[01:08:34] Navigating the land development process has been a daunting experience thus far for the small nonprofit, even with the assistance of the nonprofit coordinator within the Department of Land Development Services, LDS. Now, staff from the Department of Planning and Development, DPD, have indicated they will assign a staff person to provide further special assistance during the zoning process. I am grateful to our staff for their efforts to help Koinonia navigate the process to come. However, the zoning application fees were unforeseen and are cost prohibitive for this small non-profit. My staff has coordinated with the Office of the County

[01:09:13] Attorney on this point, and I believe this situation demonstrates good cause for a zoning application fee waiver. Therefore, Mr. Chairman, I move the Board of Supervisors direct the Department of planning development to waive the zoning application fees and expedite the schedule for all applicable zoning applications required for Koinonia's proposal to relocate to 6107 Franconia Road, also known as Tax Map Parcel 81-3, Double Circle 5, Parcel 1B.

[01:09:45] I further move the Board of Supervisors authorize the Department of Land Development Services to concurrently process the required site plans and building permit applications with the zoning applications. These motions should not be construed as a favorable recommendation by the Board of Supervisors on the proposed applications and does not relieve the applicant from compliance with the provisions of all applicable ordinances, regulations, or adopted standards in any way.

[01:10:12] So moved, Mr. Chair. And the Chair will second that, along with Supervisor Palchuk. Let me just say this is an unusual circumstance, but I know it's been cleared with the county attorney. And this is unusual for our board to do, but this is such an unusual, merited circumstance, knowing Coya and EOL and the challenges they've faced for a long time.

[01:10:34] So I'm really glad to see this come forward and hope that the board can support them. With that, all those in favor of the motion, please say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Any abstentions? That motion carries. Supervisor Lusk. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. And then the last thing I just wanted to note, which I think the board will probably be happy to hear, I will be removing one of our public hearings that are scheduled this evening from the agenda as the planning commission deferred their action on plan amendment sspa-2023-roman numeral 4-2s

[01:11:09] also known as the franconia triangle from a date from march 12th this has now necessitated the board moving its date so i will be making a motion later this afternoon to defer that action to a date certain of may 13th 2025 just so that folks are aware and are hearing this at least during this discussion with the board thank you thank you supervisor lusk and i know that the clerk always attempts to make contact with those individuals so that they know i know there's a lot of folks signed up to speak on that case so hopefully everyone gets the message early today that that's

[01:11:48] taking place thank you supervisor Lusk next up is supervisor Alcorn thank you mr. chairman I have two board matters in the packet one announcement and then also a third board matter regarding the W no D trail since something around last night and also hand it out today so but I'll do my first two board matters first um so we do have coming up the fifth annual tour to hunter mill coming up on sunday may 5th also known as cinco de mayo but no um before you go any further supervisor alcoran my calendar shows

[01:12:27] may 5th as a monday so it would be may 4th so it's think of the bio eve so we're still doing the sunday yes okay excellent may 4th So thank you very much.

[01:12:44] So I'm going to invite you to the correct day, which is May 4th. This is the fifth annual. People may finish on May 5th, but we'll start on May 4th. On the long ride, you're right, absolutely. And there will be two routes for this community bike ride.

[01:12:59] There's going to be a short ride and a long ride. So I think as some of you are aware, maybe most, there's a route for every ability. And each year we change up the routes to give riders a fresh view and highlight bike-friendly areas across the district. So this year's route includes both a stretch along the W&OD Trail, which I'll be talking about in a subsequent board matter, and also the Nova Parks and W&OD Trail just celebrated its 50th anniversary this past fall.

[01:13:33] So another new thing worth noting is the WNOD bridge across Wheelie Avenue. That was a big improvement, really improved the safety of that area for both users of the trail and drivers along Wheelie Avenue.

[01:13:53] So we do have this year ending and beginning at the North County Government Center. More information on the routes is on the Hunter Mill District webpage. And as always, at least so far, as an incentive to register, you're going to get our always popular branded bike socks.

[01:14:12] This year, they will be orange. That was a lot of discussion in my office, believe me. So I do want to thank many of the groups and individuals that are helping make this possible, including the Fairfax Alliance for Better Bicycling, Reston Bike Club, Reston Community Center, Nova Parks, the Fairfax County Police Department, and especially my office, Jillian Smith and Shomley Houth, and also the entire office have just done a tremendous amount of work on this.

[01:14:44] So, therefore, Mr. Chairman, I'd ask without objection the Office of Public Affairs provide promotional support to the Tour de Hunter Mill for 2025 as appropriate. Sorry, without objection, that is so ordered.

[01:14:59] Supervisor Alcorn. Okay, thank you, and thank you for the correction on May 4th, not Cinco de Mayo. All right, I do have another board matter recognizing Rob Walker for his service. Mr. Chairman, Reston resident Rob Walker is retiring from the Reston Planning and Zoning Committee after 26 years of service.

[01:15:22] Better known as Reston PNZ, this group is an independent advisory body to the Board of Supervisors in the Planning Commission, reviewing rezoning and development plans, proposed changes to the Reston Comprehensive Plan, and potential changes to the planned residential district zoning ordinance.

[01:15:39] So he's done more than two years, or sorry, two decades of service, and beyond this, he's also served on the Phase I Master Plan Committee and co-chair at the Wheelie Avenue Pedestrian Crossing Committee. And on Ruston PNZ, the last six years, he was chair. So therefore, Mr. Chairman, I would ask without objection that the Office of Public Affairs prepare a proclamation to recognize Rob Walker's service to be presented outside of the boardroom. Without objection, that is so

[01:16:14] ordered. 26 years is a long time remarkable. That is a long time. Thank you to Rob for all of his his service to the community. Supervisor Alcorn. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. And next, I'll do the, there's a resolution that I passed around. This was provided yesterday evening. And just as a little bit of background, this resolution is also being considered by Arlington and Loudoun.

[01:16:44] They are discussing it later this afternoon. This is something that several of us have been working on during recent weeks and months i want to thank the county executive and chris harrington for their work on this and frankly there is a pretty short timeline on this it's not often that we discuss at the board of supervisors the clear cutting of a park but that's actually what we're talking about here. Now, granted, it's not every park that also is co-located with a Dominion

[01:17:23] easement and also includes high transmission lines. But this is something that they've started doing already. And if, Mr. Chairman, if you're okay with this, I'll just read the draft resolution and see if there are any objections to endorsing it.

[01:17:48] Please. So, again, this is a resolution suggested from Nova Parks. Whereas the W&OD Trail is one of the most popular parks in Virginia with nearly 3 million annual users, whereas the 45-mile-long, 100-foot-wide park is owned and operated by Nova Parks with Dominion Energy transmission lines on 33 of the 45 miles, Whereas the park is both a trail and a wildlife corridor, it is both that and that runs through the heart of Northern Virginia.

[01:18:21] Whereas Dominion Energy has recently cut virtually all the trees in a four-mile section of the park in the Vienna to Dunloring area. Whereas Dominion Energy has expressed their intention to cut almost all the trees on the entire 33 miles of park with transmission lines from Sherlington in the east to west of Leesburg over the next two years, whereas Dominion has stated that no vegetation, including trees that have a potential to grow over 10 feet, will be allowed in this 33 miles of the W&OD Trail.

[01:18:53] Now, therefore, be it resolved that Fairfax County requests the following actions of Dominion Energy related to the W&OD Trail. First, request Dominion Energy in plans to cut most of the trees on the 33 miles of the W&OD trail that have powered transmission lines overhead. Second, request Dominion Energy adopt a selective pruning of only the trees that pose a direct impact on the transmission lines, much as Dominion has used on the W&OD for decades. Third, request Dominion Energy adopt a vegetation

[01:19:27] height limit that allows for a wider variety of native trees. And then last, request that where tree cutting is necessary to assure the reliability of electrical grid, Dominion Energy replant those areas with a mix of native species designed to support pollinators and manage those in other areas of the park for invasive species for enough years to allow for the establishment of the native species and related habitat. I'm happy to second that motion. I want to thank you for bringing this forward. Supervisor Alcorn, you mentioned Arlington and Loudon will have similar resolutions.

[01:20:04] I'm also aware that the City of Falls Church will be doing this as well, and I think, you know, this is timely because this has not yet occurred, and I think the plan's alarming. What we're asking for here is a middle ground. None of us are interested in impeding the flow of electricity, but by the same token, this is a park largely.

[01:20:26] I mean, we see it as a trail, but it's also parkland to most people, and there's certainly a better way, a more controlled way to do this. And that's what we're asking for here, which is a reasonable request. And so I appreciate all the folks who have worked on this, from the county staff to Nova Parks, to our other partner jurisdictions, and hopefully this will get a little better collaboration.

[01:20:49] Great. Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman. Any further discussion on the motion? Mr. Chairman, just to clarify for the record, this is a motion. I'm assuming Supervisor Alcorn is making a motion to adopt this resolution. Yes, I would make a motion to adopt the resolution as suggested by Nova Parks.

[01:21:07] Correct. And that's the motion that I've seconded. Supervisor Beerman and I have seconded. Any further discussion? Seeing and hearing none. All those in favor of the motion, please say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Any abstentions?

[01:21:22] That motion carries. Supervisor Alcorn. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. And then one last announcement. There was a certain basketball game last Sunday. The Southlakes Boys Basketball won the state championship again. So this is very exciting news for Hunter Mill and the Ruston area.

[01:21:42] So the Southlakes Boys Basketball team clinched the Virginia Classic state championship for the second year in a row. And I want to congratulate the team, the coaches, the players, the parents, everybody, including head coach Mike Desmond. It's truly an impressive accomplishment.

[01:22:00] So I know I got to the game last year. This year I could not go. It was remarkable. This year's team actually did not have 11 players that graduated last year. So there was a lot of turnover on the team, but they still were able to pull it off.

[01:22:18] But this year's team did bring back Michigan State bound Jordan Scott, and he finished his high school basketball career with 32 points, nine rebounds, five blocks, and three assists. And then forward Merrick Reelstone added 21 points to the team's win, and he had 11 straight during the third quarter alone.

[01:22:36] So congratulations to the team, to the school, and I look forward to maybe a three-peat next year. Well, time will tell, but certainly congratulations. And I think we all know who Jordan Scott's mom is, and it's always been great to see her excitement at the games.

[01:22:56] And they had a heck of a season this year as an entire team. And interestingly, played Woodson at the state title game. So we had two FCPS schools playing each other, which I think is another one of those indicators of just the tremendous talent that we have in our student-athletes in Fairfax County.

[01:23:15] So we want to celebrate Woodson making it to the final game as well. And I know we'll include Southlakes and our state title championship high school teams that will come before the board for recognition and definitely looking forward to that.

[01:23:31] Awesome. Thank you. And that's all, Mr. Chairman. Thank you very much, Supervisor Alcorn, Supervisor Jimenez. No board matter, Mr. Chairman. Thank you. Thank you, Supervisor Jimenez. Supervisor Stork. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. This is joining with Supervisor Dalia Palchuk.

[01:23:48] Each May, National Foster Care Month, provides an opportunity to acknowledge the dedicated foster parents, family members, volunteers, mentors, child welfare professionals, and other members of the community who help children and youth in foster care find permanent homes and connections.

[01:24:05] In Fairfax County, there are numerous children and teenagers who depend on the foster care system for safety, permanency, as well as well-being. Foster care is a vital service that offers temporary homes and care for children who have been removed from their families due to abuse, neglect, or other challenging circumstances.

[01:24:22] These children rely on the compassion and commitment of foster families to provide a safe and nurturing environment during a tumultuous period in their lives. In September 2022, the Federal Children's Bureau reported that a total of 368,530 children and youth were in foster care across the country.

[01:24:43] The Virginia Department of Social Services reports that in February 2025, there were 5,482 children in foster care in the Commonwealth of Virginia, 247 of whom were in Fairfax County. During the National Foster Care Month, we highlight the critical need for more foster families always and recognize the invaluable contributions of those who are already providing care.

[01:25:07] This month serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility we share to support and uplift the most vulnerable members of our community. Therefore, Mr. Chairman, without objection, we ask that we recognize May as National Foster Care Month in Fairfax County and direct the Office of Public Affairs to promote the importance of foster care and to urge residents to consider how they can support children and youth in need, whether through fostering, mentoring, volunteering, or advocating for policies that improve the foster care system.

[01:25:37] Thank you. Without objection, it's so ordered. Thank you, Madam Chair, Vice Chair. The next item is a joint item with Supervisor James Walkinshaw. And the board and the county have done a lot with invasives, particularly we've looked at bamboo and running bamboo as a big part of that.

[01:25:58] And we constantly still get questions. I still get questions about what to do, how to do it. And this is an opportunity, I think, to particularly address the running bamboo but other invasive issues. Invasive species, plants, animals, or diseases are those intentionally or accidentally introduced by human activity causing ecological or economic damage within a region in which they did not evolve.

[01:26:19] These species are usually characterized by unrestricted growth with few natural pests or predators. These qualities allow them to spread quickly, and they can aggressively outcompete desired native species causing harm to natural resources, humans, and the local economy.

[01:26:38] Invasive plants can also disrupt animal populations by outcompeting native vegetation, destroying habitats, and reducing food sources. They also alter ecosystems and reduce new pests or diseases and affect pollination systems, ultimately threatening biodiversity and species survival.

[01:26:57] In Fairbanks County, common invasive plants include running bamboo, kudzu, water chestnut, and tree of heaven, to name a few. Residents, businesses, non-profit organizations, and others are encouraged to stop purchasing and planting invasive plant species as well as remove them from their properties we need to continue community engagement and education on the importance of removing invasives from our lands in 2022 the county hosted a very successful virtual why are my oaks dying meeting with over 700 residents attending therefore chairman mckay i ask with unanimous consent that the board of

[01:27:35] supervisors direct the county executive to direct staff to present a spring virtual meeting on invasive plants and how residents can take action this should also be an opportunity to explain the county's bamboo ordinance and its implications and without objection that is so ordered supervisor store the next item I have is a verbal work actually a couple verbal verbal board matters I just want to remind folks that the next application round for the Fairfax founders fund FFF a program designed to fuel innovation and business growth opened

[01:28:12] yesterday march 17th and runs through april 21st fff or again fairfax founders fund provides selected early stage startups with up to 50 000 in funding capital to help startups develop their business and prepare for later stage investment the program seeks early stage high growth trajectory companies who can demonstrate their company has innovative technology path to commercialization a clear market opportunity and development milestones. So again, Fairfax County does a lot to help entrepreneurs and small businesses. This is an absolutely key way to do that. And the next item

[01:28:49] I want to mention is also a key way to do that. We have a brand new resource hub specifically designed for transitioning federal workers who are considering starting their own businesses. Fairfax Cores, which you all are familiar with, we've had for a number of years. Fairfax Cores from fed to founder was also recently launched this hub is a comprehensive source for former government employees and frankly anyone who wants to start or grow their business and finally I want to mention that as I've been doing that that March at March Fairfax County EDA pulse which you can get online is a

[01:29:28] great source of information on the office market workforce and commercial real estate trends so just encourage everybody to stay tuned and I guess learn more but but particularly recognize that we have some tough times ahead of us I think in the short term and we're going to need to encourage our small businesses and again do everything we can to help them thrive and support our federal employees who may have to be making a transition thank you mr.

[01:29:53] chairman thank you very much supervisor store well said supervisor Palchik thank you very much mr. chairman before I try to abbreviate some of my For written board matters, I did want to make a quick verbal announcement that we are hosting, once again, our Providence Earth Day celebration.

[01:30:14] It is a wonderful small community celebration, not trying to compete with the county parks one, but bringing it to one of our communities in Falls Church. It will be April 5th from 12 to 3 p.m. in collaboration with Neighborhood and Community Services at the Graham Road Community Building.

[01:30:31] We'll have land mowing, family-friendly activities, a mobility garden, education opportunities, giveaways, and more. And I want to thank Rov Slade, who will be hosting and organizing the mobility garden there. To that, I do have a couple of written board matters.

[01:30:50] The first one is a expedited board date and concurrent site plan processing for Hunter's Branch PCA 80-P-039-010, CDPA-80-P-039-002, and FDPA 80-P-039-09, and that's for RZPA-2023-PR-00105.

[01:31:22] Hopefully I don't have to repeat the whole thing again. Penning those zoning applications, I hope that's appropriate, request to redevelop the Hunter's Branch Office Complex, located tax about parcels 40-4, double parentheses 1, 1E, 1G, L1, and L2 in the Providence District with new residential and supportive commercial uses.

[01:31:46] The Planning Commission, by unanimous vote, recently recommended adoption of a concurrent comprehensive plan amendment for the Hunter's Branch property. Subject to final zoning details and approval, this redevelopment seeks to significantly reduce commercial office vacancy, create meaningful new housing opportunities, and establish new pedestrian connections and pedestrian safety measures within the Vienna Transit Station area, and I would add enhance and improve a stream restoration area that is in very bad shape right now. The project's applicant has worked diligently and collaboratively with staff, the community, and my office

[01:32:26] throughout the process, and there are no remaining community or staff concerns that cannot be resolved or that would significantly impact the site design. The Planning Commission public hearing for the zoning applications is scheduled for May 21, 2025. As the applicant works with county staff on the final details of the proposal, the applicant has requested expedited processing to establish a board public hearing date for the applications and concurrent site plan processing. Therefore, I move that the board authorize an expedited board date

[01:33:00] for RZPA-2023-PR-00105-PCA-80-P-039-010-CDPA-80-P-039-002 concurrent with FDPA-80-P-039-09 and to schedule a Board of Supervisors public hearing for june 10th 2025 secondly for the same reasons i have stated i move that the board of supervisors

[01:33:32] authorized concurrent site plan processing for these applications as always this motion should not be construed as a favorable recommendation by the board of supervisors on the proposed applications and does not relieve the applicant from compliance with the provisions of all Applicable ordinances regulations or adopted standards in any way nor does it prejudice in any way the board's consideration of the proposed applications Heard the motion. I'm happy to second that. Is there any discussion? Well, I want to confirm. It's okay I read it that way with our counsel. I hope and

[01:34:10] You made clear which applications you were referring to and then refer to them again as these applications Thank you And I do want to reiterate this is just the comprehensive plan amendment and as was mentioned there has been much community input including from former Providence supervisor and president of the neighboring association Linda Smith and a lot of improvement. So I Appreciate my board's consideration of the concurrent All those in favor of the motion, please say aye aye any opposed any abstentions that motion carries Supervisor Palachuk. Okay. Thank you very much

[01:34:48] mr. chairman I next have a joint board matter with with yourself and I'm happy to add a supervisor Berman I believe he's the other I know board member recognizing I know it for health system of the year members of the board each February health care professionals work across the country gather in Orlando to recognize individuals and organizations to make a profound impact on our lives at the annual health care experience awards and this year our very own I know INOVA was honored as the 2025 Health System of the Year, a recognition of its unwavering commitment to excellence

[01:35:25] in patient care, community health, and innovation. Headquartered in Fairfax, as many and hopefully all of us know, INOVA operates dozens of hospitals, clinics, and facilities, and is currently open to additional ones across the county, northern Virginia, providing world-class care, including, as was shared earlier, to one of our board members at this time.

[01:35:49] It's especially meaningful because it recognizes not just the institution, but the experiences of the patients. And I may say as a former patient that Dr. Jones and his leadership have truly showed a huge commitment to our community and to all of our patients and staff.

[01:36:06] Let's skip ahead a little bit. At the heart of I Know His Success is its people, the nurses, physicians, administrators, technicians, and facility staff. Without their dedication, there would only be buildings. without their care, only on answered needs. We are incredibly grateful for their service and recognize the impact of health care workers across our county, country, and our world.

[01:36:28] Therefore, I move that the board recognize I NOAA for its outstanding achievement as the 2025 Health Care Experience Health System of the Year, and I have a slight change. Additionally, I request that the Office of Public Affairs prepare a proclamation to be presented inside or outside the boardroom as appropriate for the future of the time.

[01:36:47] I'm happy to second that. Any discussion on the motion? Seeing and hearing none. All those in favor, please say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Any abstentions? That motion carries. Supervisor Palchuk. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. This next one is pretty exciting, and I believe the member from Tyson's Community Alliance, Jason Boggs, who has worked on this, is here in the audience and appreciate his commitment to our community.

[01:37:09] And this is to approve Wayfinding Science pilot project for the Tyson's Urban Center. This is jointly with Supervisors Alcorn and Bierman. Members of the board, the adoption of the 2010 Tysons plan marked the beginning of Tysons transformation from a suburban commercial center with office parks and shopping centers into a vibrant mixed-use urban center. The plan envisions a 24-hour downtown where people live, work, and play. Since its adoption, developers have delivered nearly 13 million square feet of new commercial and residential space across 39 buildings. Alongside this growth, Tysons has gained 41

[01:37:46] acres of new public park space and completed 41 transit, bicycle, and pedestrian mobility improvements, shaping it into a more walkable and sustainable urban center. As Tyson's continues to evolve, fostering a sense of place and community for residents, employees, and visitors is essential. Wayfinding signage will contribute to community building and advance the incredible investment of physical infrastructure that has occurred in Tyson's. Wayfinding is an effective tool that helps guide people through physical space and contributes to a sense of well-being and security. Wayfinding is also an effective placemaking tool and contributes to place

[01:38:23] identity. At My Direction, the Tyson's Community Alliance is implementing a wayfinding pilot project to further these goals. The pilot includes 11 strategically placed signs within park spaces owned by the Fairfax County Park Authority or adjacent major landowners. These signs will provide directional guidance to key streets, metro stations, landmarks, trails, and other significant locations, while also contributing to a cohesive brand identity for Tyson's. Signage designs are detailed in Exhibit A. The pilot project was presented to the Park

[01:38:56] Board as an information item on March 12, 2025. TCA is working closely with FCPA and the adjacent major landowners to finalize licensing agreements for sign installation and maintenance. This initiative reflects a long collaboration between TCA, the public sector, and private stakeholders, I am excited about the potential for future expansion.

[01:39:19] As determined by zoning administration, these signs meet the requirements outlined in Zoning Ordinance Section 7100.3.b, parenthesis 6, which states signs erected by a public agency or appropriate organization in partnership with the board located within or in proximity to the commercial revalidization district boundaries or mixed-use areas as identified in the comp plan.

[01:39:41] such signs are subject to approval by the Board and all applicable outdoor advertising provisions of the Code of Virginia. With Board approval and subject to the applicable outdoor advertising provisions, these signs will not require additional county permits. Therefore, under Zoning Ordinance Section 7100.3.b, parenthesis 6, I move that the Board approve the Tyson's Wayfinding Pilot Project signs in substantial conformance with those shown in Exhibit A and any future signs erected under the expansion of this project.

[01:40:14] Chair, we'll second that motion. Is there any discussion on the motion? Yes, Supervisor Palaszczuk. I just want to share briefly, and again, really want to thank Jason and then Katie Crystal and all the leadership. I think, as many of you know, there continues to be a discussion about improved walkability in Tyson's and in walking around many of our buildings and some of the new paths, and thanks to some of our FCDOT staff, we have many paths that are already in place, and many that are just unknown to people, even living there as they are erected.

[01:40:46] So the hope is that as we continue to improve walkability, just making it clear where there are path heads or walkways available, that it becomes easier to be able to know how to walk across Tysons more safely. All those in favor of the motion, please say aye.

[01:41:03] Aye. Any opposed? Any abstentions? That motion carries. Supervisor Palchuk. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I believe I have one on the line. Here we go. This is a joint board matter with Supervisor Walkinshaw, recognizing John Cook and Judge Razan Fias.

[01:41:23] Members of the board, after over 12 years of dedicated service on the Council to End Domestic Violence, John Cook and Razan Fias have stepped down in order to continue serving our community through other avenues. We sincerely appreciate their commitment and contributions to the county and thank them for the dedication.

[01:41:42] As many of you know, John Cook served on the Board of Supervisors from 2009 to 2019, emerging as both a prominent leader and a dedicated advocate for victims and survivors of domestic violence. His involvement with the Council to End Domestic Violence, first as a member and later as chair, reflects his unwavering commitment to mobilizing the community's energy and passion to prevent and end domestic violence.

[01:42:06] His leadership was marked by a pragmatic approach to governance, consistently prioritizing the community's interests while adeptly managing the complexities of public administration. He played a pivotal role in championing initiatives and creating momentum for new policies and initiatives, such as the Step Up for Kids Coalition, which unites the community to address the needs of children exposed to domestic violence.

[01:42:29] John socialized the idea of accountability for those who cause harm and brought this discourse into the coordinated community response. Even after he ended his term as CEDV chair, John volunteered his time to lead and mobilize the CEDV's accountability work group.

[01:42:47] Judge Fias began her legal career at Central Virginia Legal Aid Society in Charlottesville and would go on to work at the Tahiri Justice Center. When Judge Fias went on to establish her own private practice, she was well known within the Fairfax community for taking on domestic violence cases, sometimes pro bono.

[01:43:06] Judge Fias was also a well-respected and sought-after guardian ad litem, representing the best interests of children and incapacitated adults in some of the most challenging types of cases. Outside the courtroom, George Fias volunteered her time extensively in the community, serving on various committees for Fairfax Bar Association and the domestic violence community.

[01:43:27] She joined the Council of Denton Domestic Violence in 2013 as a community member representative, has been active in supporting new efforts, including the annual meeting, mapping the protective order process, and supporting both the Stronger Together and Safe Havens supervised visitation and exchange programs.

[01:43:45] Judge Fies also served on the Step Up for Kids Coalition as an attorney, volunteering her time and resources to provide training for guardians at Lytem. As an attorney, she's shown known for going beyond the courtroom to meet her clients' needs. I will go on and just share that this truly exemplifies her care and attention that Judge Fias had for her clients and community, and we are very delighted that she is now a judge in our community.

[01:44:12] Therefore, without objection, I move that a proclamation be prepared and presented to John Cook and Judge Rizan Fias at the Council to End Domestic Violence meeting on April 10th to honor their many years of dedicated service in Fairbanks County and their perseverance of good and justice. And without objection, that is so ordered, Supervisor Palchuk.

[01:44:32] That is all, Mr. Chairman. Okay. And that is all for board matters. We're going to move on to administrative items. And let me ask Supervisor Smith, is there a motion to approve admin items 1 through 10?

[01:44:47] I am going to make a motion to approve Admin Items 1 through 6, 9, and 10. And just for purposes of discussion, we will have a separate vote on Admin 7 and Admin 8, which of course are the potential caps for advertisement only of the potential meals tax and the real estate tax rate.

[01:45:12] And so you've heard the motion to approve the other administrative items. Is there any further discussion? Seeing and hearing that, hearing none, all those in favor, please say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Any abstentions? And that motion carries.

[01:45:28] And now I'm going to hand the gavel to Supervisor Smith so that I can make a motion on Admin 7 and Admin 8, which I mentioned earlier. Admin 7 is authorization to advertise a public hearing to consider amendments to the Code of the County of Fairfax, Virginia, Chapter 4, Taxation and Finance, by adding a new Article 31 relating to food and beverage tax.

[01:45:55] And let me first make the following motion. I move that the Board authorize staff to advertise a public hearing to be held on April 22, 2025 at 3 p.m. to consider adoption of an ordinance to amend Chapter 4 of the Fairfax County Code by adding a new Article 31 food and beverage tax with a maximum tax rate at implementation of 4% and the option to provide a seller's commission of up to 3% of the amount of tax collected as set forth in the draft ordinance.

[01:46:26] I'll second the motion with Supervisor Behrman. Mr. Chairman? Yes, just very briefly, we had an entire budget committee meeting dedicated to a conversation on this subject. And again, what we are doing here is authorizing for consideration through a public hearing the implementation of a potential meals tax.

[01:46:46] The Commonwealth of Virginia allows jurisdictions to implement a meals tax up to and including 6% as the cap. My motion asks us to consider implementation of a potential meals tax at a cap at 4%.

[01:47:03] And just to be clear for folks, when we authorize this, we are authorizing the maximum amount that can be implemented. So anything below that number is still permissible within the span of this motion. But this motion is to advertise it with a maximum tax rate implementation potentially of 4%.

[01:47:24] And again, as was mentioned before, the public hearing to be held on April 22nd, 2025 is consistent with public hearings associated with the budget this year. And we want to make sure that we have a public hearing on a potential meals tax in concert for full transparency and disclosure in concert with the annual adoption of the Fairfax County budget and related financial documents so that folks can understand the choices that we have before us.

[01:47:54] Supervisor Elkhorn. Thank you, and I just want to thank the chairman and you, Madam Vice Chairman, for, I know, there have been a lot of one-on-one conversations. This is not, you know, this is the first time we've met as a board.

[01:48:11] You know, I know I'm in the minority on this. I would like to have seen us going a little higher on the meals tax, but I want to just throw this out there as something I'm not sure we can do with 4%. we might be able to. It's going to be a little tougher. But I would like to see us move the affordable housing penny or penny and a quarter onto the meals tax. So I think that's a way in the long run we can provide some relief on the real estate tax and still meet our affordable

[01:48:47] housing goals. I'm not saying it's impossible at 4%. It's just it's going to be a little tougher. But I just wanted to make sure at least the board knew my thoughts on that. So thank you, Mr. Chairman. Supervisor Palchuk.

[01:49:04] Thank you, Madam Chair. And as many of you, we've had many conversations and many more to be had. I did want to thank the staff. We had a very, I think, productive town hall with the community not long ago. And we've been meeting with many of the groups.

[01:49:20] So like you, you know, I appreciate that we have, you know, the ability to continue this conversation and understand. I agree that we need to be able to address our affordable housing needs. We also need to be able to address our education needs, our park needs, you know, our community and our resident needs.

[01:49:42] So, you know, I've never been at a situation where we had so many items and so many cuts that we were looking at in our budget at once across so many agencies. So I do think that we probably have our own opinions of where we are right now, but we definitely, in my opinion, need continued engagement conversations and to hear from the community before making that final decision.

[01:50:08] I would be very comfortable going ahead with the 4%. I know we may not all be there, but I appreciate that we can continue to have that conversation. And again, this is just a part of the process as we move forward. And I really do hope that we and the advocates for all areas of the budget continue to encourage our residents to communicate with us and to come to our public hearings and testify and share where they are on these really difficult times.

[01:50:37] Seeing no further discussion, all those in favor of the motion, please say aye. Aye. Anyone opposed? Any abstention? That motion carries, Mr. Chairman. Thank you very much. Vice Chairman Smith, I now have a motion for Admin 8, and Admin 8 is authorization to advertise publication of the FY2026 budget and required tax rates, the FY2026 effective tax rate increase, the advertised capital improvement program for fiscal years 2026 to 2030, with future fiscal years to 2035, and notice of associated public hearings.

[01:51:09] And let me first make the following motion. Madam Chairman, I move authorization, advertised publication of the FY2026 advertised budget, the effective tax rate increase, the increased capital improvement, I'm sorry, the advertised capital improvement program, required tax rates as outlined in administrative item 8, and give notice of associated public hearings.

[01:51:31] This includes the advertisement of a real estate tax rate of $1.14 per $100 of assessed value, which reflects a potential one and a half cent increase over the current real estate tax rate of $1.12 and a half per $100 of assessed value.

[01:51:47] I'll second that along with Supervisor Palchuk. Discussion? Yes, just very briefly, Madam Vice Chair, again, this is the cap. This is the figure that was used in the county executive's budget presentation as the recommended tax rate, as was spoken about in the conversation about the meals tax.

[01:52:07] We have a lot of time here before any adoption of any budget takes place, and we certainly are building ourselves in some flexibility here by advertising this increase, but should not be necessarily construed as support by this board for the increase because, of course, we have extensive public hearings town halls a number of meetings with a number of groups that take place every budget season where we can discuss the pros and cons of the actions that we must take to balance our budget when it comes time budget adoption and so this is a responsible in my opinion a responsible motion that reflects the information that the

[01:52:47] county executive gave to us in his presentation so that we can have a full robust conversation before adoption. Seeing no further discussion, all those in favor of the motion, please say aye. Aye. Anyone opposed? Any abstention? That motion carries. Mr. Chairman. Thank you, Vice Chairman Smith. And we are going to move on to our action items, and there are two. And our first action item is approval of the disease-carrying insects program. Supervisor Walkenjohn. Thank you, Mr.

[01:53:13] Chairman. Move approval of the county executive's recommendation on action item one. You've heard the motion. It's been multiply seconded. Any discussion on the motion? Seeing and hearing none. All those in favor of the motion please say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Any abstentions? That motion carries and action item number two is approval of the calendar year 2025 Forest Health Program.

[01:53:37] Supervisor Walkinshaw. I move approval of the county executive's recommendation on action item two. Second. And that's been moved and seconded by Supervisor Lusk and the chairman. Any discussion on the motion supervisor alcorn very quickly there's really good information in this uh so i actually learned several things and we have some real challenges in terms of our tree canopy i know we have goals you know and we're trying to increase our tree canopy so this i want to thank staff this is very helpful stuff thank you supervisor alcorn supervisor walking yeah i

[01:54:12] I planted a tree in my front yard this weekend, so I read this in great detail to make sure I know what to look out for. But our staff does do, this is one of those unsung things that people in the community might not know that we do, but really some incredible, very important work being done here by our staff.

[01:54:30] Thank you, Supervisor Walkinshaw. Seeing no further conversation, all those in favor of action two, please say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Any abstentions? That motion carries. And we have one consideration item, and that is adoption of resolutions dissolving the Fairfax County Citizen Corps Council, the Oversight Committee on Distracted and Impaired Driving, and the Airports Advisory Committee.

[01:54:56] And we have staff here if there are any questions related to this consideration item. But before that, let me ask Supervisor Smith if she has a motion to put on the table. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I move adoption of three resolutions dissolving the Fairfax County Citizen Corps Council, the Oversight Committee on Distracted and Impaired Driving, and the Airports Advisory Committee.

[01:55:17] And I will second that motion. Is there any discussion or questions from staff? Any discussion or questions from staff? I'm not seeing any, and I know that's because of—ah, Supervisor Alcorn. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Yeah, I'm going to be supporting this, but I have heard from constituents with concern about the Airports Advisory Committee And I just want to emphasize, I know that's something this board has talked about, and there's a majority position on the board on some of the actions that have been taken.

[01:55:47] And I actually concur with removing it, because until there's a different approach by this board, I'm not sure, particularly as it relates to updating the noise contours, I don't know if this is really useful.

[01:56:03] So I will be supporting the motion. Thank you. Thank you, Supervisor Alcorn. And I should acknowledge I also have the original letter from the chair of the airports advisory committee also supporting this action. And I want to thank the staff who's working on our boards, authorities, and commissions because we, you know, Fairfax County is a great place to live because of the input from our residents.

[01:56:26] But I think we also have to balance that with making sure that we have the right committees at the right time Focused on the right issues and that it also requires a lot of staff support To be able to support these various boards authorities and commissions and that work is ongoing looking at these That this you know, these are not three that we are dissolving today and then we're done with that work There's additional work to be had but in these particular three instances as the board matter does a really good job outlining certainly are ones that are are have gone beyond their useful

[01:57:02] life have been overtaken by other events or other groups and you know it's time for us just to to do the hard work of cleaning those up and i want to thank the staff for all the work that they've done on the item to get to this point uh supervisor menace thank you mr chairman and just one quick comment on this our residents are volunteering and so i hope that as these uh go away for the time being I hope that staff is able to reach out to every single volunteer and let them know what's happening so I don't want them just to like have this like we never heard from anyone you just kind of we won't there's no meetings and they're kind of in limbo I just want to make

[01:57:39] sure that there's a process in place to let them know that you know we were thankful for their service in their time Brian Fuller with the office of the County Executive yes we are making sure to notify each and every appointee that on these BACs. And, you know, to that point, Supervisor Jimenez, I also want to point out that, you know, these are volunteers, and we have a lot of staff dedicated to supporting these committees, but it's also our responsibility to make sure these are a good use of time for these volunteers, and many of them will continue to stay engaged on these very important issues through other avenues, but we also want to be cognizant of, you know, respecting our

[01:58:19] Volunteers and their time and energy as well and making sure that it's channeled and in the most productive ways we can Supervisor Smith. I want to thank Brie and the staff and and the staff members that coordinate these Advisory committees it really is important because we want to have efficient government and we want to make sure we use the public's time wisely And so as this work continues staff will be looking to see can we combine committees which ones really serve their purpose, and I think it's an important process. As the county executive looked at our business process to look for efficiencies, we have a responsibility to do that, too, so thank

[01:58:56] you. Thank you, Supervisor Smith, and I will say this is something that, you know, many of us have been wanting to get to for years. We discussed this well before COVID hit. It kind of got put on ice, but, you know, we have a lot of ways for citizens to be involved in this community, arguably more than anywhere else in the country and again you know it's time to just make sure we're we're modernizing that list and making sure it meets the needs of the community and of the board at this point in time and so I do think this is responsible and look forward to additional changes we might need to make just to make sure we're staying up to speed with that all those in favor of

[01:59:34] the consideration item please say aye aye any opposed any abstentions and that motion carries. And that brings us to closed session. And before I turn to Supervisor Smith for a motion to bring us into closed session, I know everyone has received a copy of the agenda for closed session. Let me ask the county attorney how long we need. Mr. Chairman, I estimate approximately 90 minutes. An hour and a half. And our first public hearing, and we have a lot of public hearings today, a lot more than normal, begins at 3.30. So we're going to want to report

[02:00:09] to close session at 2 o'clock and make sure we stay in that 90-minute window so that we can begin our public hearings promptly at 3:30 and so let me turn to Supervisor Smith for a motion mr. chairman I move that the Board of Supervisors recess and go into closed session for discussion and consideration of matters enumerated in Virginia code section 2.2 - 3 7 1 1 enlisted in the attached agenda for this meeting and in addition as permitted by Virginia code section 2.2 dash three seven one one a seven and eight brookfield washington llc versus fairfax

[02:00:46] county virginia court of appeals record number 2020-23-4 and fairfax workers coalition at all versus fairfax county at all fairfax county circuit court case number cl-2025-0003246 And as permitted by Virginia Code section 2.2-3711A8 and 19 and section 2.2-3705.2, 2 and parrins, and 14, briefing regarding tactical security plans for the county government center,

[02:01:23] where discussion in an open meeting would jeopardize safety and security. And as permitted by Virginia Code section 2.2-3711A1, annual evaluation of the county executive. You've heard the motion. We'll second that along with Supervisor Paucik. Is there any discussion?

[02:01:41] Seeing and hearing none. All those in favor of the motion, please say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Any abstentions? That motion carries, and so the board will recess and will report to closed session exactly at 2 p.m.

[02:01:55] so that we can begin our 3.30 public hearings on time. Back from closed session, and before we begin

[02:11:42] this afternoon's public hearings, I am going to look to Supervisor Smith for a motion. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I move that the Board of Supervisors certify that, to the best of each member's knowledge, only public business matters lawfully exempted from the open meeting requirements by virtue of Virginia Code Section 2.2-3711, and only such public business matters as were identified in the motion by which closed session was convened, were heard, discussed, or considered by the Board of Supervisors during the closed session.

[02:12:12] Chair, we'll second that motion along with Supervisor Lusk. Any discussion on the motion? Seeing and hearing none, all those in favor, please say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Any abstentions? That motion carries, and there were no motions coming out of closed session, so we are going to begin our afternoon public hearings.

[02:12:31] And just a few reminders for folks who are here. Individuals wishing to provide testimony have a number of options. They can testify here in person, or they can provide testimony by phone or by YouTube video. At the designated point in the public hearing, I'll call for any speakers from the speakers list, and they will either come forward, or their video will be shown, or they will be connected by telephone.

[02:12:52] There will then be an opportunity for anyone else who would like to speak to the matter to come down to the podium or to call in at 703-324-1020. Speakers testifying by video must have signed up and submitted their video no later than 9 a.m. on the day prior to the public hearing.

[02:13:10] For public hearing testimony, you're given three minutes to speak as an individual. If you're the spokesperson for a group, you are given five minutes. And with that, we have a lot of public hearings this afternoon, so we're going to try to keep things as tight as we can and respectful to the time, especially for folks who have signed up to testify.

[02:13:28] And with that, I'm going to call our first case, which is a public hearing on SEA 85-D-097-06, the Potomac School in the Drainesville District, and could we please have the applicant reaffirm the affidavit?

[02:13:49] David, dated January 23rd, 2025. Thank you very much. Are there any disclosures from board members? Any disclosures from board members? Seeing and hearing none, I will now recognize county staff for a staff presentation.

[02:14:08] Good evening, Mr. Chairman, members of the board. My name is Carl Shumate, and I'm with the Department of Planning and Development. The applicant operates the Potomac School, a private school including nursery school through 12th grade in McLean. The 90-acre site is zoned R1 and is accessed by Potomac School Road to the north.

[02:14:26] The applicant seeks to amend Development Condition No. 45 of previously approved SEA 85-D-097-5, increasing the number of modular classrooms from 3 to 7, and moving the location from a parking lot to an existing softball field.

[02:14:43] In this way, there would be no disruption to the drop-off and pickup of students, which currently takes place in this parking lot. Furthermore, this new location is farther away from the surrounding neighborhoods and closer to existing school facilities. Prior to bond release of the associated site plan for the new lower and middle school improvements, the applicant will remove the modular classrooms from the field and restore the disturbed area.

[02:15:05] Overall, staff finds the proposed changes to be in conformance with the zoning ordinance and in harmony with the comprehensive plan. This concludes my presentation. Thank you very much for that. We now recognize the applicant for an applicant's presentation. Good afternoon again.

[02:15:21] Lori Greenleaf with McGuire Woods. Potomac School has been proudly serving the Fairfax County area since 1949, and I'll do the math for you. That's 76 years. And over those 76 years, as you can imagine, there have been several amendments to the original approval, and over those seven decades, there have been approvals for replacement of certain buildings.

[02:15:44] As staff has explained, this is a fairly simple, straightforward application to relocate and reorganize some temporary modular classrooms that were approved back in 2007. These modular classrooms are associated with the reconstruction and renovation of the middle school building.

[02:16:03] As staff mentioned, the proposed location was on an existing parking lot, and that has proven to not be ideal from a traffic circulation standpoint, but also from a safety standpoint for the children. Accessing the trailers on the field where they're proposed is a much safer alternative.

[02:16:22] And this new location pushes the trailers farther down into this 90-acre site, ensuring that they will not be visible from off-site. These classrooms are temporary, and the area will be restored to the ball field once the construction is finished and the building can be occupied.

[02:16:40] As staff has explained, the only change is to Condition 45, which was actually worded very specifically back in 2007 and did not allow for any flexibility in location or size of these trailers. All the other conditions will remain the same. Potomac School has had a very deep and productive relationship with the Evermay Subdivision, which abuts this 90-acre property, and I believe you have in the record a letter of support from the Evermay Subdivision.

[02:17:07] We appreciate staff's review. We concur with their positive conclusions in the staff report. We agree with the development conditions as amended in a memo dated February 20th, and we respectfully request that you follow the Planning Commission's unanimous recommendation for approval and approve this amendment.

[02:17:26] I'll be happy to answer any questions. Thank you very much. Are there any questions of staff or the applicant? Not seeing or hearing any. This is a public hearing. I have no speakers who have signed up in advance to testify on this matter. Is there anyone here in the auditorium that wishes to speak on this subject?

[02:17:43] This is a public hearing. Anyone who wishes to testify? Seeing and hearing no one, let me ask the clerk if anyone has called in. There are no callers. There are no callers. I assume the applicant waives rebuttal. Closing comments and a recommendation from county staff. On February 26th, the Planning Commission recommended approval of the application subject to development conditions dated February 20th, 2025.

[02:18:08] Staff concurs with those recommendations. Thank you. Last check. Questions from board members. Supervisor Beerman. I just want to confirm a letter from the Evermay Community Association was mentioned by the applicant. Is that officially part of the record? And if not, can we add it to it?

[02:18:27] I'm sorry. We don't have that in record. Okay. Well, I would like to just add it to the record, and I'll give you a copy. Not mine, which is highlighted with the good parts, but we'll give you a copy to add to the record. Okay.

[02:18:42] Thank you, Supervisor Beerman. Any other questions? Seeing and hearing none. I will now close the public hearing and recognize Supervisor Beerman for a motion. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Chairman, I request that the applicant confirm for the record their agreement to the development conditions dated February 20th, 2025.

[02:19:02] Yes, the applicant is in agreement with those conditions. Thank you. I move that the Board of Supervisors approve SEA 85-D-097-06, subject to the development conditions dated February 20th, 2025.

[02:19:18] I also move that the Board of Supervisors recommend approval of the requested modifications of the transitional screening and barrier requirements along the property lines to that shown in the SEA plan. I've heard the motion. It's been seconded by Supervisor Palczyk. Any discussion on the motion?

[02:19:36] This is a fairly straightforward case. I wish the Potomac School the best of luck with respect to their new middle school. I didn't make any disclosures earlier, but I will disclose that when I was in high school, I beat Potomac all four years in football.

[02:19:55] But other than that, glad to see this happening and glad to have the support of the neighborhood of the Evermay Community Association. Thank you. Thank you very much, Supervisor Beerman. With that said, all those in favor of the motion, please say aye.

[02:20:13] Aye. Any opposed? Any abstentions? And that motion carries. Thank you. Thank you. Next, we have a public hearing on SCA 2007-MA-019, PMG, Northern Virginia, LLC, in the Mason District.

[02:20:30] And when the applicant is ready, could you please come forward and reaffirm the affidavit? Yes. Good afternoon, Mr. Chairman. My name is David Gill with Wiregill, and I'm here to reaffirm the affidavit dated February 26, 2025. Thank you very much. Are there any disclosures from board members?

[02:20:46] Any disclosures from board members? seeing and hearing none. I will now recognize county staff for a staff presentation. Hi, I'm Ciara Downing from the Department of Planning and Development. This application requests approval of a special exception amendment to demolish the existing vehicle fueling station with a light vehicle repair and maintenance building and construction, a new fueling station with a convenience store. The subject cell station occupies the northeast corner of the intersection

[02:21:21] of Backlick and Industrial Road. The site is zoned to the General Industrial District I-5 and Highway Corridor Overlay District and is planned for industrial. The surrounding properties are zoned I-5 and I-6 as well. The proposal includes a 3,982.5 square foot convenience store on the eastern side of the parcel. Directly behind the proposed convenience store is their proposed soil as well as vegetation plantings. New fuel pumps are proposed to be located in the middle of the parcel parallel to the convenience store and Backlick Road. The number of fuel pumps is proposed to

[02:22:00] increase from four to six allowing up to 12 cars. Several additional commitments are proposed and include upgrades to the trails along Backlick and Industrial Road, new landscaping, stormwater management facilities on the site, green building initiatives, and a modern building with similar architectural treatments on all four sides of the buildings staff finds the proposal to be in harmony with the comprehensive plan and in conformance with the zoning ordinance thank you this concludes my presentation thank you very much for that at this time I'd recognize the applicant for an applicants presentation yes I appreciate it begin would be in front of

[02:22:40] you here again today this application I think is relatively straightforward unfortunately what you've seen with a lot of these older service stations with these service bays is that they've become obsolete over time the existing operator is over 25 has been working here for more than 25 years and has decided to retire and we're not able to find any way to replace him or find the upgrades to deal with modern cars and to make those repairs and so they really are looking to pivot to this c-store concept uh the good news is part of that is you see a lot of the upgrades that you have in front of you that includes the trails on both sides extensive landscaping in front, new modern stormwater controls that you just frankly didn't

[02:23:20] have when this was a service station originally. So we end up with a better environmental outcome, better stormwater outcome, better aesthetic outcome, and we're particularly excited about this application. It does have the endorsement of the Mason District Land Use Committee and the U.S. Support of the Planning Commission, and therefore we respectfully request your support here today. Happy to answer any questions. Thank you. Thank you very much. Are there any questions of staff or the applicant. Seeing and hearing none, this is a public hearing and I have no one who has signed up in advance to testify on this matter. This is a public hearing. Is there anyone present who would like to testify on this subject? Anyone present who would like to testify on this

[02:23:57] subject? This is a public hearing. Seeing and hearing no one. Let me check if we have any callers. There are no callers. There are no callers. Assume the applicant waives rebuttal. Closing comments sent a recommendation from county staff. On February 2nd, 2025, the Planning Commission recommended approval of the application subject to the development conditions dated January 23rd, 2025, and recommended approval of the waivers and modifications discussed in the staff report.

[02:24:26] Staff concurs with those recommendations. Excellent. Thank you. Last check, questions from board members. Seeing and hearing none, I will close the public hearing and recognize supervisor Jimenez for a motion. Mr. Chairman I request that the applicant confirm for their for the record their agreement to the development conditions dated January 23rd 2025. We agree to the conditions so dated. Thank you. Mr. Chairman with that I move that the Board of Supervisors approve SEA-2007-MA-019 subject to development conditions dated January 23rd 2025. I further

[02:25:03] move that the board of supervisors approve a waiver of the requirement for a vehicle fueling station with a convenience store to be part of the industrial building or complex complex in section 4102.5.cc and 4102.5 and of the zoning ordinance in favor of the redevelopment shown on the sea i'm happy to second that motion along with supervisor lusk discussion on the motion Seeing and hearing none. All those in favor of the motion, please say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Any abstentions? And that motion carries. Thank you very much.

[02:25:41] Our next hearing is a public hearing on PCA 88-D-005-12, RZPA 2022-PR-00001, Board of Supervisors of Fairfax County, Virginia, in the Providence District.

[02:26:02] and could we please have the applicant reaffirm the affidavit? I, James Sun, as the applicant's agent, reaffirmed the affidavit dated March 7, 2025. Thank you very much. Any disclosures from board members? Disclosures from board members, seeing and hearing none, I will now recognize county staff for a staff presentation.

[02:26:34] Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I'm sending in from the Department of Planning and Development. The 4.05-acre site is located in Tysons, founded by Dulles Airport Access Road to the north, Spring Hill Road to the west, and Jones Branch Drive to the south.

[02:26:56] The subject site is Zone C3 and developed with the Tyson's West Park Bus Transit Station. The site is proposed to be redeveloped with a new fire station and a new bus transit facility. The fire station will be developed as a two-story building with five bays, while the new bus transit facility will be a one-story building with five bus levies.

[02:27:22] A total of 45 parking spaces will be provided to serve the two users. A 0.2 FAR is proposed. Access to the site is from Jones Branch Drive. Site improvements include new streetscape and a shared use path along Jones Branch Drive and Spring Hill Road and improved on-site stormwater management.

[02:27:44] The proposed development also facilitates a future on-ramp onto the Dallas Toe Road from the site. Here are the architectural renderings showing the new fire station and the new bus transit facility.

[02:28:00] This concludes my presentation. Thank you. Thank you very much. At this time, we'd welcome the presentation or any comments from the applicant. Good afternoon. I am James Thon, Project Manager with the Department of Public Works and Environmental Services.

[02:28:19] I'm here representing the Board of Supervisors as the applicant, and with me today are my colleagues from DPWES, our design team, and representatives from the Fire and Rescue Department. I want to first thank Son Yang and Marianne Tai from the Department of Planning and Development for their invaluable support in this application.

[02:28:40] The Tyson's Fire Station 29 project was adopted into the Comprehensive Plan in 2010 to address the rapid growth and urbanization of Tyson's.

[02:28:57] And funding was approved by the voters in the 2024 public safety bond referendum. Our current fire station, built in 1978, is no longer meeting the community's needs due to its limited capacity and aging facilities.

[02:29:13] The new five-bay facility will be double the size of the old station and be provided with modern features to ensure fast response times to calls. The new facility provides separated work areas and living spaces and decontamination areas to protect the safety of our firefighters.

[02:29:31] as well as much-needed gyms and facilities to maintain fitness standards. The new facility is also designed with individual gender-neutral bunk rooms and bathrooms to allow additional flexibility in staffing. The proposed location at 8300 Jones Branch Drive is owned by the county and is the current site of the West Park Bus Transit Facility.

[02:29:57] It is ideally situated just a half mile from the current fire station site and right off of the Dulles Toll Road. This four-acre lot is currently underutilized and can accommodate the co-location of the fire station and the transit facility. By phasing the project, we can develop the site without disrupting current operations for both facilities without the need for temporary facilities.

[02:30:24] This site serves as a visual bridge connecting the residential communities to the north and the Tysons community. With this in mind, we are enhancing the streetscape with eight-foot landscape amenity panels and providing wider pedestrian shared use paths. There will also be a small plaza with bicycle storage and a space for capital bike share.

[02:30:54] We are making significant improvements to the stormwater detention, retention, and treatment on site. Our site includes an open-bottom stormwater vault, bio-retention facilities, native landscaping, and pervious pavement. Even though this is a co-located facility, we are not increasing the impervious area.

[02:31:14] Designed by Grimm and Parker Architects, the Fire Station and Transit Center are set to be a dynamic and exciting addition to Tyson's. The new transit facility, with its glass facade and entry plaza, creates a transparent and welcoming environment. Both buildings contribute to a bold contemporary aesthetic through a shared palette of materials and visually reach across the central parking lot to create a unified site.

[02:31:37] Next slide. Both buildings are designed to be high-performing and environmentally friendly, targeting LEED Gold certification. A geothermal ground source heat pump system for HVAC combined with advanced envelope design reduces the baseline energy use of the building by 50 percent rooftop solar panels offset the remaining energy load to achieve a net zero energy in both buildings to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels both buildings are designed to be all electric and two electric vehicle charging stations will be provided on site in summary the tyson's fire station 29 and bus transit facility is a vital

[02:32:13] investment in tyson's in the tyson's future by co-locating these facilities we're boosting public safety, enhancing transportation infrastructure, and advancing sustainable development. Thank you for your time and consideration. We're here to answer any questions you might have.

[02:32:31] Thank you very much. For that presentation, are there any questions of staff or the applicant? Yes. Supervisor Stork to be followed by Supervisor Alcorn. Is this a true net zero energy building? Yes. So the 50% reduces the building load, and then the rest of the energy that is required by the buildings are offset by the solar PV panels.

[02:32:54] So it's 100% offset by the panels plus the geothermal? You're not needing to bring in net zero, not needing to bring in non-carbon emitting power from the outside in order to get to net zero?

[02:33:11] Well, it's tied to the grid. So yes, the photovoltaics do contribute enough energy to provide for the entire facility net. But you expect to generate enough energy on site to offset whatever it's likely to generate over a period of time?

[02:33:27] That's correct, yeah. Thank you. Very good. Pleased to hear that. Mr. Chairman. Yes, Supervisor Alcorn. Just very quickly, so it looks like the ultimate configuration will have a new access point to the Dulles Toll Road with the new toll booth.

[02:33:43] Is that correct? That's correct. The access ramp is a separate project by Fairfax County Department of Transportation. All right, that's, I think, good news. We're looking, actually, there may be other places along the Dulles Toll Road where such a ramp would be extremely useful, well. So thank you very much. Thank you, Supervisor Alcorn. Are there any other questions of staff or the applicant? Seeing and hearing none, this is a public hearing and I have no one signed up in advance to testify on this matter. Is there anyone here present who would like to speak on this subject? This is a public hearing. Anyone who would like to testify on this matter? Seeing and hearing

[02:34:20] no one, let me ask the clerk if we have any callers. No callers. No callers. Assume the applicant waives rebuttal. Closing comments and a recommendation from county staff. On February 5, 2025, the Planning Commission recommended approval of the application subject to the executed proffers dated January 15, 2025, and the requested waivers and modifications. Staff concurs with the Planning Commission's recommendation and finds the application is in conformance with the comprehensive plan and applicable zoning ordinance provisions. Thank you.

[02:34:53] Thank you very much. Last check, questions from board members. Seeing and Hearing none, I will now close the public hearing and recognize Supervisor Palchuk for a motion. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. And first of all, I also want to go ahead and thank our staff, both Sunny Yang and Mary Ann Tsai from DPD and the whole DPWES team.

[02:35:12] This has been several years in the making, not to mention our fire department, FCDOT, and I know many others who've been involved. These are capital projects by the county. And as you've mentioned, 100% offset between geothermal and photovoltaic.

[02:35:30] So we have a net zero co-located building using great use of about four acres of land. A great welcoming, I would say, to Tysons from those coming from the Drainsville District or off the toll road. It's beautiful.

[02:35:46] It improves the walkability. I very much appreciate the bike infrastructure, both the storage facilities, the safe storage, and the bike share. The replanting, the ultimate condition, which is a separate agency that we'll be working on that, and the LEED Gold.

[02:36:06] I mean, this really is an incredible facility, and I think, I'm trying to remember when we first started. I said this at our last meeting, but it is a great improvement. And not to mention, last time I went over to Station 29, the women's facilities are much in need of improvement.

[02:36:24] So I appreciate that these will be gender-neutral and much better living spaces and quarters for our Fire Station 29. So to that, I do have two motions. The first, Mr. Chairman, I move that the Board of Supervisors approve PCA 88-D-005-12, Subject to the executed proffers dated January 15, 2025, and I further move that the Board of Supervisors approve the waivers and modifications contained in the handout dated February 5, 2025, which will be made part of the public record.

[02:37:01] You've heard the motion. I'm happy to second that, along with Supervisor Alcorn. Any further discussion on the motion? Seeing and hearing none. All those in favor, please say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Any abstentions? And that motion carries. Thank you all very much. Well done.

[02:37:18] Our next public hearing is on RZ 2024-DR-00014, concurrent with SEA 2021-DR-004, Falls Church Propco LLC, in the Drainesville District.

[02:37:39] And as soon as the applicant is ready, if you could please reaffirm the affidavit. Good afternoon, Chairman, members of the Board. My name is Kathy Taylor from the law firm of Walsh Colucci. I reaffirmed the affidavit dated December 19th, 2024. Thank you very much.

[02:37:55] Are there any disclosures from Board members? Any disclosures from Board members? Seeing and hearing none, I will now recognize County staff for a staff presentation. Good afternoon, Mr. Chairman and members of the Board. I'm Karen Yu from the Department of Planning and Development. The subject property is an existing medical care facility located on 2100 Powhatan Street.

[02:38:16] A special exception was previously approved on the site to permit a medical care facility for up to 160 beds, and this special exception is still in use today. The applicant is requesting to rezone approximately 4.78 acres of the site from R1 to the R4 zoning district.

[02:38:32] The applicant is also requesting special exception amendment to permit a 11,869-square-foot addition along the eastern facade of the existing medical care facility. The addition will allow for 18 private units. The applicant is not proposing any additional beds, which will remain at 160.

[02:38:51] Site modifications include the winding of the entrance at Powhatan Street from 25 to 30 feet and a reduction of the surface parking spaces from 106 to 93 spaces. That concludes that presentation. Thank you. Thank you.

[02:39:10] Okay, any questions of what I need the applicant? May I have the applicant's presentation? Thank you. Good afternoon, members of the board. My name is Kathy Taylor again from Walsh Colucci. It's a pleasure to bring this request before you. If you recall, the applicant was here back in 2021 for a simple change in ownership of the longstanding nursing home.

[02:39:30] If you recall, it was previously known, if you can see the slide, it was previously known as the Powhatan Nursing Home, which has been offering rehabilitation services and nursing care since 1965. When the most recent SE was approved in 2021, there was actually only 20 residents in the facility, although it could hold 160 beds.

[02:39:52] Since the applicant took ownership of the nursing home, it's changed the name to VR Falls Church. It's made significant internal renovations to refurbish and update the aging facility. And I understand now it's grown significantly, and there is an occupancy of around 135 to 145 residents.

[02:40:08] So as such, currently, as noted, the approved number of beds is 160. It's comprised primarily of semi-private double occupancy 72 rooms and only eight single single occupancy private rooms. There has been a growing demand for more privacy amongst the residents so this is the impetus of creating this new wing in the facility and that would meet the demand for these these private rooms as well as improve the quality of life for its residents at the existing facility. Despite the increase in the number of of rooms, as noted, the number of beds will not change. That will remain 160. As such, there would

[02:40:47] be no new traffic generation. And this is the new facility. You can see the site plan. I won't go through the architectural design. I will note, though, that the applicant is proposing to integrate sustainable design practices in the construction of the new wing to support and advance community health and wellness. With these applications, we have proposed a number of development conditions.

[02:41:10] happy to go through any of those if there are any questions lastly I will note because this application or this nursing facility is nestled right in the middle of a residential community we did do a number of outreach efforts just to make sure that the community aware was aware of what's going on that includes an informational meeting and several letters out to the various residents as well as surrounding HOAs again happy to talk through any of that we did get positive feedback generally from the community.

[02:41:40] In the end, as noted, the applicant's proposal will allow for the betterment of a high-quality nursing care facility in Fairfax County and will continue to provide much-needed housing and valuable services to the seniors of this county. This is a medical care facility. It was also presented to the Health Care Advisory Board, who provided a recommendation of approval, and we have also received recommendations of approval both from staff as well as the Planning Commission.

[02:42:04] With that, I'm happy to answer any questions you may have. Thanks. you very much for that presentation are there any questions of staff or the applicant not seeing or hearing any this is a public hearing is there anyone here I have no no speakers who signed up in advance is there anyone here who wishes to testify on this specific matter this is a public hearing anyone who wishes to testify seeing and hearing no one let me ask if we have callers there are no callers no callers assume the applicant waves rebuttal closing comments and a recommendation from county staff. On February 5, 2025, the Planning Commission recommended approval

[02:42:44] of the subject applications. Staff concurs with the approval. Thank you very much. Are there any questions, final questions from board members? Seeing and hearing none, I will now close the public hearing and recognize Supervisor Beerman for a motion. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I just wanted to make a few quick notes about this plan. The proposed addition contains 18 private units, so we will have more private units within this facility but the overall number of beds remains at 160 the applicant is working on planting new trees which would total a 10-year tree canopy of 15,000 square feet the

[02:43:24] application still provides nearly five acres of open space their news there's six new bicycle parking spots proposed there are two new electric vehicle charging stations proposed. There's stormwater runoff addressed through two bioretention facilities and one underground storage facility. And I think you also heard about some of the low impact development practices as well. So I think this is a good application and I'm happy to move it. Mr. Chairman, I request that the applicant confirm for the record their agreement to the development conditions dated January 22nd, 2025. Yes, on behalf of the applicant, we do agree to

[02:44:03] those conditions dated January 22nd, 2025. Thank you. Mr. Chairman, I move that the Board of Supervisors approve RZ-2024-DR-00014, subject to the executed proffers dated January 28th, 2025.

[02:44:21] Approve SEA-2021-DR004, subject to the development conditions dated January 22nd, 2025. I also move that the Board of Supervisors approve of the requested waiver and modification as contained in the handout dated January 31st, 2025.

[02:44:43] Happy to second that motion along with Supervisor Palczyk. Any discussion on the motion? Discussion on the motion? Seeing and hearing none. All those in favor, please say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Any abstentions? That motion carries. Thank you very much. Next up, we have a public hearing on RZ 2024-FR-00007, concurrent with SC 2024-FR-00017, Burgundy Farm Country Day School, Incorporated, in the Franconia District.

[02:45:17] And could we please have the applicant reaffirm the affidavit? Good afternoon, Mr. Chair, members of the board. My name is Kathy Taylor from Walsh Clucci. I reaffirmed the affidavit dated March 4th, 2025. Welcome back. Are there any disclosures from board members?

[02:45:33] Any disclosures from board members. Seeing and hearing none, I will now recognize county staff for a staff presentation. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I'm Daniel Creed with the Department of Planning and Development. The applicant, Burgundy Farm Country Day School Incorporated, seeks approval of a rezoning from the R3 district to the R1 district and a special exception to permit a riding stable, a residence hall, and a child care center.

[02:45:55] The 5.65 subject property, currently zoned R1, is located in the Franconia Magisterial District. The site is north of Tawanda Road and west of Norton Road. The site is developed with an existing single-family dwelling on the east and on the western portion.

[02:46:11] There are several buildings associated with the existing stable use, including three stables, a riding arena, riding ring, and several paddock areas. The applicant is the operator of a nearby private school, the Burgundy Farms Country Day School, outlined in red.

[02:46:26] The school property is not contiguous with the subject property and operates under separate special exception and special permit approval. The applicant requests rezoning from the R1 to the R3 district. A stable use is not permitted in the R3, which necessitates the requested R1 zoning.

[02:46:44] The applicant proposes to convert the existing dwelling into a residence hall for up to eight residents. The child care center will be for up to 20 children with three employees. And the stable use includes three existing stables for the boarding of up to eight horses.

[02:47:01] The applicant seeks to continue an informally established riding club, which currently consists of up to 40 members, the maximum of up to eight horses, as well as to incorporate the stable into school programming and modify the zoning ordinance setback requirements for the stable structures to remain.

[02:47:19] The site is accessed from stable drive and with a separate access driveway to the child care center. The applicant proposes to increase the width of the drive entrance to permit two-way traffic. The applicant also proposes a 15-foot-wide vegetative buffer along the western boundary to screen the stable uses and structures from the nearby neighboring single-family dwellings.

[02:47:41] That concludes my presentation. Thank you. Thank you very much. At this time, we'd welcome the applicant's presentation. Hello again. Kathy Taylor from the law firm of Walsh Colucci. It is a pleasure to bring this application before you all.

[02:47:56] I do have a few brief remarks about what we believe is a beloved community-serving use that actually has a very rich history. In fact, based on the applicant's research of the larger Burgundy Tract, you can see that outlined in red. The subject property is the gray portion in the bottom.

[02:48:13] The use of this property, we believe, has been for farming purposes. That dates back, we believe, to the Revolutionary War. So we don't often get too many cases that have such a rich historical background on a parcel with these typical land use developments.

[02:48:30] So I was a history major, so if you don't mind indulging a little bit in my going through the historical nature of this application, I just think it's sort of fun to see how this site has developed over the years. As you can see, based on these maps dating back to 1937, Already two of the barn structures that are on the site today were already erected on the site.

[02:48:52] By 1953, you can see all three parcels on the site, and you can see surrounding, there are no residential homes yet that were built. By 1960, you can see the homes are starting to get built around the property. By 1999, the existing structure that sits on the home today is erected.

[02:49:09] And then over the next 20 years, many of the existing equestrian uses, accessory uses, the paddocks, the outdoor riding areas, the portable shelters, all of those are constructed and which are maintained and actively support that equestrian use today.

[02:49:25] So as you heard from Mr. Creed, Burgundy School purchased this property in 2022. The acquisition of the property presented an opportunity to enhance its educational curriculum, support its teachers, as well as continue to serve the surrounding community. So as you heard, to properly establish the existing equestrian use, they need to rezone it from the R3 to the R1.

[02:49:49] And then all three uses, the existing stable, the new residence hall that they will build to offer housing for teachers and those affiliated with the school at below market rate, as well as establishing a new child care center. All of those require special exception approval.

[02:50:07] So I won't go through this entire slide. It just kind of goes through the operations of that existing use today. As mentioned, it was previously known as Little Burgundy Farm that was established back in 2006. The two things I'll note is the applicant has worked with representatives from the Northern Virginia Soil and Water Conservation District.

[02:50:26] even though this use has been on site for a very long time obviously there are some upgrades that are needed to be made they're going through or they have put together a soil and water quality conservation plan addressing things like pasture nutrient animal waste management as well as integrating new bmps to address storm water runoff and drainage issues second secondly i will note as as you saw it is nestled also in a residential community to date we are not aware of any complaints from the residents actually they love being able to look out the window and see the horses when we speak with them however

[02:51:01] we have integrated just for you know future mitigation of adverse impacts we have integrated robust screening yards to continue to just mitigate any possible adverse impacts in the future so again won't go through all of the details of the residence hall or the child care center but you can see they're listed here we aren't making any improvements to the existing home but we will be adding things like a play area more parking for the use installation of bike racks and you can also see at the bottom where we're planting more trees to create a more robust landscape buffer between this parcel and the houses to

[02:51:40] the south related to all the proposed SC uses as you heard the burger the main Burgundy school is not contiguous to this site so the applicant is committed to minimizing any traffic impacts from this application from this application site to the main campus but also promoting safe routes for the students as well as teachers to get from one to the other so we will be providing a shuttle service to the students but also offering carpool and ride sharing opportunities for teachers and any staff again listed the proposed commitments however I won't go through all of those if you have any questions happy to talk through any of those similar to the application you just heard because it is

[02:52:18] in a residential community we made efforts in the beginning to make sure we reached out to the community to let them know of what we were doing we sent out a letter. We had an informational meeting, and we do continue to have ongoing communication with the residents that are surrounding. We did get a recommendation of approval from the Franconia District Land Use Committee, and as you heard, staff and the Planning Commission also recommends approval. So with that, I do welcome any questions you may have and request a favorable consideration in this case. Thank you very much. Are there any questions of staff or the applicant? Seeing and Hearing none, this is a public hearing, and I have no speakers who have signed up in advance to testify on this matter.

[02:52:57] Is there anyone here present who would like to speak on this subject? This is a public hearing. Anyone who would like to speak? Seeing and hearing no one, let me ask if we have calls. No callers. No callers. I assume the applicant waives rebuttal. Closing comments and a recommendation from county staff.

[02:53:14] On February 5, 2025, the Planning Commission recommended approval of the subject application. Staff concurs with those recommendations. Thank you. Thank you very much. Last check. Questions from board members. Seeing and hearing none, I will now close the public record and recognize Supervisor Lusk for a motion.

[02:53:33] Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman. I'll say I wish that all of my cases were like this. I had the opportunity to visit the writing stable, and I'll acknowledge that I wasn't aware of its existence prior to this application and was pleasantly surprised just to see the different uses that are there.

[02:53:51] And we'll acknowledge the work that you're doing in providing housing for a number of the employees of Burgundy Farm. It's an amazing opportunity for those folks. And then I'll say the work that was done, so acknowledging the applicant's representative here and working with the community to address kind of the issues with the buffer and other issues was well done.

[02:54:16] So I just want to acknowledge and thank you for that. And then for the staff as well, Daniel Creed, thank you for the work that you did here as well. And I'll go ahead and make the motions based on that. So with that, Mr. Chairman, I would request that the applicant confirm for the record agreement to the development conditions dated March 14th, 2025.

[02:54:37] I'm on that for the applicant. We do agree to those conditions dated March 14th, 2025. Thank you very much. I'll make three quick motions, Mr. Chairman. first is i move that the board of supervisors approve rz-2024-fr-00007 subject to the executed proffers dated january 22nd 25. i further move that the board of supervisors approve sc-2024-fr-00017 subject to the development conditions dated march 14th 2025 and lastly mr chairman i move

[02:55:16] that the Board of Supervisors approve the waivers and modifications listed in the handout dated March 14th, 2025. And the chair will second that motion, discussion on the motion. Let me just thank the applicant. This really has a lot of rich history, as you mentioned.

[02:55:34] I'm great. It's wonderful to see this opportunity. And having visited the school, a lot of times it's a real treasure in that end of the county. And so thank you, Jeff, the head of school is here, a longtime acquaintance for running such an amazing institution and for putting together a great application.

[02:55:52] I'm proud to support it. If there's no further discussion, all those in favor, please say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Any abstentions? That motion carries. Thank you all very much. Our next case is not really a case, but it is a public hearing to expand parking restrictions on Boone Boulevard in the Providence District, and as soon as staff is ready, we would recognize our county staff for a staff presentation.

[02:56:33] Good afternoon, Chairman McKay, members of the board. Henry Stein-McCartney with Department of Transportation. This is a public hearing to consider parking restrictions in the Providence District on Boone Boulevard from Howard Avenue to the southeastern property line of 8229 Boone Boulevard as shown on Attachment 2.

[02:57:01] Property owners along this block of Boone Boulevard are seeking relief from long-term parking and vehicle storage that diminishes the capacity of on-street parking for other uses. The requested restriction will prohibit the parking of commercial vehicles, recreational vehicles, and all trailers 24 hours per day, 7 days per week.

[02:57:21] A previous parking restriction for the north side of Boone Boulevard from Howard Avenue to the southeastern property line of 8230 Boone Boulevard was approved by the Board on July 25, 2023.

[02:57:36] The proposed parking restriction considered today will expand the existing restriction to include the south side of Boone Boulevard. Staff has observed the subject blocks of Boone Boulevard over a 30-day period and documented long-term parking of commercial vehicles along them.

[02:57:54] based on our findings we recommend approval of the parking restriction as proposed thank you very much are there any questions of staff and seeing and hearing none this is a public hearing nobody has signed up in advance to testify is there anyone here present who would like to speak on this subject if you could please come down and if you could state your name and address for the record and when you're done testifying if you could please sign in with the clerk over here to the right welcome Sure. Ms. Kamden Thaz, 9395, Wolf Trap Creek Court, Great Falls, Virginia.

[02:58:28] Good afternoon, members of the board. My name is Ms. Kamden Thaz. I'm an associate at Juanian Associates in Tysons, Virginia. What do a traveling sauna, a boat, and an anti-communism propaganda board have in common? You can find them all parked outside on Boone Boulevard. Tysons is already one of the largest economic drivers for Fairfax County, as you know, and allowing these oversized commercial and personal vehicles to occupy public spaces in this way is directly at odds with the county's long-term vision for Tyson's.

[02:58:56] This is supposed to be a professional, welcoming, and safe area for businesses, employees, and residents, not an unregulated truck stop. My family law office has been at this location for seven years. My parents came to the U.S. as refugees, and they built this law firm from the ground up. Like so many other small business owners in the area, they have dedicated decades to serving the community, and it's unacceptable that large commercial trucking businesses refuse to pay for proper commercial parking or storage, instead using public roads to the detriment of the small businesses operating there. Whether you're visiting your attorney, your doctor, your ophthalmologist, you should not have to navigate a maze of 18-wheelers,

[02:59:33] saunas, boats, and politically charged billboards. It degrades the professionalism of the area and makes it look cheap and neglected. There's also, more importantly, a safety issue. I'm a super safe driver. I've never gone to an accident in touch wood, and I've almost crashed twice coming out because the 18-wheeler is basically when you're coming out left to right.

[02:59:50] If there's like one single car, you can see in between the cars. But if there are 18-wheelers back to back, you literally cannot see until you're in the street. And so I've called, I think, twice the non-emergency line after like almost crashes, not semi-crashes. So I think that's the more important thing.

[03:00:07] In conclusion, these oversized commercial vehicles are a nuisance. They create a safety hazard and avoid paying for proper commercial parking that they should be using and undermine the very vision that this county has laid out for Tyson's as a premier business and residential hub. Thank you.

[03:00:23] Excellent. Thank you very much for your testimony. Is there anyone else here who wishes to speak on this matter? This is a public hearing. Anyone else who wishes to speak on this subject? Seeing and hearing no one. Let me ask the clerk if we have callers. No callers. No callers. We've got a staff recommendation already to proceed.

[03:00:43] Any questions from board members? Seeing and hearing none, I will now close the public hearing and recognize Supervisor Paucik for a motion. Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and thank you so much to our testimony. We know it's been quite an ordeal, so very much appreciate the work by Henry and the team.

[03:01:02] I was actually over there for a little toddler's yoga ballet class the other day and got to see just how difficult the situation is right now for those local businesses. So, to that, I do have a motion, I don't have the official motion, can I just recommend approval?

[03:01:29] Yeah, is that all right? Okay. Yeah, I think you would recommend approval. This is just recommendation, right? Just confirming. Yeah, I move. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah, okay. I'm just making sure I don't have, I'm not missing a more detailed motion. So, I move approval of the county executive's recommendation.

[03:01:45] I've heard the motion, it's been multiply seconded. Any discussion on the motion? Seeing and hearing none. All those in favor of the motion, please say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Any abstentions? That motion carries. Thank you very much. Next, we have a public hearing on, let's see, public hearing on the draft one-year action plan for FY 2026. And as staff is coming down, as soon as they are ready, we would welcome a staff presentation.

[03:02:17] Good afternoon, Chairman McKay, members of the board.

[03:02:43] Laura Lasso, Associate Director, Grants Management, Department of Housing and Community Development. This is a public hearing on the draft one-year action plan for fiscal year 2026. The draft plan complies with HUD regulations and describes how the county will use CDBG, home, and ESG funds to address affordable housing and community development needs and priorities.

[03:03:08] The plan incorporates previous public input, is consistent with the Community-Wide Housing Strategic Plan, County-Wide Strategic Plan, RHA Strategic Plan, and also supports the County's One Fairfax policy. CCFAC authorized the release of the draft plan at their January 14, 2025 meeting, and the public comment period will end at the conclusion of this afternoon's Board public hearing.

[03:03:33] Funding estimates used in the draft plan are based on the County's Fiscal Year 25 HUD grant awards and will be adjusted according to the approved contingency plan after HUD notification of the actual grant awards for fiscal year 2026. The draft plan includes a total of $8.3 million in grant funding as well as $2.3 million in estimated program income. CCFAC will consider all comments received during the public comment period and at today's board public hearing prior to forwarding the final Fiscal Year 26 Action Plan for approval by the Board of Supervisors

[03:04:11] on May 13, 2025, assuming the county has received its actual HUD CDBG Home and ESG grant allocations. If not, we'll seek board approval of the final plan at a later date. Thank you. Thank you very much for that presentation.

[03:04:31] Are there any questions of staff? Any questions of staff? Seeing and hearing none, I do have two speakers signed up. This is a public hearing, and I see RuPaul Saran is on her way down. She will be followed by a caller, Tiara Fagans, and if anyone else is here wishing to testify on this matter, if you could come on down and sign in with the clerk to my far right, to your left.

[03:04:56] Welcome, RuPaul. Good afternoon, Chairman and Board Supervisors. My name is RuPaul Saran, and I represent the English Empowerment Center, formerly the Literacy Council of Northern Virginia, addressing human service needs of a very vulnerable population in Fairfax County, adults who understand little to no English.

[03:05:14] I'm here to testify on why the board should support the FY26 one-year action plan, which includes 11 projects to address communities' housing and human service needs. Every five years, the county identifies community needs and gaps for affordable housing, human services, homelessness, community development, neighborhood preservation and revitalization, facilities and infrastructure public service and economic development in this year's proposal goal five states human service system has a goal description of maintain and strengthen a safe healthy and vibrant community through a human services system that is responsive to all populations and their diverse needs

[03:05:50] including children the elderly adults with disabilities and those or those with other special needs with emphasis on benefiting low and moderate income persons and households the counties to identify gaps and strategies to meet and current and emerging service needs, to encourage and support a coordinated public and private network of community services that foster stability and maximizes independence for individuals and families, and to encourage best practices, sensitivity to cultural differences, and enhance performances in service delivery to ensure residents receive high-quality services as needed.

[03:06:25] In Fairfax County, there is a strong correlation between English proficiency and poverty. 8.4% of our children live in poverty, and over 51% of elementary school students return to a home where English is not the main language spoken.

[03:06:41] And 59% of those living below the poverty level speak a language other than English at home.

[03:06:47] For English language learner, breaking cycles of inequity is especially difficult, as language and cultural differences create barriers for parental involvement in school population.

[03:07:51] These include individuals who are language learners, individuals who have low levels of literacy, and individuals facing substantial cultural barriers. The planned states, adult education, and literacy organizations, such as the Literacy Council of Northern Virginia, now English Empowerment Center, are key to the development of career pathways and bridge models that will be developed in order to create programs that will help those with latest barriers obtain meaningful employment, including methods to fast-track highly skilled inference into jobs with intensive English language instruction.

[03:08:21] One of our learners states, opportunity means a situation that makes it possible to do something that you want. The United States is a land of opportunity. In the United States, you can achieve anything that you have in your mind. You have so many opportunities to achieve it.

[03:08:37] Here, opportunity for education, opportunity for jobs, opportunity for business and sports. In the U.S., people have equal rights. One thing which I really appreciate is that people with disabilities have the same rights and opportunities as everyone else, like education, transportation, health care, and social services.

[03:08:55] Last year, I came here from Pakistan. Recently, I got my driver's license. I get a chance to learn and speak English. It will help me to get a job and to improve my self-confidence. I believe that this is an opportunity for me to do something for my family. I want to achieve, because you will never know when you will get another chance again.

[03:09:13] I remind this board of One Fairfax and its commitment to promote fairness and justice in the formation of public policy that results in all residents having opportunity to fully participate in the region's economic vitality, contribute to its readiness for the future, and connect to its assets and resources. I thank this committee for its time and ask that you please remember that learning English changes lives. Thank you very much, Rupal. Thank you.

[03:09:39] Thank you for all your work in the community. We appreciate it. And we are, if we are ready, We will accept testimony from Speaker No. 2.

[03:09:59] Is there anyone else here present who wishes to speak on this subject, on this subject? Okay. Do we have Speaker No. 2 on the line? We've not been able to connect. We've not been able to connect. Okay. If that is the case and there are no further speakers here, this is a public hearing.

[03:10:18] If there's no one else wishing to testify, do we have anyone else on the line? We do not have anyone else on the line at this time. Any closing comments and a recommendation from county staff? Staff recommends the Board of Supervisors direct staff to forward comments received on the draft fiscal year 26 one-year action plan to CCFAC for its consideration before the CCFAC makes its final recommendations to the Board for action at a later date.

[03:10:50] Thank you very much. Are there any questions of Board members? Any questions of Board members? Okay, I will now close the public hearing and recognize Supervisor Palchuk. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Thank you so much to our entire staff.

[03:11:08] Thank you to Rupal for your testimony. I am very happy to move the county executive's recommendation. Second. You've heard the motion, the second by Supervisor Bierman. And just to read it to be clear for the record, the county executive recommends following the public hearing, As was just mentioned, the board forward comments received on the draft FY2026 one-year action plan to the CCFAC for its consideration before the CCFAC makes its recommendation to the board for action on May 13, 2025.

[03:11:43] With that, all those in favor of the motion, please say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Any abstentions? That motion carries. Thank you very much. Next, we have a public hearing on proposed plan amendment, SSPA 2023-2-4, Briarwood Farm, located on Swanee Lane at its intersection with Nutley Street in the Providence District.

[03:12:09] And when they are ready, we would welcome a staff presentation. Good afternoon. My name is Mike Linsky from the Department of Planning and Development.

[03:12:33] I'm accompanied by Graham Owen, also from DPD. the briarwood farm plan amendment was authorized through the 2022 and 23 ssba process and it represents a combined request from the owners of seven residential parcels in the providence district to be replanned to a slightly higher density consistent with the neighboring development the properties are located along swanny lane at its intersection with nutley street just south of i-66 and east of the vienna tsa the subject properties are planned and developed for residential use at one to two dwelling units an acre which is the base plan for the area but much of the

[03:13:13] surrounding area was re-planned and re- and developed in the 2000s as the briarwood trace development under plan options for four to five dwelling units an acre and two to three dwelling units an acre subject to a number of planned conditions the subject properties were not included in those plan options and remain under the base plan the proposed amendment would include the subject parcels in the already adopted option for development at four to five dwelling units an acre subject to the same conditions. The subject area currently consists of seven single-family homes dating to the 1950s on almost two-acre lots. There's currently a significant difference in neighborhood character as you progress from the subject area to the neighboring Briarwood

[03:13:52] Trace Development, which consists of newer single-family homes located closer to the street and on smaller parcels. The streetscape character also changes from a more rural roadway section to a suburban curb street with sidewalks on both sides. There's no specific development proposal at this time. However, both the nominator and staff developed feasibility concepts to determine if the proposed density seemed reasonable for the site. The staff concept shown here demonstrates that simply extending the neighboring PDH5 development pattern west along Sewanee, that would provide the requested density while maintaining a consistent neighborhood character.

[03:14:30] And such a development pattern would still provide the opportunity to preserve a significant amount of open space and tree buffers on the site, which mitigates any concerns about compatibility with the remaining lower density development to the south. Due to the limited scope of the proposed plan change, there would be minimal impact on the transportation network or school capacities. That concludes the presentation. Thanks. Thank you very much for that presentation. Any questions of staff on the presentation we've just heard?

[03:14:59] Seeing and hearing none, I'm going to move on. I want to recognize this gentleman. Are you the nominator? Yes. Okay. If you would like to address the board, you're welcome to. My name is James Clark, I am the nominator. I'll be very brief. This nomination, which was put forward in October, first week of October 2022, two and a half years ago, consisted of seven nominators. It was a 100% consolidation, something that seldom happens in this county. It should, this thing should have been totally non-controversial. In fact, since March of 2022, there's been total agreement

[03:15:38] with the neighboring groups it's unfortunate it's just taken this long i'd be happy to entertain any questions that anyone has otherwise i would ask the the board to move the amendment and adopt the plan thank you very much are there any questions of the nominator not seeing anything thank you very much sir this is a public hearing i have no speakers who have signed up in advance to testify on this matter is there anyone here present who would like to speak on this specific subject anyone here who would like to speak this is a public hearing seeing and hearing no one let

[03:16:17] me verify we have no callers there are no callers there are no callers uh closing comments and a recommendation from county staff thank you uh the nominator and staff met with representatives of the neighboring hoas multiple times to discuss the proposal and they are supportive of the amendment the planning commission also reviewed the amendment on february 5th and recommended adoption of the staff recommendations contained on pages 14 through 15 of the staff report that would integrate the subject parcels into the adopted plan option for residential use at four to five dwelling units an acre. Thank you. Thank you very much. Last check,

[03:16:53] questions from board members. Seeing and hearing none, I will now close the public record and recognize Supervisor Palchuk for a motion. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Thank you so much to Michael and Graham and all the staff who've worked on this. Thank you to the applicant and to the communities especially I know Briarwood farm and their president have been very active and have sent several letters of recommendation of approval as was mentioned there is no associated rezoning application so we are just looking at this time at the comprehensive plan amendment SSP a

[03:17:28] nomination so to that I will read my motion I move that the Board of supervisors adopt the Planning Commission recommendation for plan amendment SSPA 2023-2-1V as found on pages 14 to 15 of the staff report dated January 15th, 2025.

[03:17:50] Heard the motion. The chair will second that motion. Is there discussion on the motion? Seeing and hearing none, all those in favor of the motion, please say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Any abstentions? That motion carries. Thank you very much. We now have an intent to defer that was announced earlier, which is on public hearing on proposed plan amendment SSPA 2023-4-2S Franconia Triangle S9 Beulah Community Planning Sector Recommendation No. 3, study in the Franconia District, Supervisor Lusk.

[03:18:26] Thank you, Mr. Chairman. The Planning Commission public hearing for this plan amendment has been deferred to April 9th, 2025, due to a weather-related cancellation of the originally scheduled February 12th, 2025 public hearing, and from March 12th, 2025, due to agenda considerations.

[03:18:45] Given this, we need to defer the Board's public hearing to provide sufficient time for the Planning Commission to make its decision. Therefore, Mr. Chairman, I move the Board of Supervisors defer the public hearing to for Plan Amendment SSPA-2023-4-2S to a date certain of May 13, 2025 at 4.30 p.m.

[03:19:08] I've heard the motion. I'm happy to second that. Discussion on the motion? Seeing and hearing none. All those in favor, please say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Any abstentions? That motion carries. I am going to—we have two quick items that I am going to take up first before the next case, Since the next case has over 25 speakers on it, so I am going to move two cases real quickly before that so that we can allow time for the case that's going to take up a considerable amount of time this evening.

[03:19:41] So I'm going to skip to the next public hearing, which is public hearing on proposed revisions to the Board of Supervisors Countywide and Tyson's Urban Center Workforce Dwelling Unit, WDU, Administrative Policy Guidelines. And I am at this time going to recognize county staff for a staff presentation.

[03:20:02] This will be followed by proposed amendments to Fairfax County Code, Chapter 12, Tenant-Landlord Relations. And then we will go to the case with 25-plus speakers. So stand by here for a second, and we'll do this as efficiently as we can. At this time, I'd welcome a staff presentation.

[03:20:21] Good afternoon, Mr. Chairman and members of the board. My name is Megan Van Dam. I work for the Department of Housing and Community Development. I'm joined by Anna Shapiro and Tom Fleetwood, also with the Housing Department, as well as a number of staff from the Department of Planning and Development, Graham Owen, Tracy Strunk, Kelly Atkinson, Leah Nebauer, who are presenting the item here on the proposed revisions to the Workforce Dwelling and Administrative Policy Guidelines.

[03:20:50] The current guidelines were adopted on February 23, 2021, with revisions to the rental program. The guidelines are a tool to administer and regulate workforce dwelling units that are proffered in conjunction with the rezoning application.

[03:21:08] They provide implementation and administrative guidance for the policy plan housing element Appendix 1 guidelines for the provision of workforce dwelling units. The guidelines recognize the FCRHA as an administrative body, including for the purchase of the WDUs.

[03:21:28] The guidelines address integration and dispersion of WDUs in developments, technical requirements for size, term of price control, occupancy, and designation of approved plans, the sale and resale requirements, rental requirements, the RHA right to purchase and rent units, and also speak to the required legal documentation.

[03:21:48] In 2023, a stakeholder task force was formed to evaluate the function of the for sale WDU policies and programs and possible improvements, primarily to consider revisions to income tiers served. The task force recommended revisions that affected the WDU policy, which were adopted on September 10, 2024, as Comprehensive Plan Amendment 2023 CW1CP.

[03:22:11] As well, the task force looked at changes to the program that were contained in the WDU administrative policy guidelines. A draft of the revisions to the guidelines was published for public review and comment last fall, leading to the set of revisions we are presenting today.

[03:22:30] We shared the draft revisions with interest groups attending their meetings and communicating directly with interested parties to gather feedback. Staff also held virtual information sessions. The proposed changes to the administrative guidelines reflect the task force recommended changes as well as changes based on current and best practices and interpretations of the guidance, stakeholder engagement, and organizational clarity.

[03:22:52] These include new language about bedroom proportionality between WDUs and marker eight units, minimum room sizes, finishes, and features, adjusted language about sales formulas, buyer's ability to finance and refinance units, and other procedural changes to encourage earlier submission of documents for review, and as well, clarified language about the WDUs transferred within a development with multiple unit types.

[03:23:14] Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Thank you very much for that presentation. Are there any questions of staff? Seeing and hearing none, this is a public hearing. I have no speakers who have signed up in advance. Is there anyone here present who wishes to testify on this matter? Anyone present who would like to speak on this subject?

[03:23:30] Seeing and hearing none, let me ask if we have any callers. There are no callers. No callers. Any further closing comments or recommendation from staff? Yes. The proposed changes to the administrative guidelines have been developed through task force and stakeholder review and comment. They better address the need in the county and enhance the WD program.

[03:23:49] By integrating the updated WD policy changes, streamlining the guidelines for clarity, and addressing stakeholder feedback, these revisions aim to keep the program flexible, equitable, and responsive to program needs. Key improvements such as the adjustment of technical expectations, pricing formulas, and administrative processes will modernize the program and reaffirm the county's commitment to increasing the housing supply for diverse income levels through sound planning and inclusive practices.

[03:24:14] As such, staff recommends that the board adopt the revised Workforce Willing Unit administrative policy guidelines as recommended in the staff report dated february 18th 2025 and revised march 6 2025 which is attachment a of the board item thank you mr chairman thank you very much any further questions from the board seeing and hearing none before i turn to supervisor smith for a motion you did outline the process i just want to thank staff this has been a thorough process heavily vetted the speed which we're handling this is not indicative of how much time and effort went into this including appreciation for the briefing at our board committee meeting and with that i'm going to turn to supervisor smith for a motion

[03:24:51] thank you mr chairman the proposed revisions to the county's workforce dwelling unit or wdu administrative policy guidelines consist of important changes that will lead to better implementation of the wdu program as staff described in preparing the staff recommendation staff engaged industry stakeholders who work directly with these guidelines when offering wdus and collaborated on several important improvements to the guidelines that will set clearer expectations for those involved and will lead to more efficient and predictable review and offering processes.

[03:25:22] Therefore Mr. Chairman, I move that the Board of Supervisors adopt the revised Workforce Dwelling Unit Administrative Policy Guidelines as recommended in the Staff Report dated February 18, 2025 and revised March 6, 2025, which is attached to today's Board item.

[03:25:39] The guidelines will be effective upon Board of Supervisors' action and will apply to rezoning applications submitted and comprehensive plan amendments authorized for review following this action. And, Chair, we'll second that along with Supervisor Palchuk. I heard Supervisor Lusk.

[03:25:54] Any discussion on the motion? Supervisor Palchuk. Very briefly, in addition to the work that was put into this, I know that we've gone through some difficult cases and have learned quite a bit from it. So I very much just appreciate the work the continued improvement of our policy as we know so much for sale housing is necessary thank you thank you very much all those in favor of the motion please say aye aye any opposed any abstentions that motion carries thank you very much next we have a public hearing on proposed amendments to Fairfax County

[03:26:30] code chapter 12 tenant landlord relations and while staff is making their way down I'll just reiterate if you are here for the public hearing on the AT&T plan amendment. We are going to hear that case immediately following this one. You have not missed it, so we will move to that case immediately following this one. Once staff is ready, we would appreciate a staff presentation. Again, we are on the public hearing on proposed amendments to the

[03:27:02] Fairfax County Code Chapter 12, Tenant-Landlord Relations. Good afternoon. My name is Amanda Castle. I'm the Division Director of Consumer Services in the Department of Cable and Consumer Services. I'm joined by Director Rebecca Makeley, Consumer Affairs Branch Manager Susan Jones, and John Dorsey from the County Attorney's Office. On February 24th of 2024, Chairman McKay and Supervisor Smith initiated a review of over 80 Fairfax County boards, authorities, and commissions.

[03:27:43] The review aimed to assess whether each BAC's original purpose remains relevant, if they are fulfilling their purpose, and to identify any potential redundancies. On February 18th of 2025, the Board authorized advertisement of a public hearing on proposed amendments to Fairfax County Code Chapter 12, Tenant-Landlord Relations.

[03:28:05] These amendments include the dissolution of one of the county's BACs, the Fairfax County Tenant-Landlord Commission, along with other minor updates to the chapter. The Tenant Landlord Commission is recommended for dissolution, and its duties going forward will be fulfilled by the Consumer Affairs Branch in the Consumer Services Division of the Department of Cable and Consumer Services.

[03:28:30] On a daily basis, Consumer Affairs engages with residents on tenant-landlord matters. We listen to our residents share the challenges that they face in tenant-landlord disputes and target our communication strategies to meet their needs. We continue to find ways to enhance our mediation and proactive outreach services.

[03:28:50] The Consumer Affairs webpage on the county's website is packed with resources for tenants and landlords in multiple languages and proactively provides critical information on tenants and landlords' rights and responsibilities under state law, eviction prevention, fair housing, and more.

[03:29:08] Channel 16, Facebook, and YouTube also serve to support our engagement. In fact, on March 3rd, earlier this month, we live-streamed a consumer connection program titled Renters, Rights, and Responsibilities, What Every Tenant Should Know, with a special guest from Legal Services of Northern Virginia.

[03:29:26] We also provide targeted outreach on tenant-landlord matters and unbiasedly mediate tenant-landlord disputes. Two of our recent mediation efforts at Fairmont Gardens and Eves Fairfax Towers resulted in nearly $250,000 being provided directly to our tenants.

[03:29:45] We proudly provide these services in partnership with other Fairfax County agencies like the Office of Human Rights and Equity Programs, Fairfax County Police Department, Fairfax County Code Compliance, the Department of Housing and Community Development, and OneFairfax.

[03:30:02] Based on the discretionary status of the Commission and the Department's ability to continue to provide services to tenants and landlords, We do not anticipate that the public will be adversely affected by this action. The department recommends that the board adopt the proposed amendments to County Code Chapter 12 and dissolve the commission.

[03:30:20] Thank you. Thank you very much. Are there any questions of staff? Seeing and hearing none, this is a public hearing. I do not have anyone who has signed up in advance to testify on this matter. Is there anyone here who wants to speak on this issue? This is a public hearing. Anyone who wants to speak on this issue?

[03:30:37] Seeing and hearing no one, let me ask if we have any callers. We do have one caller, Ken Reed, speaking as an individual. Okay. Ken, can you hear me okay? I can, sir. Thank you. Welcome. The floor is yours. Thank you, sir. I'm a member of the List Commission.

[03:30:53] I've enjoyed my time on it. And it's a shame that we didn't have more members so we could have quorum and do other things. My only request is that you find a suitable place for me and my other commissioners so we can still be involved in the county.

[03:31:12] I have applied to your office, and you do have some appointments, even though I was told afterward by your aide that you do not, but you do have some. And I also applied to Mr. Herity's office because he put me on. He was the one who helped get me on to begin with.

[03:31:30] I think that this is a, we have, I'm personally interested in affordable housing, but as you know, Mr. Chairman, I've worked on a county board before as a supervisor, and I have a lot of board and commission experience, and our chairman is very good, Robert Chamberlain.

[03:31:45] And I don't know if he's interested in serving in another capacity, but I hope that you will take that in mind, and I have applied, like I said, through your office and through Mr. Herod, because I know you well from my past. And I'm sorry that it's come to this, but I think that had we had more people who were nominated to serve, that we could have been, we probably would have been more effective.

[03:32:12] Thank you very much, Ken. Appreciate your testimony and your service. Are there any other callers? No more callers. No more callers? Okay. Any closing comments or recommendation? We've already heard from staff the recommendation.

[03:32:28] Any further closing comments? no further closing comments thank you very much before I turn to Supervisor Smith for a motion I do want to acknowledge on the record I've received today a letter from the NAACP and appreciate their letter which is largely consistent with the staff presentation that we heard a moment ago about how these matters are going to continue to be carried forward by other entities and perhaps even more aggressively and so I do want to make sure that is on the record and thank the NAACP for weighing in. And with that being said, I am

[03:33:04] going to close the public hearing and recognize Supervisor Smith for a motion. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I move approval of the county executive recommendation, which supports amendments to Fairfax County Code Chapter 12, tenant land or relations, effective upon adoption. Heard the motion. It's been multiply seconded. Any further discussion? I just want to thank staff for their work on this. We had them here earlier today on a similar matter and appreciate their work.

[03:33:32] With that being said, all those in favor of the motion, please say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Any abstentions? And that motion carries. And that brings us to our next public hearing. We have two matters left to handle tonight. And so if you are here for public comment at the very end, open public comment, if you are one of those speakers, that will be the last public hearing of the day. And you have a little bit of time before we get to that. Our next public hearing

[03:34:02] is a public hearing on proposed plan amendment SSPA 2023-2-1F AT&T Oakton in the Providence District. And right now, I do have a speaker's list that has 24 individuals on it. If you are here for this matter and you have not signed in to be a speaker, please come down to the clerk on my far right, on your left, and make sure that you sign in so that you can get an opportunity to speak.

[03:34:34] And with that being said, at this time, I am going to recognize county staff for a presentation. Thank you, Mr. Chairman and members of the board. My name is Ryan Stewart with the county's Department of Planning and Development, representing the staff this evening. With me tonight are my colleagues Tracy Strunk, Kelly Atkinson, and Grandma Owen, also with the Department of Planning and Development.

[03:34:53] and with the county's Department of Transportation, Mr. Michael Garcia, and Robert Pecora. For hearing this evening is site-specific plan amendment 2023-2-1F AT&T Oakton. The plan amendment before you came to us through the 2022 site-specific plan amendment cycle and was added to the work program as a Tier 1 item.

[03:35:13] The subject site is the AT&T Oakton campus within the Flint Hill Suburban Center at the intersection of Chain Bridge and Germantown Roads and is located in the Providence Magisterial District. The board authorization directed staff to consider residential mixed use up to a 1.0 Florida area ratio with a mix of residential types and community-serving retail uses.

[03:35:32] Additionally, the board authorization included considerations for creating a core area for the suburban center, compatibility with adjacent residential areas, tree preservation, and multimodal access and circulation at the site and nearby. The 33-acre site is developed with a 444,000-square-foot office building constructed in 1981 and approximately 1,150 surface parking spaces.

[03:35:55] In addition to Chain Bridge and Germantown Roads, the site is bordered by White Granite Drive and Flagpole Lane to the south and east. Open space comprises about 35% of the total site area today. Here you can see some pictures of the site, the AT&T building, and the open space character.

[03:36:11] The most prominent feature of the site is seen from the surrounding road network of the large pine and willow oak trees along Chainbridge and Germantown roads and the associated deep setback from Chainbridge Road, which lends a campus feel to the site. Over the years, it's been used by the community as a place to recreate and to enjoy the open character.

[03:36:27] The Flint Hill Suburban Center contains a mixed-use plan with options for commercial use, generally at a .4 FAR, and residential options at 8 to 12, 12 to 16, and 16 to 20 dwellings per acre. The subject site is planned at .4 FAR, built out at about a .31 with language specific to the existing development.

[03:36:47] And then outside of the suburban center are primarily residential uses up to 16 to 20 dwellings per acre closest to the site with the intensity tapering away with distance. Recent rezoning activity in Land Unit A west of Cambridge Road has conformed to the adopted plan's residential option, replacing office with townhomes and triplex developments.

[03:37:10] Last month, the Board approved two rezonings for 18.7 dwelling units per acre and 16.1 dwelling units per acre, or 0.88 FAR and 1.0 FAR, respectively, which is equivalent to the proposed overall intensity on the subject site as authorized for consideration.

[03:37:29] In consideration of creating a core for the Flint Hill area, staff consider it a number of factors detailed in the staff report. Recommendations are informed by a comprehensive transportation analysis, the nominator's concept plans, third-party studies, and a two-year-long outreach effort with community groups, associations, and individuals.

[03:37:46] The key considerations are listed here on this slide and include compatibility with the surrounding residential neighborhoods and with the character of Oakton as a whole, a development pattern that enables retaining the desirable tree canopy and creating usable open space, small-scale local retail gathering places and community-serving uses, transportation improvements as identified in the transportation analysis with the ultimate goal of improving safety and function of the network, The community's desire for larger, flexible open park spaces and environmental and heritage resource impacts on the AT&T site.

[03:38:22] And with that, Mr. Chairman, I'll conclude the presentation, and staff is happy to answer any questions that you might have. Thank you very much for that presentation. Are there any questions of staff? Seeing and hearing none, I will now recognize the nominator to provide comments.

[03:38:38] Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mark Looney with Cooley on behalf of the nominator, CB Oakton Associates. I've got a presentation, and normally at the board meeting I would sort of, I'll say, stay away from getting into a lot of detail. But I think there's enough meat on the bone here that I think it's worth flipping through a few slides for you all to give you a little bit of the flavor of what we're talking about.

[03:39:00] As staff mentioned, the AT&T campus is over 40 years old. AT&T began to shift employees away from the facility in the pre-COVID era in the middle 2000s. and by the post-COVID era, its occupancy was down to about 10% of the building.

[03:39:18] And they announced that when the lease ends early next year, that they will be relocating to another site within Fairfax County. The opportunity, then, is to take a 33-acre piece of property that is ideally situated at major transportation intersections and reimagine it to be a core area for Oakton.

[03:39:37] We filed this nomination two and a half years ago. It's taken that long to get to this point, And I'll talk a little bit about what that process looked like in a moment. But one of the things that I think is important to understand is you don't get opportunities like this very often in Fairfax County anymore. So much of your land has already been developed.

[03:39:54] So much of it is spoken for. And so this really creates an opportunity for trying to create something special at this location. I'm going to give you a little bit of a preview of the rezoning application that's been submitted on the property that would follow behind the comprehensive plan amendment should it be approved.

[03:40:12] A couple of things to point out. On the left-hand side of the screen here, the intent is to preserve a significant portion of the existing tree canopy that exists along Chainbridge Road and utilize that as a gateway into the site. On the lower right-hand side of the screen, you'll see nearly an identical replication of the open green space that exists today that the community has sort of adopted as its own.

[03:40:38] And the intent is to be able to retain that open space area, connect it with Board Street Park to the upper right-hand side of the screen. And then finally, there's some environmental features in the middle of the site on the lower side where flagpole and white granite intersect that we also would intend to preserve.

[03:40:56] The intent is to create kind of a Main Street feel with the retail, double-sided along both sides of the main east-west spine the road that goes through the property with multifamily over top of one of the retail buildings in the site. And then to utilize the existing tree canopy along Chain Bridge Road to create an environment that's welcoming from day one as opposed to having to grow into the facility and into the tree covers a lot of new developments have to.

[03:41:25] I wanna talk a little bit about the process of how we got here. The nominator in this case held over 50 individual meetings with representatives of homeowners associations, some of the Oakton wide homeowner groups, individuals for coffee, for lunch.

[03:41:41] We held a number of online meetings as well as in-person meetings. That's in addition to about a half a dozen community meetings that the supervisor's office and county staff orchestrated. So there's been a lot of input into this process. The principal feedback that we receive from the community you'll see on the screen here, but I want to focus on a couple of them.

[03:42:01] One is transportation, pedestrian and bicycle transportation and overall vehicular transportation, 'cause that's a concern anywhere in Fairfax County, but it's a particular concern in this area for reasons that I'll talk about. The other was, and I touched on this briefly, the amount of open space that's been provided, and this is a blow up of where we're headed with the rezoning in terms of connecting some of that open space.

[03:42:23] With respect to the amount of retail that's proposed, I want to talk not so much about what we are, but about what we're not. It's not an attempt to replicate Mosaic, which has roughly four times the amount of retail that's planned with this project. It's not Reston Town Center's urban core, where you've got five times the amount of retail, four times the amount of retail that's programmed with this.

[03:42:47] It's intended to be really neighborhood-serving retail. It's comparable in size to the existing Oakton shopping center that's to the north of this site along 123. But the big elephant in the room as we began talking about this is the transportation situation that exists in Oakton.

[03:43:03] Obviously, the hot lanes has come in, reconfigured the interchange with I-66 and 123, but there are still existing bottlenecks in the region. So let's talk about how we tackled that. One is to understand what the network looks like today.

[03:43:18] You'll see from the screen here that you have a number of roads that intersect and bring all of the traffic onto Chain Bridge Road 123, but they don't necessarily connect with one another. The only one that connects is Germantown Road, where you can pass over top of 123 to go east and west.

[03:43:38] Go a little bit north, you have Miller Road filling in from the northwest. You have Hunter Mill Road filling in from the north. You have Blake Lane and other streets that are coming in from the east. None of them connect. And the consequence of that is that all of the traffic has to get out onto 123 to go in a different direction.

[03:43:59] Or you can go through the one single intersection that connects at Germantown and 123. And so understanding that from a transportation standpoint, we have a disconnected grid. Part of what we focused on in the community process and working with staff is, and I'll talk a little bit about that going forward, is what are the opportunities to help correct some of these decisions that were made 40, 50, 60 years ago that we're living with today?

[03:44:26] The other thing that we understood was that the autos, as you might imagine, dominate this area. If you're a pedestrian, you are not welcome necessarily given the configuration that is out there today. Again, these are decisions not made in the last two years.

[03:44:42] or decisions made 40 or 50 years ago, the consequences of which we are living with today. Pedestrians are an afterthought. We have sidewalks that maybe they connect and maybe they don't. And so part of the opportunity is to really figure out where we can make a difference.

[03:44:59] We started with what are the existing conditions at the site today. We overlaid what would be the conditions when it develops and then projected forward to 2025 to understand sort of the short-term and the long-term contribution of this site to the overall traffic within the corridor. One of the things that we did was analyze 16 different intersections, including some of those problem intersections that I talked about at Miller Road and Hunter Mill Road to the north of the site. We paid particular attention to the Germantown Road and 123 intersection because that's the one most proximate to the site and where we have an

[03:45:38] opportunity as part of the rezoning and the redevelopment to make a difference. So let's focus in on that particular intersection. Right now, as I mentioned, they connect, but they don't actually connect, if you look at the lane configuration, to where you can run the east-west connection at the same time.

[03:45:55] The lanes don't match up going east and west. So you need what's called a split-phase signal, which is you give the eastbound traffic a certain amount of time at the traffic signal, you give the westbound traffic a certain amount of time at the intersection. And then from VDOT's perspective, the main show is running north and south on 123, trying to flush as many cars as we can through that intersection during the green cycle. So you shortchange the east-west connections to the benefit of the north-south connections.

[03:46:27] And what that ends up with, as you'll see, is a number of failing intersection movements at that intersection. The current comprehensive plan, I'll note that in the 2045 timeline, we're only contributing right around five percent of the total traffic through that intersection. So the majority, overwhelming majority of traffic is coming from somewhere else headed to somewhere else. The county's comprehensive plan currently calls for a grade-separated interchange to quote-unquote fix Cambridge Road and Germantown Road. As you can see, the configuration would substantially expand both the width of the intersection and create barriers to pedestrians

[03:47:04] getting through the intersection, which, as I noted earlier, are already challenged in this area. And so this is the conversation you would be having with the neighbors at that corner, right? And so we looked at what are the alternatives to that grade-separated interchange.

[03:47:20] The historic response is to grow the intersection by one or two lanes in each direction, perhaps to line things up. But you do so to the detriment of the pedestrians who already are an afterthought at this intersection. And so county staff challenged us to look at different options for trying to solve this particular intersection. One option was the opportunity for a roundabout.

[03:47:43] But again, it impacts pedestrian mobility through this intersection. They also had us look at this spaghetti option that I can't even explain that essentially pushes left turns earlier in the intersection movement in order to create storage bays that are longer at that intersection.

[03:48:01] And we as the nominating team quickly discounted it, as I think staff did. And so what we focused on were there were there things that we could do. And this is one option that we've studied and we'll continue to study it. And I think the plan text that's before you doesn't commit to this as the solution.

[03:48:18] But one solution was to get rid of left turn lanes going east and westbound on Germantown road and reroute traffic around to the two new developments that staff talked about on the west side of 123 by turning what's called Rosehaven Drive into more of a connection. So if you want to go southbound on 123, you actually go past the intersection, make a left on Rosehaven, come back to 123 and head southbound. And similarly, if you want to go northbound, you'll make a right onto Rosehaven off of Germantown then make a left to go north onto 123. The consequence of that is

[03:48:56] it actually allows us to push more traffic through the east and west movements along Germantown Road. Again not the only solution that's out there but an innovative solution that we're going to be diving into a little bit more as part of the rezoning process. If this were adopted it turns a lot of those reds into greens and actually improves not just the functionality at the signal but travel times, because you're not stuck waiting at the intersection.

[03:49:24] You actually get to move and get where you're going faster as a result of this. So I offer this to you not, again, as I said, a solution, but to understand why it's taken us two and a half years to get to the board just on the plan amendment. We still have the rezoning to go, and you're going to hear some speakers tonight who are very worried about how that will ultimately come into play, both positively and negatively.

[03:49:47] You're going to hear positive things about this, and you're going to hear concerns about how this gets implemented. The takeaway I want you to have is that we've done a significant amount of outreach coordination with county staff, with the community, with the supervisor's office about setting the framework.

[03:50:06] I call the comprehensive plan the guardrails. All we're talking about today is the guardrails through which we can then push the rezoning in the weeks and months to come. So with that, I'll stop and answer any questions that you have. Thank you very much. Are there any questions of the nominator at this time?

[03:50:25] Seeing and hearing none, this is a public hearing. As I mentioned earlier, I have 26 speakers who are lined up, already signed up to testify this evening. If you are here for this case and you are not signed up, please make sure that you come down here and sign up with the clerk to my far right.

[03:50:43] I'm going to call a couple speakers at a time so that you're ready to go. please make sure you're down here close to the podium so that we can have an efficient public hearing. And our first speaker is Sonia Brighi, followed by Chris French, followed by Naveed Easton, followed by Doug Schuster.

[03:51:01] If I called your name, please make sure you're close to the podium so when it's your time to testify, you are ready. Sonia Brighi has five minutes representing the Northern Virginia Coalition for Smarter Growth. Welcome. Great. Thank you. Good evening, Chairman McKay and supervisors.

[03:51:18] My name is Sonia Brighi. I'm the Northern Virginia Advocacy Manager for the Coalition for Smarter Growth. I live here in Fairfax County in the Providence District. I would first like to thank Supervisor Palczyk, Planning Commissioner Hancock, and the county staff for their efforts throughout this process, listening to the community, and working to address their concerns while balancing important needs in our county.

[03:51:44] It's not easy. The proposed redevelopment of the AT&T site is a great opportunity for infill development, transforming acres of underutilized office space and impervious parking lots into an inclusive and sustainable community.

[03:52:01] To make way for this redevelopment, the plan amendment calls for an increase in intensity and balanced mix of uses with space for a grocery store and community-serving retail, which is a critical component to ensuring a walkable, vibrant community as the core of this Flint Hill Suburban Center.

[03:52:21] I was disappointed in the reduction in the FAR that came out of the Planning Commission and hope that no further reductions will be made and ultimately undermine, really, the benefits that this development can provide. The proposal will deliver much-needed new homes, including affordable and workplace units.

[03:52:44] In fact, the developer's proposal offers a higher ratio of affordable homes than the county actually asks for. We face a shortage of homes in the county, leading to extremely high prices, which means more and more people can't afford to live here. And this isn't just a problem for others.

[03:53:01] It affects each of us. The lack of housing options makes it hard to stay in the community if our circumstances could change. We may not want to move our families from their neighborhood or force our kids to change schools. It means our grown kids, like my own college-aged daughter, may not be able to afford to come back to the area. It means those who work in our community as our teachers, the police, and service workers can't afford to live here. And the lack of affordable options forces people to move farther away and into longer commutes that are both costly and exasperate the traffic

[03:53:39] problems we face. Creating mixed-use, mixed-income, walkable, and transit-accessible communities like this proposal has shown to reduce driving, increase walk, bike, and transit trips, and reduce air and climate pollution. The AT&T site is a prime location near transit, including the Vienna Metro, local bus service, and express buses running in the 66 hot lanes. It is also served by two major regional multi-use trails while the site benefits from proximity to these sustainable transfer transportation options the area today is not

[03:54:18] comfortable or safe for people trying to walk bike or take transit the only way this only makes traffic worse because everyone is forced to drive even for those short trips this proposal can help us change that and will serve as a catalyst for needed multimodal improvements in the area the plan calls for optimizing transit and enhancing bus stop amenities and safety to encourage greater ridership it includes improvements for pedestrian and bicycle safety and connectivity both on-site and connecting to nearby neighborhoods completing missing gaps and upgrading sidewalks providing

[03:54:56] better and more connected bike facilities improving the cross county trail and directly connecting to the 66 trail there are specific recommendations for mitigating traffic impacts and enhancing pedestrian crossings at several intersections near the site and redesigning roads to calm traffic and produce improve pedestrian safety i appreciate the inclusion of the follow-on transportation study that will help identify fixes in the broader community and continue to look at options to address the chain bridge in germantown intersection i especially

[03:55:31] support removal of the plan interchange at this intersection. The plan amendment and proposed redevelopment includes significant environmental benefits as well. The plan addresses the community's interest in saving established trees on site and the need for parks and gathering spaces. It will also provide updated and enhanced stormwater management and includes green infrastructure and stream protections. We can't continue to fight the very investments we need for a more inclusive and sustainable future.

[03:56:03] I ask that you approve the plan amendment and make way for the redevelopment of the AT&T site. Thank you. Thank you. Speaker number two is Chris French, to be followed by Naveed Easton, Douglas Schuster, Anika Raman.

[03:56:19] Welcome. Thank you, Chairman McKay and Supervisors. My name is Chris French. I'm a 25-year resident of Blake Lane. My family lives about a half mile from the AT&T site. I also serve as the president of Fairfax Families for Safe Streets, and I'm going to try and save you some time tonight by speaking, giving first testimony on behalf of Fairfax Families for Safe Streets, and then also sharing some personal comments within my speaking slot.

[03:56:45] Fairfax Families for Safe Streets supports the plan amendment that's in front of you. We do not advocate for or against individual development projects, as it's outside the scope of our advocacy mission. However, when the county does develop, when county development projects are reviewed and considered for approval, we believe it's critically important that these projects uphold smart growth principles and create communities that are safe and comfortable for pedestrians, introduce or improve sustainable active transportation infrastructure, and prioritize public transportation.

[03:57:17] We have already submitted written comments that I won't repeat here, but I will raise up a few highlights, including opportunities to substantially improve the bike-ped network and connections in and around the site and very clear language in the active transportation section of the plan that makes safe and comfortable pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure a high priority. We look forward to seeing those priorities reflected in the built environment.

[03:57:42] We also support new plan language encouraging pedestrian and bicycle safety options to be reviewed along both Chainbridge Road and Blake Lane. We are very happy to have joined in support with eight other organizations within the Fairfax Healthy Communities Network, a network whose stated mission is to, quote, envision a Fairfax County where people can live, work, and play in connected communities that are healthy, sustainable, and inclusive.

[03:58:08] Amen. We look forward to working with the county staff, the board, and the developer through the rezoning process to see that mission fulfilled. We intend to remain engaged. And now just a few personal comments. My wife and I are very excited to see a once-in-a-generation opportunity.

[03:58:23] for a large infill development like this and what it offers to Oakden. We're excited that we might live within walking distance of a vibrant community that welcomes nearby residents where we might be able to dine, eat, get a drink, sit outside, perhaps listen to live music, or perhaps something as mundane as buy groceries or run some errands.

[03:58:44] We've been trying unsuccessfully for a long time to downsize to a one-car family, but there are just too many barriers that remain. Prioritizing mixed-use developments such as this and moving away from sprawl will help us move away from carbon dependency by helping eliminate car trips, if not our cars themselves.

[03:59:01] We are also, as Sonia said, a little disappointed that the commission walked back the density numbers somewhat in the plan language, and we hope the potential of this development is not watered down further as we move forward. My wife and I strongly support the county's commitment to addressing equity and housing issues, and this site can help us meet those goals.

[03:59:19] We believe work on housing is critically important, and Oakton will profit from numerous mutually reinforcing benefits of new, stable housing, including better educational outcomes, health improvements, economic stability, and crime reduction.

[03:59:35] On the other end of the spectrum of the housing issue, after what I calculate as a $250,000 investment by FCPS in my son's education, he was in K-12 all through his education, and After landing his first full-time job, after receiving a master's in an IT field, Wahoo Wah, Supervisor Elkhorn, he settled in Richmond, Scott's edition in particular, specifically for his walkability, affordability, and community.

[04:00:06] He walks to work every day, and he can afford a one-bedroom apartment with just a little bit of help from his parents. I can tell you basically the same story for each of his 20-something, each of his four 20-something cousins who represent a loss of young professional talent to cities with better living options.

[04:00:26] And lastly, to close on the topic of the traffic study, the Oakton Congestion and Safety Study, quickly, a short story or anecdote. On November 16, 2022, Leslie Diaz Bonilla, a few days past her 17th birthday, woke up and started her walk to Justice High School, but she didn't make it across Columbia Pike.

[04:00:47] She was hit and killed by a person driving while using the crosswalk at Tyler Street. She was killed despite a shelved 2018 FCDOT Columbia Pike safety study, a study that recommended more than 100 safety upgrades at 33 locations along Columbia Pike, including improvements at Tyler Street, improvements that could have saved her life.

[04:01:10] I don't say that to throw shade at FCDOT. The study is excellent. It includes detailed recommendations with cost estimates and phased timelines for implementation. But we don't need more paper. We need you to commit to implementation and to help us find the funding to make those changes in our community.

[04:01:26] Thank you very much for your time. Thank you, Grace. Appreciate your testimony. Speaker number three is Naveed Easton. And if I'm calling your name, make sure you're down here close. Douglas Schuster, Anika Raman, and Lauren Crum. Welcome. Hello.

[04:01:42] Thank you for hearing my testimony today. My name is Naveed. I volunteer as a local lead with the Fairfax County Chapter of YIMBYs of Northern Virginia, a grassroots organization that includes many Oakton members. My appeal for more housing today represents both my own views and that of YIMBY, a pro-housing organization, but the specific thoughts and details are solely mine as a local resident.

[04:02:02] My wife and I live in a townhome just over a mile from the AT&T campus. I'd like to concur with what was said about the transportation and pedestrian safety issues around the campus. I made a substantial speech about that at the Planning Commission a few weeks back. I hope you can access that testimony, so I won't rehash it here, and I'd like to speak to housing more specifically.

[04:02:18] And excuse me, I'm getting over a cold. I love my townhome, and I'm quite invested in the character of Oakton, but here's the thing. Preserving and enhancing the character of Oakton sometimes means changing our land use and density. My townhome wouldn't exist if the density and FAR of my neighborhood hadn't increased.

[04:02:36] My community used to be single-family homes. Before that, it was farms, at least based on what we found while digging in our backyard. And before that, it was wilderness. Had it stayed wilderness, obviously I wouldn't be living here. And had it stayed single-family homes, I couldn't afford to live here.

[04:02:53] Oakton has a lot of characteristics. We're a bit leafy, we're relatively compact, we're less freeway eyes than Tyson's, let's please keep it that way, and more affordable than Vienna. But the most important aspect of Oakton's character, to me, is all of us, its people. A diverse mix of young families, long-time residents, and others from all walks of life.

[04:03:14] Almost none of us Oakton residents would be living here today if the density and FAR of our neighborhoods hadn't increased at some point in the past when more housing was needed. Density and land use in Oakton changed as our needs changed. That's the only reason we live here. Far be it from us to turn around and declare that now, only now that we're here, it's time to stop those kinds of changes.

[04:03:35] Freezing land use or density doesn't preserve character in any case. I originally got interested in housing and land use when I lived near Cherrydale and Arlington, not far from Virginia Square. I would go for walks around those beautiful neighborhoods, and I often found myself greeted by postings railing against proposed developments of denser housing like townhomes, quadplexes, and condos.

[04:03:54] They had a common pitch, preserve the character of our neighborhood. But this appeal rung pretty hollow when it was posted, as it often was, next to a lot where a multimillionaire bought up a small 3-2 home, knocked it down, and built a giant McMansion. Go walk around Cherrydale today, or honestly Vienna for that matter, and you'll see that the character has changed quite a bit.

[04:04:15] They fought changes to density, and now those formerly upper-middle-class neighborhoods are only accessible to nouveau-rich millionaires. That's not the sort of character I care to fight for in my community. We have a critical shortage of housing both in Oakton and in our county generally. Demand is far outstripping supply.

[04:04:31] We need to build many more homes, and it's hard to do that when all of our land is already built out. The opportunity we have at this AT&T campus is rare in its size and potential. We can infill hundreds of new homes and shape the next chapter of our community's evolution, building it around people, not just cars.

[04:04:47] This supply of homes won't fix affordability, of course, but it will help because today's fancy new condos and townhomes are tomorrow's older, unremarkable condos and townhomes. My townhouse is an example. It was built in the early 80s. It was more affordable to us because several other newer developments were built nearby, and compared to those, it's older, dingier, and therefore cheaper.

[04:05:07] But we love it. Given our critical housing shortfall, disappointing that the overall density in FAR was decreased from 1.0 to 0.88. It's not clear exactly how that decrease will be accomplished, and I urge EYA and the county not to take away from the number of homes to do so. We can't afford to do that. Outside of that, however, honestly, I'm really impressed with how well the Planning Commission responded to community feedback. I'm not sure what I expected, but this was above that expectation. Prioritizing connected park spaces and improvement, incorporating pedestrian and bike safety requirements is appreciated and the follow-on motion to perform an area-wide transportation study is great. The

[04:05:43] devil is in the details and implementation, however. If this neighborhood is approved, which I hope it is, we have at least five years until it's completed. So please present us with a vision for Oakton. Give us a plan on how our design and safety issues will be improved and tell us what we can do to support that plan. I want to do my part. I'm planning to meet with our state representatives in the coming months along with some other community members I've spoken with to talk about the VDOT issue. If the county or any other local residents have further ideas on how us residents can help, my ears and my inbox are open. These conversations can't stop here.

[04:06:18] We are trusting you to follow through. Please do not break that trust. Thank you for your time, your hard work on behalf of our county and community, and please vote for more density and more homes in Oakton. Thank you very much. Speaker number four, we are on speaker number four, Douglas Schuster. Welcome. Thank you very much. Good afternoon. Doug Schuster, president of the Miller Heights Neighborhood Association. We're a civic association that's been around for about 25 years, representing a few hundred homes. What we like to think of as the town of Oakton.

[04:06:49] For us, Oakton is more than a census designated area. We're a community. We live there. We work there. We play there. Some of our kids go to Oakton Elementary and all of our kids go to Oakton High School. The town of Oakton has history, including a historic schoolhouse, a historic church. And so when a major new development is proposed like this one, we take a keen interest as demonstrated by the exceptionally strong Oakton civic engagement on this project as you're here today. Before I continue, I want to thank you all for your public service. I'm a former federal government worker and local civic leader, and I realize it's not all fame and fortune, so thank

[04:07:25] you for your good work. There's a strong sense that the vote today is a fait accompli, and that would be really unfortunate because I think this project, as currently designed, is clearly not what the Oakton community wants and needs. The interesting thing about the project is that most of the folks you'll hear about from tonight, both for and against, actually agree on many parts of this project and this plan. Most of us are supportive of mixed-use developments, green space, pedestrian and bicycle access, increased housing, especially affordable housing, in the county. Our disagreement is about density and intensity. It's about traffic and how much more we can sacrifice our ability to move

[04:08:05] safely and efficiently around town. It's about whether a child can walk across the street to Oakton Elementary School or bike to the Oak Mar Community Center. Our disagreement is about whether this huge project can be developed as an island until itself versus as an integral part of our town, taking into consideration the poor state of our transportation infrastructure, as Mr. Looney described. I'd like to share a quote from an email I received from UIA a while back.

[04:08:34] I 100% agree with you that county and state have created an untenable issue for the residents of Oakton by creating an unsafe traffic sewer from Route 66 to the town of Vienna. And, you know, with its very accurate description, with a constant stream of cars going 50 miles per hour or greater sometimes, a majority of the sidewalks are deemed unsafe or uncomfortable by the developer's own traffic study and where we've had several traffic related deaths recently so what do we have a well-designed mixed-use development in the middle of a traffic sewer a development that will soon fill that sewer beyond its capacity and as mr looney stated there is a major problem but as far

[04:09:13] as i can tell there's no realistic solutions that have been offered except for this rosehaven plan which nobody really likes most of us came into this process with a spirit of collaboration and a bit of excitement about the prospect of a new, innovative, mixed-use development in Oakton.

[04:09:32] We didn't come into this process to fight with the county or oppose development. Unfortunately, we don't feel that the county has sincerely engaged with the community during the process. I'm sure you all know the game that developers and others play where you say, do you like Plan A or do you like Plan B?

[04:09:49] And Plan B is really a throwaway to make everyone happy with Plan A. Well, we rather got, do you like Plan A or Plan A? And can we sprinkle in some amenities on top to make it go down easier? That's basically, we've been at the 1.0 far practically the entire time.

[04:10:05] It came down a smidge during the planning commission here. That's about it. The staff and developer were receptive and responsive where they could be. But one is understandably driven by profit, and the other is driven by political leadership.

[04:10:22] And, you know, the political leadership encouraged civic engagement early on, and we took that up, but ultimately they were dismissive of the Oakton-based civic associations that rose to the challenge when they realized that they weren't buying into Plan A. At least the chairman of the Planning Commission finally admitted at the end of last week's hearing that the AT&T proposal is not the plan the Oakton community wanted and that the county was rather forcing in density to meet the housing demands. Miller Heights, along with other Oakton-based civic

[04:10:57] associations are asking that the county, one last time, that right-size this development to fit the needs of local residents and fit with the existing transportation infrastructure. We're asking you to work harder to get the density that the county needs at the only real transit-oriented development in the area at Vienna Metro, where large areas remain undeveloped and where properties are being redeveloped at lower densities than at this AT&T site. We thank you for the proposal for the transportation corridor study. Please do make sure it gets funded, and the projects actually do

[04:11:34] get funded after that. Thank you for your time. Thank you very much. Our next speaker is Anika Raman, who is a caller. Are you on the line? Yes. Thank you, Chair McKay. Welcome. Thank you.

[04:11:50] Hi, my name is Anika, and I'm the Fairfax Director for Northern Virginia Affordable Housing Alliance, also known as Navaha. Navaha is dedicated to advocating for policy and parties that expand housing opportunities and address the critical needs for affordable housing across our region. Although I've personally worked in Fairfax for several years, I cannot live or afford to live in Fairfax. The shortage of affordable homes and rising properties and rental prices make it increasingly difficult for many residents like me to continue living here. That's why supporting the AT&T Open Development Plan is critical and necessary to step forward in tackling this challenge. Navaja is proud to support this development plan. We believe it will enhance the overall impact of the development for both current and future residents of Fairfax County.

[04:12:30] We support the addition of language that encourages partnerships with outside entities to increase the availability of affordable housing. These partnerships are crucial in leveraging additional resources and expertise to create affordable homes for families. Community use. The project will maintain retail space while allowing community use.

[04:12:45] This will ensure the development serves as a place to live and a hub for community activities, enhancing the overall sense of place. Environment and parks. The draft plan includes several necessary environmental and parking improvements, such as creating open space and a well-designed urban park and preserving existing trees along the property's parameter.

[04:13:02] The redevelopment plan also includes any new parks, areas to complement Board Street Park, a central green common, and one-mile share used paths forming a linear park around the site's parameter. This will provide residents and the surrounding community with much-needed green space and create more excellent connectivity. Additionally, the redevelopment plan will feature improved stormwater management, green infrastructure, and protection for local streams, supporting the environmental sustainability alongside community development.

[04:13:28] We also pleased and hope to have the transportation study. The AT&T cited near key transit options, including Vienna Metro, local buses, service, and express bus in the I-66 high occupancy toll lanes. It is well connected to two major regional multi-use trails, the Jerry Connolly Cross Country Trail and the 66 Apparel Trail.

[04:13:47] The proposed development offers an option to improve safety and accessibility for residents and visitors. key transportation improvement in the planning food enhanced transportation options better bus stop amenities safer pedestrian and bicycle connections and traffic signals ensure safe crossings including one for families near oakland elementary school additionally the plan and area transportation will help improve mobility for surrounding community navaja supports the plan amendment and redevelopment of the atmt community site which will deliver essential housing walkable community with e-reach access transit along with improved environmental design and ample open space

[04:14:22] we really urge you to approve this plan to deliver on affordable housing goals thank you thank you very much we are now on speaker number six lauren crumb with shelly deutch and they will be followed by linda byrne rachel hums and sophia fulfilled if you are one of those individuals please be ready for your turn to testify welcome thank you and good afternoon my name is lauren Crum, and this is Shelly Deutsch. We're with the Greater Oakton Community Association.

[04:14:56] GOCA is an all-volunteer nonprofit organization established to build a sense of community in Oakton and help to preserve and enhance its character. We have a mailing list of some 700 households, businesses, and nonprofits, and a sizable social media following. Because Oakton does not have its own elected representatives, we frequently fill the void of representing the views expressed to us to advance and defend the interests of our community. GOCA has been engaged in this process, this SSPA process, for this nomination from the first public meeting of the Planning Commission in March 2023. We cautioned then that the proposed density was

[04:15:32] problematic for many reasons, but we felt it our responsibility to understand and support what the community wanted, so GOCA maintained a neutral position. Instead, GOCA worked to encourage community involvement through other local grassroots groups, including Options for Oakton and Smart Growth for Oakden.

[04:15:50] These groups, as well as ours, met with EYA, staff of the Providence District, the Planning Commission, FCDOT, and with state representatives. There was a public forum on Facebook where we all shared information. Shelly and I are proud of how our community came together for this. Though we did not always agree, we all learned in this process how important it was for us to come together.

[04:16:09] That said, the process for which we have reached this point was more difficult than it should have been. Despite the major change this development represents for our community, there was no task force in which the community was involved. Throughout this process, we have been asked to participate in presentations by the county or the developer, frequently one way, which did not allow for the evolution of a common solution in which we are all invested.

[04:16:33] It was only through the significant efforts of our local grassroots groups that the interests of residents were pulled and represented. We appreciate that the county must plan for not just today, but for the future, and must address the current shortage in housing.

[04:16:49] But what we are saying is, as our elected leaders, you need to look out for those who live in the area today as well. And while there are appealing aspects of this development, most of the people we hear from think this development, think this development as allowed by the amended comprehensive plan, is still too dense for this location and will make driving intolerable and walking still more unsafe.

[04:17:12] The community concerns that we heard about traffic and density, as proposed at the AT&T site, have been exacerbated by the proposed buy-write developments that are simultaneously proceeding for the Redwood Plaza and Flint Hill Office Park across Chambridge Road. With these new developments, we are now looking at possibly adding over 1,400 new residences and up to 120,000 square feet of retail to the burden of our roads and what our infrastructure needs to accommodate. Moreover, the developer has said that it needs to bring and outside customers to make its proposed retail succeed.

[04:17:51] While this retail may be walkable for the surrounding communities, the developer says he's counting on outside traffic to make it profitable, which especially because the site is two miles from the metro and very close to 66, means more cars on the road.

[04:18:09] The developer's own traffic study analysis shows almost 13,000 additional trips on a weekend day, of which 72% is the result of retail as compared to the current situation. 123 and Germantown are key commuting routes.

[04:18:27] The traffic study shows that by VDOT standards, seven nearby intersections are already failing, and this development will make that worse. We invite each of you to come out and try to turn left from Miller Road onto 123 to get to Hunter Mill Road, a key community byway.

[04:18:47] You will see how some are forced to go beyond Hunter Mill Road and make an illegal left turn into the shopping center there. At rush hour, it is frequently impossible to turn into Hunter Mill otherwise. However, despite the findings of the traffic study that found failing traffic conditions all around the site, it was not until the very last minute after the meeting of the Planning Commission to finalize the proposed amendment that a start was made to address the community concerns.

[04:19:19] The small downsizing the FAR, the recommended connection of green spaces across the site, and the call to explore a traffic study were welcome if insufficient changes. But that is the junction that we're at. Despite having shown up and expressed the community's concerns regularly, as advised to do, throughout the process we were also repeatedly told that any meaningful changes would come only through the rezoning process.

[04:19:46] But although the zoning board has had the EYA's application for close to a year, Before the amendment was even to be adopted, the community has not heard one word about it. I'll finish very quickly. We continue to hear from people that are not happy with the current amendment that you're voting on this evening. If you do vote to approve this amendment without significant changes, we strongly urge you to consider two additional actions. First, we urge you to instruct the Zoning Board to start outreach to the community and to begin a process of meaningful community involvement. And second, we also strongly urge you to immediately follow through on funding the proposed traffic study and search for

[04:20:26] mitigations for the chain bridge corridor, that you be prepared to work with VDOT, FCDOT, and the developer to bring these to fruition. Thank you. Thank you both. Thank you for your time. Sure. We're on speaker number seven, Linda Byrne, to be followed by Rachel Hams, Sophia Fafield, and Lauren Hershey.

[04:20:45] If I called your name, please make sure you're ready. Welcome, Ms. Byrne. Thank you. Are we to evening yet? Good evening, Chairman McKay and my supervisor Palchak and the rest of the board members. My name is Linda Byrne. My husband and I have lived in Oakton almost 50 years. Along with my testimony today, I have a photograph or a picture. I don't know if they can put it on the screen. I've also given you a book with our 250th coming up shortly. It would be nice

[04:21:25] if you knew all about Oakton. I've agonized over what I could possibly say to you tonight that would convince you to postpone a decision on the number of dwelling units planned for the AT&T property in Oakton until the traffic situation is adequately addressed. Oakton's road network is already strained. Anyone who travels Blake Lane, Germantown Road, or 123 during peak hours knows that congestion is worsening. Adding a high-density development without first resolving these traffic

[04:22:01] issues will only compound the problem, making daily commutes more frustrating and more importantly creating safety risks for residents, pedestrians, and school children. I'm not here to oppose responsible development. I recognize the need for thoughtful growth. However, approving this project before a clear, actionable traffic mitigation plan is in place would be putting the cart before the horse. Infrastructure must come first. But I ask you this, what happens if there

[04:22:39] is no viable traffic solution? If studies confirm that the existing road network simply cannot accommodate the increased demand, what will be the county's response? Will we still proceed with development at any cost, knowing the consequences? I urge you to delay a decision on the number of dwelling units until a comprehensive traffic study is conducted and real tangible solutions are identified. If no solution exists, then we must be prepared to make the difficult but necessary

[04:23:15] choice to scale back the project accordingly. The residents evoked and deserve a plan that prioritizes both growth and the quality of our lives. Thank you. Thank you very much, Linda. Speaker number eight is Rachel Homs. I hope I'm pronouncing that right.

[04:23:35] Sophia Fafield, Lauren Hershey, Robert Means. In that order, we'll be receiving testimony. Speaker number eight, welcome. Thank you very much. I'm Rachel Hammes, and I live on the border of Oakton and Vienna. I'm a resident of the Providence District.

[04:23:52] My neighbors and I will suffer firsthand the consequences of this development if our chronic traffic problems are not fixed before we develop. While the traffic problems will extend far beyond Chain Bridge, I will focus my comments on driving north on Chain Bridge Road.

[04:24:10] I know Supervisor Palchuk has personal experience driving on the two lanes of Chain Bridge at rush hour, but have others on the board personally experienced the current volume and intensity of traffic in Oakton? Have you walked in our shoes?

[04:24:26] Envision driving north on Chain Bridge on only two lanes. There is a mere half mile between Germantown Road to the entrance of Oakton Shopping Center. Over that half mile, there are already four traffic lights, and the three lights from Miller Road to Hunter Mill and Hunter Mill to the Oakton Shopping Center are only separated by 0.1 mile or less.

[04:24:50] Each of these intersections have adjoining streets that provide access to and from Chain Bridge. These access points jam up and prevent cars from traveling freely north. Driving this route during rush hour is already a big mess.

[04:25:06] And yet what is before you tonight is a recommendation to develop the AT&T site at .774 and a retail of 120,000 square feet. EYA's very own transportation study showed the development will generate an additional 11,000 to 13,000 more trips along Chain Bridge.

[04:25:28] And that transportation study does not even take into account all of the other planned development in Flint Hill. And the study clearly identified retail as the significant culprit of these increased total trips.

[04:25:44] It's egregious that the recommendation before you tonight failed to include the study and the harmful effects increased density and retail will have on our community's current transportation infrastructure. Instead, it includes half-baked vehicular ideas with suggestions to consider and promises to explore improvements, but no concrete and actionable solutions.

[04:26:08] Do the hard work now, before development begins. Reduce the retail space and FAR. Do not approve this plan without first solving our chronic traffic problems. Would you knowingly send your children out to sea on a boat that you knew was not seaworthy?

[04:26:28] And yet, today, you are asked to approve a development plan that, as is, will drown local residents in the traffic sewer of Chain Bridge Road. I support tree preservation and affordable housing and pedestrian and biking safety, but not at the expense of crippling traffic and a degraded quality of life.

[04:26:52] Thank you very much. Thank you. Speaker number nine, is speaker number nine Sophia Fulfield here? Sophia Fulfield, not here. Speaker number 10, Lauren Hershey, is here to be followed by Robert Means and Barbara Hurd.

[04:27:08] If I called your name, please be ready to testify. Welcome. Thank you all very much. I know you all. I'm Lauren Hershey. I'm going to speak impromptu on an action item you can take separate and apart from consideration and totally related to the project under consideration.

[04:27:28] I'm first going to hold up a bike map. The Cross County Trail runs right along Germantown Road. What are we waiting for? There are no signs there. It runs for several hundred yards right up to the Oakmont Recreation Center grounds.

[04:27:47] Then it runs all the way into the city of Fairfax. You could get the developer. You could get the park authority. you could ask the supervisor to make it happen. Let's get that identified. And then I'm going to give you another non-sequitur, Miles Little Red Book.

[04:28:10] Now another non-sequitur. Eat, drink, and be healthy from Harvard Medical School. Bottom of the pyramid is stay active. Your own program, County Fairfax's Community Health Improvement Program.

[04:28:32] You can do an action item by July 4th. one more or two more. How old am I tomorrow? How to become a fit senior. Think about your seniors.

[04:28:48] Think about the walk. Think about the section six of the 10 section cross county trail. I'll close it out with two other good ones. A great book on foot, subtitled Guided Walks in England, France, and the United States. Last book. Maybe you've heard of this guy, Abraham Lincoln,

[04:29:22] 2024 publication. Worth reading. Maybe I'll send it to you. Author Alan Gualzo, Thomas W. Smith, Distinguished Research Scholar in the James Madison Program in American Ideals and Institutions at Princeton University. Lincoln, Democracy, and the American Experiment. I thank you all very much for your service. It's been inspiring to be here today. Thank you very much, Lauren. Always

[04:29:56] appreciate your testimony. We are going to move to speaker number 11. Robert Means, is he here? He is here. Barbara Hurd, David Harvey. We'll round out speakers. We are on speaker number 11. Robert Means, welcome. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. That's tough to follow. My name is Rob Means. I speak on behalf of Options for Oakton regarding the IT&T site. Options Providence for Oakton is an all-volunteer grassroots community group that has advocated on behalf of Oakton residents on land use issues since the 1990s.

[04:30:34] For the past two years, our group has gathered input from the Oakton community regarding development on the AT&T site, including via surveys, letter campaigns to the county, and public meetings. We've shared much of that work product in our written submission for today's public hearing.

[04:30:54] We want to acknowledge the planning staff with whom we've interacted, and also Providence District's Planning Commissioner. They were patient and constructive with us throughout the plan amendment process. Indeed, language in the staff report and Commissioner Hancock's remarks at the Planning Commission hearing earlier this month make clear that they share our concerns about congestion and safety, green space, and the character of Oakton.

[04:31:18] At the same time, we are disappointed that the actual text of the proposed amendments fails to squarely address the concerns we have identified. Our work shows that many Oakton residents remain deeply concerned about the intensity of redevelopment efforts at the AT&T site, particularly its impact on traffic and pedestrian safety, our dwindling green spaces, our community's infrastructure, and our quality of life.

[04:31:44] One of the only studies examining the site was a transportation impact analysis that is not addressed in the staff report. It calculates that as many as 13,000 vehicle trips to and from the site during peak hours on weekends. This represents an increase of well over 1,000% from current levels, with retail being the primary driver of that congestion.

[04:32:07] There have been several accidents and two fatalities, as you know, in Oakton over the past six months. We strongly support Commissioner Hancock's follow-on amendment to authorize a transportation study of the Chain Bridge Road corridor running through Oakton, but we remain deeply concerned that improvements that result from that study won't be realized before more accidents in our community.

[04:32:31] We need safeguarding now. Therefore, we urge the board to incorporate the following additional changes in the comprehensive plan amendments. Number one, according to the transportation study, retail will be the primary driver of traffic near the site. We ask for the comprehensive plan to mitigate this impact by specifying that at least 35% of the non-residential uses permitted on the site be reserved for non-retail community uses, such as daycare, space for public art, and programming for young people and seniors. To ease community skepticism regarding infrastructure impacts,

[04:33:08] the comprehensive plan should specify that an economic study must be completed and shared with the community prior to any approvals of retail square footage during rezoning. Data from this study should holistically address already existing retail in Oakton and should be made public.

[04:33:25] The staff recommendation includes language regarding the preservation and creation of park space adequate to the needs of present and future residents, but includes no guarantees as to total acreage. Therefore, we urge the board to consider the following additional change to the comprehensive plan.

[04:33:42] The expansion of Borg Street Park contemplated by staff should be governed under local suburban neighborhood park guidelines as opposed to the urban parks framework, since this park is located within a suburban neighborhood and merely abuts the suburban center.

[04:33:59] We respectfully ask that you consider our requests. My colleague Barbara Hurd will add more about Optins for Oakton's perspectives as we move forward. Thank you. Thank you very much. Speaker number 12 is indeed Barbara Hurd welcome. Hi, good evening. My name is Barbara Hurd and I live off of Vail Road in Oakton. I've actually been here for 32 years. I've been a member of the Options for Oakton group for the past two years and my testimony today will address the comprehensive plan amendment for the AT&T site in Oakton. Recently at a meeting with Supervisor

[04:34:39] Palchik and Commissioner Hancock, we were asked to provide community feedback about the planning and zoning process. We appreciated being able to share our thoughts with them, and I would now like to share that feedback with the entire board. In the case of the AT&T site, the plan amendment process has been combined with concurrent rezoning application, a conversation about policy, about a vision for Oakden and about the feasibility of creating a core on the site,

[04:35:13] the kind of high-level conceptual discussion required for a comprehensive plan amendment, was stifled by the developers' premature designs for the site, including ambitious numbers of units and retail square footage, along with the size and placement of parks.

[04:35:32] While EYA has welcomed community input, it has been inflexible on the scale of retail development. This prompted substantial skepticism and even outright distrust of the plan amendment process, especially after the transportation study was released showing how much traffic the proposed retail would bring to the site.

[04:35:59] We believe that greater involvement and community outreach by the supervisor's office from the outset would have resulted in greater public confidence in the process. Going forward, we would ask the board to ensure that comprehensive plan amendments and rezoning applications do not run concurrently or in the alternate, that each supervisor's office takes charge of the process to engage with residents instead of leaving it up to the developer.

[04:36:35] Thanks so much for your consideration. Thank you. We are on speaker number 13, David Harvey. Harvey here, and then we have a series of, a long series of video testimony to play. Welcome, David. Thank you. Good evening, everybody.

[04:36:52] I live in the Providence District and was born and raised in the D.C. area. Tonight it's important to ask one question. Will our community chart a new, more sustainable path, or will we settle for business as usual? In my remarks, I will share why I support this comprehensive proposed amendment, because it helps solve our housing crisis, build strong, sustainable community, and maintain the highest scenario of living we are accustomed to in Fairfax County.

[04:37:15] First, I am in support of this project because it allows us to pivot from something the community no longer needs, an empty office park, into something that our community desperately needs, more housing. In the past decade, the D.C. area has failed to construct enough housing to meet growing demand. The Metropolitan Washington Council of Governance said in 2019 that 320,000 new homes can be built in the region by 2030.

[04:37:38] So far, the region is only on track to produce 68% of that goal. Fairfax County is only 36% of its target goal, far lagging behind its neighboring jurisdictions in Virginia, per the Washington Post. As a result, for the first time in my lifetime, parts of the D.C. area are beginning to shrink because folks can no longer afford to live here.

[04:37:58] Instead of putting on roots in Nova, most of my friends, who grew up here, are thinking of moving out of the area to a place they can afford to buy and rent. Some folks in the audience may even have friends or children facing a similar dilemma. Put simply, our American dream in NOVA is slipping away.

[04:38:16] This proposal helps tackle the housing crisis by permitting building a diversified housing for diversified needs. This means that folks like me will be able to call the Oakton area home like many residents have been able to call Oakton home. Second, this project will provide something the community essentially needs, a walkable place to gather.

[04:38:33] The roads are needed to repair, the playground is a hazard during heat waves, and sidewalks can be built or improved to make this a safe place to gather. So what are we getting for this proposal? We're getting new roads, we're getting a new grocery store, new shops, restaurant parks, and more importantly, a place for us to gather.

[04:38:48] Most neighborhoods would jump at an opportunity like this. Approving this project will ensure that Oakton remains a place to live, work, and play for generations. Third, this proposal will help diversify our local economy and help plug our budget shortfall, lest we want to cut services or raise taxes.

[04:39:05] And why are we facing this budget shortfall? The revenue from non-residential properties, like the one we were talking about, are shrinking due to high vacancy rates. And to attract and retain our public employees, we're having to pay them more. It's all related. This proposal will help solve this.

[04:39:21] In conclusion, I ask folks today, how will we attract, if we do not approve this proposal, how will we attract and retain young folks if our souring local job market is coupled by sky-high housing prices? These problems will not go away on their own. The longer we wait to move forward with a common-sense proposal such as this one, the harder this is going to be to reverse.

[04:39:42] So please support this amendment, and thank you very much for your time. Thank you very much for your testimony. We are now on speaker number 14, and we have a long series of video testimony here, starting with speaker number 14, which is David Fisher.

[04:39:58] If we can play his video. Team civil servants and members of the Planning Commission and Board, my name is B. David Fisher, David, Flintwood President, directly bordering the site. I have been part of the Oakton community for 25 years and a longtime resident of Fairfax County in Oakton alone.

[04:40:19] As an adult, some of my contributions were deploying an art program in schools, serving in my church, scouting over a decade, helping make eagles and mentoring and actively engaging them. then actively serving in my community and serving my local community.

[04:40:39] I began as an HOA member at large some 25 years ago, then welcomed every new resident with a disclosure packet and welcome packet and deployed information, bonding together during recessions, snows, and good times for 15 years as a secretary, in addition to any employed work.

[04:40:59] I served in barbecues and cleanups. I've worked with vendors as vice president and president, paved my community as president and more than I can reiterate here or you want to hear about. All this is to say it's not my accomplishments. It's the point I have rooted in my life here.

[04:41:18] And it's a place I truly care about as well as all the members of my community. Over the years, I've seen how Oakton neighborhoods have grown and changed while I befriended small business owners until they retired or even passed away. Funerals I attend, I have made friends here.

[04:41:35] The AT&T campus pad has been part of our Oakton life, often repurposed as a sled hill in winter and a walking area when AT&T allowed it. But I've also noticed areas where we've fallen behind, especially when it comes to walkability. New housing options for generations behind mine, like Gen Y and Gen Z, whom I deeply care about, who deserve opportunity, and a lack of nearby gathering spaces for families and neighbors, which is underserved by a modest, cute little space like Oakton Shopping Center on Chainbridge Road.

[04:42:05] I'm excited about the certain key factors of the Comprehensive Plan Amendment 202-3009 to allow for a mixed-use development on the AT&T side. But on this video, I'll speak for a moment about the aggregate will of the Flintwood Community Association.

[04:42:20] And yes, even myself may have some personal disagreement on points, but it is my job as president and my duty to speak the majority voice I've heard from members of the community, your constituents as wanted key elements the project contains.

[04:42:36] So firstly, the AT&T campus at Paddock Concrete is already used, not a pristine forest. And I know from our lifetime here, we see other developers not even engage our community the way the community at EYA has, and erect large, unadorned, square brutalist facades with no walking space that do not speak to our Oakton identity along 123.

[04:42:58] EYA has offered to work with our communities consistently to create clean lines, but a concept that was aesthetically pleasing with components of foliage in outdoor areas, including maintaining and preserving the focal maple trees that reach 50 feet in height and light up like fire in the fading November sunlight.

[04:43:18] Additionally, EYA is offering a mixed-use development and has made a commitment to tapering or adjusting the density of their footprint to complement communities that are adjacent, such as Flintwood members, and respect green space.

[04:43:34] So secondly, with a most attractive option, we have amenities like a possible clubhouse, a pool, and especially a walking path and a field berm in front where children can play. In fact, EYA is lobbying with you and the Board of Supervisors to grandfather our community into using property amenities like this, field berms, and others, thereby raising our home values.

[04:43:57] Thirdly, and lastly, the development will create additional traffic, certainly, as that seems inevitable. However, our communities are already locked in traffic from the lack of foresight by VDOT over the years. as though our Oakton property at an earlier time and less prominence was simply forgotten.

[04:44:15] Iweye is offering a small grocer plus shops where perhaps aging Gen X and baby boomer residents will be able to obtain groceries, enjoy an outdoor park, fellowship with friends. And imagine how beautiful a smaller lit version of the Mosaic District would be dressed up all around the holidays.

[04:44:40] So in closing, I voice support personally as a 25-year property owner and speak the majority voice of Flintwood Community Association to encourage the adoption of the Plan Amendment 202-3009 in accordance with county law so we may continue to work with EIA, who has listened thus far in 26 iterations since beginning dialogue two years ago with me and the Flintwood community.

[04:45:05] Thank you for your time and good night. Thank you. Our next video is from Speaker 15, Jennifer Pratis. I've been facing to the AT&T site for 22 years and can actually see the field outside my kitchen window.

[04:45:23] I'm often in the Park, Board Street Park, which is next to the AT&T site, hosting work days. As an invasive management site leader for SCPA, I oversee the removal of invasive plants and plant-native ones in their place, and I've been doing this for about 14 years. I am speaking to the Commission today to voice both my support and concerns for the new development on the AT&T property.

[04:45:42] When I first moved to Oakton from New York 32 years ago, the thing I missed the most was being able to walk to town to see my friends, who also walked, to hang out in a local pizzeria, diner, park, or community center. Now it will be possible for many of us. Not only will we have shops, but also a small community center created with the help of Arts Fairfax.

[04:45:58] I hope the center will be an indoor and outdoor venue for both meeting friends and art installations. Change is inevitable, and with an increase in population, Oakton needs more housing, and the sustainable, pedestrian-friendly neighborhood EYA is offering can be a plus for Oakton. That said, my neighbors and I did and still do have concerns mostly involving green space and traffic.

[04:46:18] First, we convinced EYA to save the small stream and the surrounding trees. Later, we and others asked for a green area in the center and to save the often utilized field and to extend Board Street Park. EYA complied with our request, but most of us would still like to see those green areas expanded.

[04:46:35] I've heard that the developers of Mosaic, upon seeing the popularity of their green, wished that they had dedicated more space to the green. EYA also offered to close off part of Flagpole Lane to add an additional acre of parkland. Many of us thought that was a wonderful idea, as not only did it add green space, but it meant fewer cars zooming around the corner and passing the playground.

[04:46:55] Unfortunately, others disagreed, and EYA dropped the idea. Another concern I had related to traffic was that people would cut through the main road from 123 to Board Street and pass the playground. I proposed to EYA to add a pedestrian mall, which would not only split the road, but in my opinion, make the area that much more pedestrian-friendly.

[04:47:13] Unfortunately, economics dictated otherwise, and that idea was nixed. But as a compromise, EYA designated part of the road as a Wunnerf, a shared street where cars need to go very slowly. To be honest, I think EYA has made a good faith effort to take into account all their conflicting needs, including their own.

[04:47:31] They are a business, and I respect that. The county is a different matter. The government's job is to protect the welfare of the people, not to make money. The traffic is already a disaster, in part due to poor planning when Oakton was being developed. Public transportation, including perhaps a free shuttle to the metro during rush hour, needs to be encouraged, as are safe walking and bike trails.

[04:47:52] I'm not a traffic expert, but I think every traffic calming method study needs to be considered. That said, I totally disagree with the road cutting through the development simply so drivers stuck in traffic on Germantown could quickly get to White Granite, which, by the way, also backs up during rush hour. That would only make the new community less pedestrian-friendly.

[04:48:09] Speaking of traffic, I agree with options for Oakton in saying that the county should have done more to alleviate traffic prior to adding more density. Since it wasn't, I agree with Douglas Stewart, who wrote in Sierra Club's Cascade, that the plan and future entitlements for any subsequent rezoning include an action and funding plan that outline which improvements will be made when and tie the improvements to the phasing of the development so that as many of these improvements as possible are on the ground when the new housing and business is open.

[04:48:36] Finally, green space. Green space is not a luxury. When my friends and I were fighting to save Blake Lane Park, we discovered that our area of Oakton was already short on the green space recommended for the population. And although I agree with the wording in the plan text that calls for flexible open spaces that can be used by the public, I would like the county to continue to work with EYA to add more green areas, maximizing usable park space, and if possible, creating the five-acre park requested by the community.

[04:49:02] I think that if more green space is added and the traffic mitigation actions and pedestrian safety solutions are clearly laid out within the plan, then the county should approve the plan amendment. Thank you. Our next video is from Michelle Kotoff-Rizzo.

[04:49:21] Good evening, Planning Commission. I'm Mikkel Kotafrizo, and I'm sending this video in support of the new amendments for the new mixed-use development of the AT&T site. I am a resident of 4th Street, and I would be directly impacted by the new construction. I am very familiar with the location, and I frequently take walks around the neighborhood.

[04:49:42] The site is strikingly large. It is conveniently located between many homes and parks with intent to integrate the area's commercial, residential, and public spaces to create a new public and vibrant core for the Oakton community. I would be very excited to see more local parks, dining areas, grocery stores, and businesses that are within walking distance of my neighborhood.

[04:50:06] I want my community to be safer and more accessible, not just for car users, but also for pedestrians, young people, and seniors. I am also excited to make my neighborhood more accessible in order to allow for more economic and cultural diversity. As someone who values walking through my neighborhood and cultural output, I am excited to see how this new development will attract new people and businesses.

[04:50:28] This is an investment in our future and in a space that we all can be proud of. I urge you to approve this project not just as a development, but as a commitment to smart and sustainable growth for our community. Thank you for your consideration and the opportunity to testify.

[04:50:46] Thank you. We now are on speaker 17, Sonny Singh. We can play his video. Good evening, members of the Planning Commission Board. My name is Sonny Singh. I'm a resident of Vienna, Virginia, and I've lived here for four years now. And my son goes to school in Oakton, Virginia, at Flint Hill School, and we pass by the AT&T site very frequently.

[04:51:10] It's a rare property, both in its size and location, with a unique potential to integrate commercial, residential, and public spaces to create a vibrant core to the Oakton-Vienna community. I fully support the Comprehensive Plan Amendment PA-2023-00009 to allow for mixed-use development on the AT&T site.

[04:51:31] I'm especially excited to see a proposal on long-weighted area-wide amendments that create well-designed, publicly accessible, connected urban parks, including a dog park, kids' play area, central park spaces, surrounded by retail for the Oakton community to gather and enjoy time with friends and family.

[04:51:49] We've been looking forward to something similar to this for a very long time. And we're really excited with having family in the area. And we have one child that goes to Flynn Hill currently and we'll have two more going to school in Oakland eventually.

[04:52:05] So a total of three children in the area. And we're very excited about the potential of having something like this coming in place at the old AT&T site. Again, my name is Sunny Singh. I'm a resident of 441 Courthouse Road, Southwest Vienna, Virginia, 22183.

[04:52:23] I urge you to approve this project, not just as a development, but a commitment to smart, sustainable growth for our community. Thank you very much for your consideration and the opportunity to let me testify. Thank you. Thank you. We're now on Speaker 18, Joshua Booth. Another video.

[04:52:40] Hello. I'm Joshua Booth, Linconia resident and member of YIMBYs of Nova. You should support building housing at 18 Teotin because housing is too expensive in northern Virginia. We need to get inflation under control, and housing costs are the biggest contributor right now.

[04:52:56] We all experienced how the recent period of high inflation made living here less affordable. While food and gas prices have stopped being a major contributor to inflation, the San Francisco Federal Reserve reports that the cost of shelter continues to make up most of the inflation right now. Making housing more affordable will help us conquer inflation.

[04:53:15] Fairfax County suffers higher housing costs than the nation at large. The county is a desirable place to live due to having so many job opportunities and amenities. The demand is high for places to live in the Fairfax Planning District, which includes Oakton. You can see this demand for housing in the low vacancy rates and in the high rents that landlords can charge for their apartments in the Fairfax Planning District.

[04:53:37] Landlords can charge higher rents because people don't have any other option. These are statistics from 2022, but a quick review of Apartments.com shows that prices have only gotten higher. Clearly, we need to do something about high rents. Luckily, there is a solution.

[04:53:53] Build more housing. Minneapolis has built more housing than other Midwest cities and has seen rents fall, making housing more affordable. Austin, Texas has also built a tremendous amount of new housing and has also seen rents fall. We can do the same here in Fairfax County and reap the rewards of happier residents with more money to spend elsewhere.

[04:54:14] One highly visible aspect of the AT&T Oakton redevelopment will be retail that is tailored to the needs of the surrounding residents. Think about Scout on the Circle, where residents can easily walk to Giant for some groceries, TDM for some bubble tea, or to the urgent care to help a sick child.

[04:54:30] Nothing is stopping existing residents from shopping at the current Giant, but wouldn't it be more convenient to bring all those services closer to existing residents? The redevelopment of AT&T Oakton isn't just fulfilling the long-standing vision of the Flint Hills Suburban Center. It's bringing investment for community priorities.

[04:54:47] Oakton residents absolutely deserve safer streets with or without this development. However, it's hard to get on VDOT's priority list. This development will be a signal to VDOT that Oakton is a community that should be at the top of the list for safety improvements, not just a funnel for cars driving to Reston and Vienna.

[04:55:05] I'd like to finish by highlighting the opportunity provided by the I-66 Parallel Trail. New residents will have more options for commuting from Oakton besides getting into a car. It takes only 15 minutes to ride a bike from AT&T Oakton to the Vienna Metro, where safe bicycle storage protects your ride while you're away at work.

[04:55:23] For those who choose to bicycle to Metro, cycling back home will be the highlight of the day. Every person riding the short distance to Metro is improving their health, taking cars off streets, and having fun doing it. Let's invite more people to experience a sustainable future in Oakton.

[04:55:41] Thank you. We are on speaker number 19, Renee Grebe. Another video. I'm McKay and members of the Board of Supervisors. I'm Renee Grebe, Northern Virginia Conservation Advocate for Nature Forward. I'm also a Fairfax County resident who cares about how our county is redeveloped with an eye towards planning for the future.

[04:56:01] I co-chair the Fairfax Healthy Communities Network in my role with Nature Forward. and we submitted joint written comments with eight other partners in support of this plan amendment for the AT&T Oakton campus. Nature Forward is Washington, D.C.'s region's oldest independent environmental organization, and in our conservation advocacy, we prioritize human health and access to nature, biodiversity and habitats, fighting the climate crisis, and sustainable land use. I'm here on video tonight to ask you to please support this plan amendment. When Nature Forward reviewed all of the SSPA nominations with our Fairfax Healthy

[04:56:37] Community Partners two years ago, the AT&T campus nomination stood out for a number of reasons. It would provide a variety of housing options to ensure people could afford to live where they work, walkability, bikeability, and access to transit in public spaces. At last month's Planning Commission public hearing, I appreciated Chris French's testimony and his eloquent comment highlighting the frustration of the current area being locked into car dependency by past development practices. This plan amendment proposal is part of the transportation solution.

[04:57:11] Redevelopment brings opportunity and we appreciate the planning commission's follow-on motion for an area-wide transportation study as well. One of the most exciting parts of this site is that the redevelopment provides an opportunity to transform a massive surface parking lot into a more socially vibrant and ecologically healthier area. For this plan amendment specifically, we appreciate the Planning Commission's recommendation of a stormwater management section in the plan itself, which provides measurable stormwater management goals for quality and quantity and aims to retain

[04:57:46] the first inch of rainfall on site. Reducing runoff in the Akatink watershed is critical given both its impaired status and the watershed's continued development pressure. As we face the climate crisis with stronger and more frequent storms. Our stormwater ordinance for bi-right development unfortunately do not provide the reductions in runoff from existing impervious surface that streams need to ensure they are healthier. However, through the rezoning process, we hope that stronger commitments result in the level of stormwater reduction that our streams need to be the beneficiaries of redevelopments just like this. This property also has significant

[04:58:24] mature tree canopy and ecologically sensitive areas worth preserving. We appreciate the comments in the tree cover and landscaping section of the staff report, highlighting the community's desire for preserving and enhancing these areas, and we appreciate the inclusion of plant language in the land use section regarding protection of tree canopy. We encourage the inclusion of additional plant language to avoid the use of invasive plants, such as those in the Virginia invasive plant species list provided by Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation.

[04:58:56] This guidance could be a tool in the toolbox to help turn off the proverbial spigot of invasive plants. And finally, we appreciate the Planning Commission's recommendation to both retain the proposed retail to ensure this redevelopment is mixed use and also include a solid residential floor area ratio far despite a small reduction in far from with the planning commission's recommendations we know that plan amendment language is only guidance the nitty-gritty details and commitments and ultimately outcomes are produced via the rezoning process but we

[04:59:35] support this plan amendment language and the strengthening of the plan's language regarding natural resources so that additional important ecological outcomes are realized thank you for your time this evening and your for your consideration of our comments and recommendations Thank you, Renee. Speaker number 20 is Ting Weymouth. I think we have another video to play.

[04:59:56] My name is Ting Weymouth. I live in Fairfax County, and I am the Northern Virginia organizer for the Chesapeake Climate Action Network Action Fund. I'm speaking today to express my strong support for the redevelopment of the AT&T Oakton site and to ask that you vote in favor of the related comprehensive plan amendment. On a personal note, I want to express that while I love living in northern Virginia for many reasons. The thing that I miss most about where I used to live up in New York and before that in Massachusetts is the walkability and transit

[05:00:34] access. I really miss the ability to walk, to pick up a few groceries from my house, or just to walk to a neighborhood coffee shop. And I'm honestly jealous of folks who live in those communities.

[05:00:49] And when my kids are out of school in about 14 years, so I have a little while, I hope to move to a denser, diverse, more walkable neighborhood like the one proposed in Oakton. And I hope to be able to afford to do so. I'm excited when I hear about projects like these because I think it's a great opportunity to revitalize areas of our county, to foster community, and to act on climate.

[05:01:15] As a climate advocate, I know that smart growth like this is good for people because it provides a mixture of housing, including affordable housing, enabling people to actually live here. And I know that it is good for the planet as well, which, of course, is also important for people because we all live here. And Mars really doesn't strike me as a viable or attractive alternative.

[05:01:43] In Fairfax County, we live in a brawled-out, car-centric area, and the county's plans in CCAP and Resilient Fairfax and elsewhere rightfully include smart growth principles such as increasing transit, supporting transportation demand management, and engaging in sustainable development.

[05:02:12] Communities like ours can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by building compactly, investing in transit and other transportation options to reduce vehicle miles traveled, and by putting stores and homes close to each other so that community members can access necessary services and resources like groceries. The comprehensive plan amendment and the redevelopment of the AT&T Oakton site will do all of those things and create a vibrant walkable community that, again, I'm feeling rather jealous of. The draft plan also calls for open space, an urban park,

[05:02:49] preserving trees, planting native plants, and enhancing stormwater management and green infrastructure, all of which will support the area's natural beauty, ecosystems, and climate resilience. According to the CCAP, in 2018, transportation accounted for 44% of Fairfax County's emissions.

[05:03:11] That's huge and presents such an opportunity for impact. Smart growth development projects like these are exactly what we need to be doing to bring that number down as well as to make it affordable for people to live here and to revitalize the area. Thank you for your consideration. Thank you very much. Speaker number 21 is Laura Pickford who submitted a video. My name is Laura Pickford and I'm a neighbor, a friend, a mother, and a doctor. What I'm not as a public speaker so forgive me while I read off some notes. I have lived in

[05:03:49] the Vienna area near Oakton High School for 26 years. I have seen the area change and I care deeply about what happens to it and the area next. I pass the old AT&T building every day on my way to work, and I think it is an amazing opportunity to create a gathering space for the Oakton community. I fully support Comprehensive Plan Amendment PA-2023-00009 to allow for mixed-use development on the AT&T site. I'm especially excited for the new retail that will serve the

[05:04:24] local community, such as a neighborhood-scale grocery store, coffee shops, restaurants, and daycare, all very desired options for the area. I'd like to see closer options than Reston, Tysons, and Mosaic for outdoor dining, restaurant patios, and social gathering. I strongly support the study and installation of a new traffic signal that allows parents and students to safely walk across Chain Bridge Road to the Oakton Elementary School, which has been an issue for years independent of this project. I also support the preservation of the trees along the perimeter of the site. This is an

[05:05:04] investment in the future of the area. I have been here for more than 20 years and I plan to be here for many more to enjoy it. This is smart sustainable growth. Thank you for listening. Thank you and before we move to our last three videos if there's anyone here wishing to testify on this matter who has not already testified or submitted a video please make sure you're signed in with the clerk to my far right. And with that, we will move to speaker number two, Dean Panny Yeats.

[05:05:33] I'm a 15-year resident of Fairfax County, having moved to Oakton in the last four years with the intent of raising my kids here. I'm excited for the prospect of having additional shops and businesses to frequent that will be within walking distance, as well as the addition of housing units to hopefully relieve some of the area's housing shortage. While I have no concerns regarding what is being planned on the AT&T site itself, I do have serious concerns about its impact on the surrounding neighborhood. If the development of this land is going to be truly successful, an actual win for the area. The Planning Commission as well as VDOT and FCDOT should do everything in their power to increase options for pedestrians and cyclists so that we

[05:06:11] can mitigate the effect of the increased traffic that will result from this redevelopment. The Oakton Suburban Center is already uninviting for pedestrians and cyclists alike. I know this because I have to live it every day. I live across from Oakton Elementary School and I cannot safely walk my son to school or to the playground. My son is required to take a bus to a school that I can see outside my window. As if that is not insane enough, the school has deemed the intersection so unsafe that it will not allow buses to cross the intersection for afternoon dismissal unless there is an officer directing traffic at the intersection. On the days when an officer does

[05:06:48] not come for afternoon dismissal, the buses are not allowed to cross Cambridge. Instead, the school buses are forced to make right turns, go south on Cambridge, turn left onto White Granite Drive, and then make U-turns to come all the way back again. If you think this is crazy, then you're right.

[05:07:04] The intersection is not safe enough for a school bus to cross. What should be a three-minute walk from school turns into a 15-minute bus ride. This is unacceptable. Adding a light at Blake and Chambridge is a crucial first step, but we cannot stop there. A successful plan for this area is a future where local residents will feel comfortable walking and biking from the AT&T site all the way up to Oakton Community Park.

[05:07:28] The plan should be that this corridor should be inviting to local residents who want to ditch their cars and walk and bike to their favorite businesses in the suburban center. I hope the committee will take into consideration my support for the rezoning, as well as heeding my call to act concurrently on the issue of improving pedestrian cyclist safety.

[05:07:50] One cannot happen without the other. Thank you. Thank you. Speaker number 23 is Jamie Saylor. Good evening, members of the Planning Commission and Board. My name is Jamie Saylor. I have lived in Vienna, Virginia for my entire life. Initially, as a child in the neighborhood down Hunter Mill Road, I've been up and down Hunter Mill Road to Oakton and in Oakton my entire life, starting from as soon as I could drive, going to Paul VI High School in Fairfax. So I've been up and down

[05:08:25] 123 as it crosses the AT&T site, and both of my boys went to Oakton Elementary, so many, many years in Oakton and in that area, and I just really wanted to take a moment to fully support, show my support for the Comprehensive Plan Amendment PA 2023-0009 that would allow mixed-use development of the AT&T site. For many years, even when it was probably being used, I thought it was

[05:09:01] not in use. And while it's not an eyesore to the community, it is certainly a piece of land that could serve the community in a much better way. And I think the plan for a mixed-use retail condo community would be fantastic. I can envision the feel of a little bit of the the town center or the mosaic district, but a little bit closer to home and hopefully even a little bit more accessible. Not to mention, I think that spot right there at 66 would be incredible

[05:09:36] for commuters who are trying to get in and out of DC who still need affordable housing. And I think that the mixed use of this property would provide a great opportunity for slightly lower income or lower earning families and individuals to live in Fairfax County without having to own a huge piece of property or talk about a huge amount of investment in a home, at least as a

[05:10:08] starter spot. So while my kids are graduated or out of high school and in college, I hope to be able to go up to this area sort of as a retiree soon and spend some time eating outside in the retail and restaurant space in the community. So I hope that you'll take my recommendation and my support for this amendment to heart and really pass this mixed-use amendment so that we

[05:10:41] can get some great new opportunities for residential and commercial buildings and development to better serve the community. That corridor there has kind of been a dead area for a while, and I'd love to see something done to revitalize it. Thank you. Thank you. And finally, speaker number 24 is Mustafa El-Nahas. My name is Mustafa El-Nahas, a car-free resident near

[05:11:16] West Falls Church Metro and a regular user of Fairfax Connector bus 461. I'm here to urge your support for the AT&T Oaksin Redevelopment Plan amendment while also sharing some concerns about the Planning Commission's decision to lower the project's density. First I applaud the Planning Commission for incorporating critical community priorities into this plan, safer roads, expanded parks and proactive infrastructure investments, the commitment to a comprehensive traffic study enlarged linear park and pedestrian safety upgrades like safer crossings and stormwater improvements

[05:11:52] are exactly the kind of forward-thinking steps Oakton need to correct decades of car-centric planning. These changes will save lives, connect neighborhoods, and create a healthier and more sustainable community. However, I'm deeply disappointed by the reduction in density from 1.0 FAR to 0.88. While I understand the desire to compromise, lowering housing capacity undermines our county's urgent need for affordability and transit-oriented growth.

[05:12:22] Even with a 12% reduction, this project still promises over 750 homes, including 18% affordable and workforce units, which is commendable. But in a region where housing costs push families out daily, every unit matters. Density isn't just about numbers, it's about ensuring, for example, WMATA prioritizes it often for a future metro station or other competing areas. It's about reducing sprawl and climate impacts. I urge the board to monitor housing

[05:12:56] needs closely and consider restoring density in future phases. That said, this plan remains transformative. It replaces underused office parks with walkable mixed-use community tied to trails and transit. It adds retail and green space, addressing Oakton's food deserts, while preserving trees. Critically, it shifts planning power from a vocal field to the broader community, renders, renters young families and those who've been sidelined by exclusionary policies of the past.

[05:13:29] Let's be clear, perfection cannot stall progress. With the lowered FAR as a setback, the benefits, safer streets, parks and 750+ homes far outweigh the compromises. I implore you to to adopt this plan and ensure infrastructure improvements are built concurrently with development, not after. Let this be the first step in a larger Oakton evolution, one that prioritizes people over cars and equity over inertia. Thank you for your service and for seizing this chance to build a more inclusive, resilient Fairfax County.

[05:14:07] Thank you. And that's the end of our video testimony. I do have two additional speakers who have signed up to testify, and they will be speakers number 25 and number 26. 25 is Rachel Rice. You are here to be followed by 26, Jing Zhang, and that will be speaker number 26. Welcome.

[05:14:35] Thank you. Hello, good evening. My name is Rachel Rice, and I've lived in the Vienna area for almost 30 years. When I was a child after school in Vienna, we almost always went to the Oakton Giant on the way home from school. Driving from Vienna was manageable, but God forbid my father said we had to go to the Oakton post office on the other side of this proposed site, a more common occurrence, of course, a few years ago. Through Oakton and back always felt like forever to me as a child. Now I live in Reston and I commute to Alexandria in the evening. In the evenings, it

[05:15:11] takes 10 to 15 minutes to get off 66 and arrive at the Oakton Giant, a grand total of one mile and five stoplights. Going south towards 66 is typically quicker at most times of the day, but would require a left turn of some sort into the applicant site. Development is clearly needed, but it should show a density and vision that is congruent and harmonious with the current neighborhood and community. The neighbors have clearly shown up to say this evening that they

[05:15:47] want responsible development. There's no debate really over that. This is not a not-in-my-backyard issue. This isn't appropriate to the area issue. And I would urge you all to consider some of the suggestions here this evening regarding traffic and safety. Thank you.

[05:16:04] Thank you very much. Speaker number 26, Jing Zhang. Welcome. Hello. Hi. I'm a homeowner and I have been an architect, urban designer, and a planner for many years of international practice experience.

[05:16:29] I support the idea of a mixed-use, higher-density development here. But I have two suggestions. One is to the open space. One is to the transportation system. For the open space, I suggest a built park and a plaza.

[05:16:54] The build path, we can make use of the existing big tree area. They are valuable, I think, for the development itself and very valuable for the nature, very valuable for the neighborhood.

[05:17:13] So we can make use of that. I think it's not the FAR matters, it's the building coverage. If they are, 1.0 is not a problem. But the building coverage, we should control that.

[05:17:30] So make use of the existing tree area is a good way to make use of what we have and create a good public space. And the plaza, right now the scheme is adjacent to a townhouse.

[05:17:51] I think it's better to be adjacent to a commercial building instead of a townhouse. The second suggestion is the transportation system. I think a good layout of the street grade to create smaller blocks, make the neighborhood more workable, bikeable, and even introduce a transit system.

[05:18:25] It will offset lots of pressure to the transportation, to the road around it. And it's hard to really depend on the government to work on that.

[05:18:41] It's not this development can solve the problem. Okay, that's two points. Thank you. Thank you very much. All right, that completes my speakers that I had listed ahead of time and were added.

[05:18:56] Let me verify that there's no one else in the auditorium who hasn't already spoken, who would like to. This is a public hearing. Is there anyone else who would like to testify? Seeing no one else, let me ask if we have any additional callers. We do. We have one caller, Rob Whitfield, speaking as an individual.

[05:19:12] Okay. Can you open the door? Welcome, Rob. Thank you. I'm just wheeling out of my nursing home. I'm Rob Whitfield, the FedFact and Taxpayers Alliance, and I actually studied this AT&T property when it was being built 40 years ago.

[05:19:32] So I'm familiar with the property. I think this is a big economic opportunity, but the prevailing problem is the traffic situation caused by people passing through Oakton, many of them going to Hunter Mill Road, the rest going to Vienna.

[05:19:49] And so one of the things that could be done, it's now almost 20 years since they first considered widening the Fairfax County Parkway north of Route 50. And so I don't know what the status of the county's strategic plan update is, but it's time to get going to widen between Route 50 and the Dulles Toll Road.

[05:20:16] That would therefore relieve some of the traffic pressure demand from people going on Hunter Mill Road up to Reston. So as far as the property itself, I had suggested to the Planning Commission that a couple of hundred units be reserved for seniors for whom the parking demand is much less than for the regular public.

[05:20:42] And so it could be possible that a bonus density be given if you create a certain proportion of senior units. So much more study is needed on the traffic situation there in Oakton, And I hope that we can expect to see the transportation demand six-year plan sometime in the next three months and include study of this open situation.

[05:21:11] So, sorry if I'm in a rush, but I was literally on the way out of the door. So, thank you for the opportunity to speak. And to Supervisor Alcorn, I think he's aware of my interest in creating senior units. So, thank you all.

[05:21:28] Thank you very much. And let me, at this time, ask staff for closing comments and a recommendation. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. The Planning Commission held its public hearing on February 26th and took action on March 12th, recommending the adoption of this plan amendment with the Planning Commission handout included in your materials.

[05:21:52] Planning Commission changes are shown in the blue highlight and include a greater focus on improving the safety of the transportation network, including pedestrians and bicycles, A greater flexibility in implementing the transportation recommendations, including their timing with the proposed development.

[05:22:08] New area-wide guidance for stormwater management in the suburban center beyond adopted policy. A reduction of the AT&T campus's intensity recommendation from a 1.0 to a 0.88 FAR. Specific references to universal design and affordable housing. Further language supporting compatibility with the area and Oakton's character.

[05:22:28] Expanded tree preservation language, specifically mentioning the oak trees and the Germantown and Cambridge Road frontages. and additional language to support parks and open space to include connectivity and a potential expansion of Board Street Park. In addition, the Planning Commission passed a follow-on motion asking the Board to authorize a safety and congestion study for the Oakton area.

[05:22:47] Again, staff is happy to answer any questions. Thank you, sir. Thank you very much. At this time, questions from Board Member Supervisor Powchig. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. All my thanks to you soon, but a couple questions, Ryan. Number one, because it's come up quite a bit today, and clearly we're just at the ComPlan level.

[05:23:05] Can you just describe to us how you, the staff, made your original recommendations for both the FAR for this area as well as for the retail space? And these are knowing caps, right?

[05:23:21] So we really looked at the original nomination language as it came through that the board authorized us to study. So we looked at the 1.0 FAR as a starting point. And we said, you know, is this, you know, the question we asked ourselves essentially is under what circumstances would a 1.0 be feasible if indeed it were feasible?

[05:23:41] And so after our, we did an extensive land use analysis, we looked at the transportation of the area through our comprehensive transportation study. We looked at what the demand on existing public services would be, whether it was, you know, fire stations, parks, schools, so on and so forth.

[05:23:59] And so the recommendation language is really designed to mitigate a lot of the issues that we saw with a 1.0 development, whether that is in site design, that's where building heights are located so that they're able to be visually mitigated from the surrounding community.

[05:24:17] It's the types of architecture that might be required to incorporate the development into the fabric of the open community. And so it was really a combination of those many factors that we've mentioned in the staff report. On the retail space for 120,000 square feet, that recommendation came from the transportation study.

[05:24:38] And we recognized that, yes, retail is the major driver of transportation. However, we also felt it important to focus not only on the additional number of trips that the project would be generating, but also the potential solutions of mitigating those trips. And so the two work together.

[05:24:55] If you could go back to the map I think you had that showed this area, and FAR can be very confusing because it's not specific. Could you show us those surrounding areas again? And some of that are listed because they're newer, but I think some of the existing adjacent communities, I believe you had both FAR and dwelling units per acre, which may be a little bit easier to follow in this language.

[05:25:21] It is very confusing because, you know, FAR, as you know, is a measurement of floor area across the site. Typically, when we do strictly residential development, we use a dwelling units per acre, which does not specify how large those dwelling units are.

[05:25:38] So there's not really an easy, you know, apples to apples way of comparing FAR and dwelling units. And what we've seen, you know, historically is that dwelling units have gotten larger. So what may have been, you know, a, say, a .4 FAR, you know, back 20, 30 years ago, is now a much larger FAR, around 1.0 or so, because you've got a typical townhome size was 1,300 square feet 30 years ago, and today it's about 2,300, I think, is what the county average is.

[05:26:09] And you can kind of see that that bears out in the recent rezonings that were approved. You can see kind of the townhome sizes, you know, number of units and what that equates to as a rough FAR. But, you know, again, a lot of this really comes down to not only the FAR number itself, but how that size of that building, how the mass of that building, how the perception of that development in the community is mitigated through whether that's, you know, screening, buffering, site design, architecture, things of that nature.

[05:26:38] Thank you. And one additional question. I know one of the recommendations brought up by, I believe it was the Options for Oakton Group, was about looking at local park space versus urban park space. If you could clarify that for us. Sure. So this site is within a suburban center, one of our activity centers, and per our existing policies, it would be governed under the Urban Parks Framework, which, as you all know, is a framework that looks at our more densely populated areas and our mixed-use centers.

[05:27:10] And so, well, we agree, you know, Boer Street Park is a local suburban park outside of the suburban center. It would be analyzed under different metrics as such. But the urban parks framework would apply here in the suburban center. We felt that that was the most appropriate way in this particular development style to approach urban parks.

[05:27:32] And we really see when it comes to rezoning, we'll be looking closely not only at the park acreage, but how the parks are amenitized, utilized, programmed, and how they interact with Boer Street Park and other recreational connections and trails outside of the area.

[05:27:49] Thank you. One final question, I'll see if my colleagues have any, is, and I know in your write-up there have been various versions. Blue is the latest, latest updates. I believe, I don't have a page number, but looking at, you know, we heard about transit and, you know, access to transit, can you just quickly tell us a little bit what is included in that additional language that was added for transportation demand management and other ways to try to mitigate the use of just single-use vehicles?

[05:28:24] I'll refer that question to my colleague, Bob Cora, with FCDOT. There he is. Thanks, Bob. Hi, this is Mike Garcia. Sorry, I'm not Bob, with Fairfax County Department of Transportation. So we kind of augmented the language a little bit between when staff put it out and when the PC gave their final recommendation, just to make sure that we zeroed in on kind of the actual demand of where it was occurring.

[05:28:48] So not only weekday, which is where we normally look at it, but also weekend as well. And the other key component was that we wanted to look at how we could increase the use of transit through whatever mechanisms and programs are available through a TDM program, but also really how we improve that last mile walkability in terms of additional modes of travel that aren't vehicular based so whether it's transit micro transit such as scooters or any sort of shared shared mobility devices or biking or walking so that's really where the enhanced language comes for for TDM and I know we recently got a report just how successful those programs have been in

[05:29:26] our urban centers I will pause there thank you very much other questions from board members yes supervisor Alcorn thank you just very quickly is staff okay with the Planning Commission recommended language yes sir we can go okay thank you excellent and let me ask a question because the transportation study has been referenced a number of times and I know as a part of the Planning Commission's recommendation do we know if a transportation analysis of this corridor has been done certainly not a comprehensive one but has there been one

[05:30:02] done before and what are we thinking as the timeline for doing one along this corridor hi I'm Mike Garcia again we have not done a comprehensive analysis which is what the PC kind of put into their following motion for the board to consider we looked at the transportation study for AT&T and kind of two components one is we looked at the immediate impacts of the proposal more akin to what is the plan change that area and how can we um see what improvements could be put into the plan and then we there was a kind of a further out reaching effect of the transportation study

[05:30:42] that looked all the way up hunter mill and chamber and chambers road that from the plan perspective maybe is not as impactful but still impactful to the community so recognizing that we were talking with supervisor paulchick and her staff and the planning commission and asking for ways that we could kind of consider an additional analysis and that's what the planning commission has put forth okay and and we have the capability to do that as a as an additional step yes okay um and i ask that question because we we've run into this a lot where you have a collection of older communities

[05:31:17] and some sprinkled in new development that maybe is not seen as comprehensively evaluated or cohesive And so in this particular instance, if we're looking at the major thoroughfares that have been referenced by some of the speakers, we're comfortable that the language associated with this plan amendment, knowing that there's ultimately a rezoning application that comes along, that this applicant is prepared to address some of the elements of what a transportation plan would recommend.

[05:31:50] That is their responsibility, recognizing that this is a corridor-wide question that spans beyond this particular development. But we're comfortable that this particular development has addressed the realm of transportation recommendations that could likely come from a larger analysis of this corridor, recognizing that's not alone their responsibility.

[05:32:11] Is that fair to say? Yes, that's fair to say. Okay. Additional questions from board members. Seeing and hearing none, at this time, I'm going to close the public hearing and recognize Supervisor Palchuk for a motion. Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman.

[05:32:29] And first of all, I do have some comments. We've spent over two and a half years on this with the community. The biggest thank you I could possibly imagine to our team, especially to Ryan and Graham for their work on this. It was my first time going through one of these processes.

[05:32:46] I think many of us in the community, to the transportation team, to Bob and Mike and Mark and Jeff Herman and others, and to all the staff. I know you've spent many, many hours on this. There's never a perfect process. I think we've learned a lot through this.

[05:33:02] I appreciate the community's feedback on how we improve this, not just on this application as we go to the next step of the rezoning, but as we look at other applications that come in in the area. I also, huge thanks to Commissioner Hancock. I think this was his first big project, and I think he did an excellent job meeting with the community and doing his best to help address the issues.

[05:33:28] I also want to thank the history. Thank you, Ms. Byrne. This book has a picture of the original site as it was built. This book goes all the way back to when it was dirt roads over in Oakton. But it was, and I know Rachel's a big fan of this, and both of you, there used to be horses here.

[05:33:48] And so we know change has continued to happen in the community, this being one of them. I grew up going to the Multiplex Theater, which before that I believe was a drive-in theater and other things before that. So we've seen a lot of changes. As we've heard, the process is always a need for improvement, but I very much appreciate in this community, greater Oakton Community Association and all of the other associations that have done their best to help us and the community reach those voices of thousands of thousands of residents within the immediate adjacent area and beyond communities that have been there for a few years and those who have been

[05:34:28] here for many many decades I know there's always frustration that more can be done and I know that we are committed to continuing to sit down with you and try to address the concerns and bring in the voices. I will say that this, I will have the motion. I also do have a specific follow-on motion for the transportation study. This amendment represents an update to the comprehensive plan for the Flint Hill Suburban Center in the Providence District. The proposed updates would create a new core area for the Suburban Center and Land Unit B and facilitate a residential mixed-use development pattern on the AT&T office campus,

[05:35:08] consisting of multifamily and townhome residences, community-serving retail, public amenities, and recreational open spaces. And we will continue to work on those open spaces with the developers as well, as well as multimodal transportation improvements.

[05:35:24] Other editorial revisions were made, and we very much appreciate all the work that's gone into them, to the Suburban Center and the area-wide guidance for clarity and to update the text to reflect the plan's implementation. The proposed changes have been informed by staff's analysis, as we have heard today.

[05:35:43] Third-party studies on transportation conditions, heritage resources surveys, noise and other topics, and a nearly two-year-long, perhaps longer, engagement effort involving local residents, community associations, and stakeholder groups, as well as the Planning Commission's public hearing on February 26th and their resulting recommendation on March 12th, which was unanimous.

[05:36:06] This plan amendment is being processed concurrently with rezoning application RZ 2023-PR-00020, which has brought some confusion, if not much, to this process. Should this motion pass, we and the Planning Commission will be working with the community, with the rezoning staff, and the developer to review and address the specific issues raised.

[05:36:29] These include but are not limited, as we heard, to years of traffic congestion on 123. Due to a lack of a grid of streets, the appropriate scale and scope of the non-residential uses, we will also be looking at pedestrian and bike safety, improved traffic mitigation options, community character, and the open space.

[05:36:49] And I was out there recently with FCDOT staff looking at some specific intersections, so a lot of work to follow. During this process, we heard quite a bit of feedback, and some additional language was included in this final phase. A lot of it was mentioned, but I do want to add a little bit more.

[05:37:06] that came even in the final edits, thanks to a lot of community feedback and especially the options for Oakton feedback as well. It does include that this is a center for the Oakton community. An attractive, unifying character should be expressed throughout the site that creates a sense of place and invites people to gather.

[05:37:29] It should provide safe and comfortable pedestrian and bicycle connections and facilities as a higher priority for the suburban center and surrounding communities. It should prioritize preservation and planting of oak trees reflective of Oakden's name and history.

[05:37:44] It has removed the one recommended and very controversial intersection as we continue to study the area for 123 and Germantown to allow for additional solutions to the transportation network to allow for traffic flow and pedestrian safety, prioritizing people.

[05:38:06] The development should incorporate higher intensities in the western portion, is another language that was included, to taper away from Cambridge Road. And you've heard today there are differing views on some of this, so we'll continue to have those conversations in the rezoning. Last but not least, and this I know we will continue to work on and look for creative solutions, and the most beautiful outcome is the common green.

[05:38:30] It does state now that it should be connected to Borg Street Park via a linear park that expands the open space network in the area and should be sufficient width to provide a variety of active and passive recreation facilities. Expansion and improvements of the existing Borg Street Park should also be considered.

[05:38:49] So that is the comprehensive plan language, and I know we have our commitments from the developers to continue to work to make that an improvement for the community. While a majority of the voice concerns have been addressed, we do know that others continue to be out there and need to be addressed.

[05:39:09] These include, but aren't limited to, the transportation, the safety, the non-residential uses in that appropriate mix, the open space, and just ensuring that this continues to be a vibrant use for the community.

[05:39:24] It's existing as well as its future residents. I, therefore, will make one motion, and should that pass, I will make one follow-on motion to recommend a congestion and safety study and funding. I move that the Board of Supervisors adopt Plan Amendment SSPA 2023-II-1F, it's been a long day, per the Planning Commission's recommendation dated March 12, 2025.

[05:39:55] You've heard the motion and a second by Supervisor Lusk. Discussion on the motion. let me let me just make a couple comments very very briefly because I know it's been a long evening but I do want to thank both the staff who worked on this the applicant but most importantly all the organizations and individuals who testified here this evening and keeping it cordial focused on solutions and trying to all come up with what they think is best for the community and I

[05:40:27] I completely respect that, and I think what the Planning Commission did was reflective of trying to move those interests together as best as we can. I think it's very clear when you look at this site that if this was coming through today, it would have never been developed the way it was before.

[05:40:43] And that's just the evolution of Fairfax County, and we have learned a lot since that development occurred. Mostly, we have learned that we cannot continue to rely on developments that require 100% of the people coming and going to use their cars. I mean, there's just no way our system can continue to support that.

[05:41:03] And so, you know, this is a challenging case, but I think it is a rare opportunity where we can take a large piece of property and try to look at it holistically and try to address the fact that this is a corridor. And to answer one of the speaker's questions who came earlier, say, Corridor, I regularly drive.

[05:41:22] I think every member of this board has been on this corridor and recognized that the way it has developed over time has created a less than ideal situation for bikes, for bike travel, for pedestrian travel, and clearly for vehicular travel. And we have to be thinking differently.

[05:41:40] And I think this application goes a long way in doing that, even though it does not address all the issues that come forward. And lastly, because we've heard this before about concurrent processing, and I'd be the first to acknowledge that there's pros and cons of that, I would just say that we have in Fairfax County comprehensive plan language that's written that is perspective looking at future developments that occur, and in some cases is decades old, and that development hasn't occurred.

[05:42:09] And it is so out of touch with what we're trying to do today. So one of the benefits of concurrent processing is we can take elements of the comprehensive of plan and ensure that the rezoning application that is running concurrent with it matches the vision that's in the plan. And we don't get that opportunity very often, and there's an opportunity in doing that. I acknowledge that it also presents some timing challenges, and so I'm looking forward to the follow-on motion on transportation just to make sure, as I mentioned the question earlier, that as we're moving forward potentially with this development, we have what we need to be able to

[05:42:45] implement some of the transportation improvements that need to be made along this corridor that are not the sole responsibility of this applicant but are things that are going to have to be to be longer term and so I just will close by saying thank you for all the input because we heard some really good ideas tonight and and that's that that's meaningful to this board member and I think to the entire board here who who listened to the testimony is there any further discussion seeing and yeah supervisor Lask thank you mr. chairman I'll just make a couple of quick comments the first is thinking back to when I worked in Jerry

[05:43:22] Conway's office many many years ago this being a vibrant commercial center this being a office park with a lot of activity and a lot of energy and to look at the change that's come as a result of the change in the commercial office market and really this idea that we can't do things as we've done them before so I appreciate that this is an opportunity for us to reimagine what was there before and to address some of the issues that we recognize are in our community today so there were a couple speakers who talked about the need for

[05:44:00] affordable housing and workforce housing and housing in general and as a person who has two daughters, one that graduated from college just a year and a half ago and took a job working as a teacher in Fairfax County, she can't afford to have her own apartment. So she lives in my basement, and I'm delighted that I can provide her that opportunity. But it would be so hurtful for me and just so difficult if she were to tell me, Dad, I'm going to stay where I went to school, which was down in the southern part of the commonwealth so i'm so happy that you know she

[05:44:37] had that opportunity but we need to make sure that others others have the opportunity and we're making some significant investments in our public schools and we want those kids to be able to come back and live in this community we want others who are providing services to our residents to also be in the litmus community so i just want to lift up the importance of that and say that I'm supportive of this proposal, and just acknowledge also that I think I heard there were 60-plus meetings that were coordinated, so I'm looking at Evan Goldman.

[05:45:13] I've worked with him before, so I know the approach that he's taken in my district in Franconia, and I'm not surprised. But just, again, thank you for the opportunity to make those comments. Thank you very much. With that, all those in favor of the motion, please say aye.

[05:45:30] Aye. Any opposed? any abstentions. And that motion carries, and I know we have an important follow-up motion. Supervisor Palczyk. Before I read that, I just have to read this one line from this caption for the photo of the building. By using the closed-circuit television studio and regional network, business executives can have face-to-face electronic conferences and save travel money.

[05:45:57] things have clearly changed a little bit since this was built as a very futuristic, innovative solution. And we know that it really is time to think about how we build community and how our communities access that, and especially the housing.

[05:46:16] And I just wanted to add, I know you're very focused on economic development. And as we know, our 30- to 50-year-old community can no longer afford to live in this area, and that halts our entire economy. So we have personal stories, but we also know it is not the best thing for Fairbanks to continue to be competitive.

[05:46:37] So finally, my follow-up motion for Oakton congestion and safety study. During the AT&T-Oakton site-specific plan amendment process, numerous public comments described safety and congestion problems with the existing transportation network and concern for how these problems might worsen with future network demand.

[05:46:58] These comments were also echoed during the Planning Commission public hearing. Areas of interest included intersections along Chambridge Road, such as Hunter Mill Road, Miller Road, Blake Lane, as well as areas west of Chambridge Road. Challenges included closely spaced intersections, closely spaced intersections which limits the ability to manage intersection delays and queues, a disconnected transportation network, need for traffic management, and a network that can better support pedestrian, bicycle, and transit users. On March 12, 2025, the Planning Commission

[05:47:34] recommended to the Board of Supervisors that a transportation study of the Oakton area be undertaken by staff. Therefore, Mr. Chairman, I recommend that the Board of Supervisors direct FCDOT to conduct an Oakton congestion and safety study spanning approximately one mile from the intersection of Chambridge Road and Germantown Road, staying north of I-66.

[05:47:59] The study should consider enhanced, modified, and or new connections to Chambridge Road from the Oakton neighborhoods, as well as evaluate the connectivity and quality of the pedestrian and bicycle network. The study should recommend near-term and long-term improvements, along with potential private and public funding options that the county can pursue.

[05:48:21] In addition, the county executive should include $425,000 as a consideration item in the next quarterly budget review to fund the transportation analysis associated with the transportation study.

[05:48:39] And I have discussed that with the county executive and the staff. It has come from them, so I don't know if there's additional feedback from staff on that. You've heard the motion and second by Supervisor Lusk. Is there any further discussion? Seeing and hearing none, all those in favor of the motion, please say aye.

[05:48:58] Aye. Any opposed? Any abstentions? That motion carries. And that brings us to thank you all very much, and thank you for your patience and contributions. I know we have one more item to go here today, which is public comment, and we do have 10 speakers signed up for that.

[05:49:16] And so before we begin public comment, I am going to remind folks about what the rules are associated with public comment and that is that the board will hear public comment on any issue except issues under litigation, issues that have been scheduled for public hearing before the board, and personnel matters and/or comments regarding specific individuals.

[05:49:42] Speakers must register in advance and each speaker is given three minutes for their remarks. A maximum of ten speakers may address the board during any public comment period and And speakers may address the board once during a six-month period. Disruptive behavior will not be tolerated. If a disruption occurs, I will call for a recess.

[05:49:59] The board will exit and request security address the disruption that's occurring before resuming the meeting. I am now going to call our public speaking folks. Let's carry all conversations out of the auditorium. This is a board meeting that we're conducting here.

[05:50:16] And I am going to call our first speaker for public comment, and that is Yasmin Shafiq. Is she here? She is here. Followed by Trish Doherty and Haley Gannon, in that order. Welcome. Hello.

[05:50:32] Good evening. Good afternoon, evening, Chairman McKay and the board, county leadership and staff. My name is Yasmin. I'm a county employee and a member of SEIU. And when I started at the county in 2021, I heard about collective bargaining here and there, the law changing, the ordinance passing, and it occurred to me that having grown up in Virginia, I knew very little about unions.

[05:51:03] Virginia, fun fact, is the 48th state to allow public servants to unionize. we're behind. So I took it upon myself to learn, and what I learned is that labor unions are the sign of a healthy workforce, kind of like how free press is the sign of a healthy democracy.

[05:51:26] You got to hear from the people. Employers need workers, workers need employment, and that relationship is a contract. Employers have things like HR and lawyers to iron out their end of the bargain and employees need unions to do the same. I want to take a moment to thank the Board of Supervisors because our ordinance gives us the ability to bargain in a way that's united and that's powerful. I look forward to sitting together at the bargaining table because a good contract

[05:52:03] will mean better service for the county overall. We have the opportunity to set the bar for excellent public servitude and that motivates me and I hope that it motivates you too. To be clear, there are challenges, but we don't stop progress because we don't have perfection. As long as we're here on earth, for example, we don't get perfect. We're subject to gravity, the weather, politics, and yet we move forward. There is currently an all-out assault happening on federal workers now that affects the whole country, but in particular Fairfax County, and I know that's been the subject

[05:52:42] of meetings very recently here. That's a ringing bell example of why it's both important and urgent for county employees to unionize now. We also have funding challenges.

[05:52:59] We don't want county residents pushed out of their homes with more real estate tax. We get that the county needs revenue through the meals tax, which every other locality around us has so that you can meet us at the bargaining table in a meaningful way.

[05:53:18] We work together. We move forward together. We can't let employees here, we can't let division and confusion get the best of us. We can't afford it. especially not now one united bargaining unit is a an opportunity to win together ballots go out in april voting yes to seiu is the way forward let's get this done together thank you for your time thank you very much speaker number two is trish doherty to be followed by hayley gannon sammy

[05:53:53] tamini tamimi if i called your name please be ready to testify welcome hello israel slaughtered over 400 Palestinian people last night.

[05:54:13] Israel continues to reject the ceasefire. So I'm here again, and we have been at every single meeting for a year. Why are you all still silent on divestment from this genocidal apartheid state?

[05:54:33] Your silence is loud, but our voices are louder. So here's a recap. I don't know what it's supposed to be. Is it working now?

[05:54:55] Okay. Fire in Gaza is the first step to ending this war. I know my colleagues are going to talk about the connections between Fairfax County and support of the military-industrial complex.

[05:55:12] I met with Palestinian students who shared stories of terrifying and horrific bombing and displacement. 75 years of the displacement and destruction of the Palestinian people. My principles tell me that all human life is of equal value, with no exceptions. About 9,500 Palestinian prisoners languid from Israeli prisoners.

[05:55:32] Israel has committed far too many atrocities against the people of Palestine. To mention in my three minutes, Israel is carrying out a genocidal operation in Gaza. Others are having C-section with no anesthetic. The ongoing indiscriminate attacks against Gaza constitute human rights violations.

[05:55:49] Several others of my elderly relatives died because of Israel's severe restrictions on medicine. As a Virginia-Israel advisory board promotes Israeli military contractors here in Virginia, such as the Israeli aerospace industries in Herndon. This month, the FCEDA was promoting partnerships with Israel and Israeli tech companies, which are facilitating the ongoing genocide.

[05:56:12] Currently, more than 40 Israeli companies have offices in Fairfax County. Thousands are buried under the rubble. Many are Indian families who have loved ones in Israeli prisons, where they are often held without charges and where they are tortured. If the civilian men, women, and thousands of infants slaughtered in Palestine with our tax dollars, Even if we survive the onslaught, our futures, our hopes, and our communities now lie in ruin lingers all around us.

[05:56:38] It is unacceptable that we have billions for war, but a budget shortfall when it comes to helping our most marginalized and vulnerable populations. Board of Supervisors, we are your people. As an elected official, I should lend the support of my conscience to a public action.

[05:56:54] We do not have the budget for genocidal holy wars. Our funding via Fairfax County is complicit in genocide. Fairfax County can divest from companies that serve Israeli grotesque violence, genocide, ethnic cleansing, and apartheid in Gaza and the West Bank.

[05:57:10] To our children, and now I'm lucky to have grandchildren, just two months ago, two weeks ago, let's do it fair, please. Thank you. So we ask that the board to stop using our tax dollars to appropriate funds to FCEDA when it comes to programs or projects in partnership with Virginia-Israel Advisory Board. Thank you.

[05:57:37] Thank you. Thank you very much. Speaker number three is Haley Gannon. Is Haley Gannon here? Haley Gannon. How about speaker number four, Sammy Tamimi? Sammy Tamimi? Gia Antony? Gia Antony? Okay. Be careful. Be careful. Take your time coming down.

[05:58:03] How about Harish Mehta and Michael Waro, Lisa Dejo? Okay, if I called your name, please, please make sure you're down here close. We don't want anyone to get hurt here trying to get down.

[05:58:20] Welcome. The floor is yours. Thank you. Good afternoon, Chairman McKay and the board. My name is Shia Toney, and I come before you today as a concerned citizen urging you to reconsider the decision on cutting all 16 high schools crossing guards.

[05:58:37] I understand that the budget constraints are logistical challenges that must be addressed. We cannot afford to make choices that put safety at risk. When safety measures are removed or reduced, the consequences are real. Without the right protections in place, we are increasing the chances of an accident, injuries, or worse.

[05:58:58] These decisions don't just affect statistics. They impact real people, children, families, and everyone who moves through our streets each day. protection are taken away, it is incredibly difficult to undo the damage that follows. The importance of crossing guards cannot be overstated. There has been tragic incidents where children have been hit by cars while crossing the street. These incidents have occurred in neighborhoods, areas like Oakton and PG County, and they serve as a stark reminder of what can happen when proper precautions are not taken. Crossing guards are simple,

[05:59:33] but crucial layers of the protection that help prevent such tragedies. I am also dually concerned about the timeline of these cuts. With these crossing guards positions set to be eliminated in June of 2025 and the new school year beginning in August, that leaves only a few short months to develop and implement often alternative safety plans. As of now, there is no clear plan in place to ensure safety crossings with thousands of students returning to school. Rushing into this decision without a solid strategy risk, leaving a dangerous gap in protection, putting children

[06:00:10] and families in harm's way. Safety should not be a matter of compromise. We need to ask ourselves, is this truly a responsible choice? Have we fully considered the risk and long-term consequences? There's also a way to find solutions not to put people live on the line. I urge you to pause, take a closer look, and ensure one comprehensive safety plan is in place before moving forward with these cuts. Let's prioritize safety, not just today, but for the future of our community.

[06:00:42] I'm just wondering, have any of you gone out and witnessed to see the proposed 16 high school cuts being cut and to see their challenges? And now, especially with all of the federal government and everybody going back to work, how much more the volume of traffic has gone up in these difficult high school areas? Thank you. I appreciate your time.

[06:01:04] Thank you very much. And just to be clear, no decision on this has been made yet. So there's not a decision to reconsider. There's a recommendation in the county executive's budget, and that will be part of our budget process. So we will make sure your testimony is also included in our budget deliberations.

[06:01:20] I appreciate that, sir. Thank you. But I'd also like for all of you to go through and just see through some of these high schools. I go through one every day. Thank you. Thank you very much. Appreciate your testimony. Thank you. Let me ask again. Haley Gannon, Sammy Tamimi, Haresh Mehta, Michael Waro. Michael, if you can come on down. Welcome. Lisa Dejo. Okay. Mr. Waro, welcome.

[06:01:53] Thank you for your time. I was driving in the McLean area, and there's one intersection that's just intolerable, you're familiar with, that you voted for improvement on it, the Balls Hill Road, Old Dominion Drive.

[06:02:11] The trouble with that improvement is the solution that's offered is very expensive and very long term, to the tune of $20 million in four years for completion.

[06:02:28] It need not be. What was done here is they've picked a solution that does not fit the footprint of the intersection. Consequently, all the pavement has to be torn out, all the utility is relocated, and it's just a mess.

[06:02:46] So the way to solve that with every engineering solution, I'm an engineer, by the way, but out of state license. So this is just a concerned citizen, not a professional opinion. And nevertheless, the major determinant is to pick something that matches the footprint of the intersection.

[06:03:07] There's a new roundabout type. I say new, it's been around for 10 years. Carmel, Indiana has 10 of them. Around the country, Prince George County in Virginia has one. about to be completed right now. You can look at the video of it online. I presented this information to Fairfax County DOT. They basically ignored me, said it was too late. It wasn't too late. There's $15 million yet to spend. There's $3.1 million recoverable. You've got the finances yet to do

[06:03:43] with the right way. The right way is get a solution that fits the intersection. You can configure this new type roundabout to match almost anything. You can match the existing pavement. You don't have to tear out the pavement. You need to supplement it. You need to add it so that it conforms with the roundabout guidelines, which you can do. Mini roundabout, regular roundabout, even two-lane can be configured to this intersection. Why is it so great? Every skewed intersection is

[06:04:20] adaptable to this technology. The National Research, Highway Research, their latest version has this and mentions it specifically for skewed intersections. I don't know where Fairfax County DOT was, and I don't know who did the Prince County roundabout, but they did it right for $5 million. They even had to take into account higher speed approaches that engineers like to slow down by horizontal deflection.

[06:04:56] So you can do that with added costs, which wouldn't be needed here because you've got a slower approach speed. So my question is, will you tell Fairfax County DOT to examine this seriously?

[06:05:16] Thank you very much. Thank you for your testimony. And you've got the handout there. We do. Thank you for providing it. I've got a ton of other information. I've got a three-and-a-half-inch notebook that I've worked on this. So feel free to contact me.

[06:05:31] Thank you very much. I appreciate that. Lisa Dejo, are you here? Is that you? Okay. Come on down. Hello.

[06:05:48] I'm Lisa Dejo. I have worked for the middle school after school program since 2007, and I am a Fairfax County resident and mother of four FCPS students. Thank you for the opportunity to speak. The county and school partnership that birthed the middle school after school program at VIP summer camp nearly two decades ago did so out of a growing concern about substance abuse and gangs. Since then, there has been a steady decrease in substance abuse, bullying, weapon possession, gang involvement, and juvenile crime in general. The biggest evidence was the immediate and sharp

[06:06:25] decline in gang involvement in the years of the program that has continued to drop. Three out of four FCPS students over the last 20 years have benefited from these programs. That's hundreds of thousands of youth. We have continued to invest in these programs for a reason. They're working.

[06:06:45] The program data shows this, county data supports this, and our youth are speaking out and pleading with you to continue to support these programs. Not because it's a luxury, but because it's effective at keeping them safe, connected, and active.

[06:07:01] The county-school partnership is the reason behind the success. It's genius. The schools have the students. They have the transportation. They have the buildings. And the county has the prevention resources and the commitment to the community. Supervisor Pelchek mentioned this morning that in regards to the public health week, that when public health is doing well, we don't talk about it, and then sometimes that leads to cuts.

[06:07:27] This can be said about after-school programs. While juvenile crime is down, we forget why we invest in these programs. And Supervisor Lusk spoke of fighting inequities in health. And the after-school program and summer programs break down those walls as well.

[06:07:43] They offer free programming and free food to students. And the data shows that participation is equally represented from different ethnic groups across the county. With the difficult economic time in our community that we face right now, we cannot take this vital resource away from our community.

[06:08:02] The youth who will be the future of Fairfax and our country cannot pay the price, or we all do. And the cost to the county for all this free, accessible programming? It's a mere one-tenth of one percent of the budget. At a cost of about $100 a year, we provide a safe, enriching space for the most impressionable and vulnerable youth.

[06:08:24] Or we can spend $200,000 a year on incarceration costs for that youth. But the cost of losing your child to a gang, an overdose, a sex trafficker, or a suicide, that's immeasurable. I implore you to continue to fund the middle school after school program and continue the investment in our community.

[06:08:44] Thank you. This is another one that is budget testimony, so we're going to need to watch that with public comment. But let's make sure that this testimony is a part of our budget testimony that we receive as well. Thank you. We have two final speakers that have submitted video testimony.

[06:09:04] Speaker number nine is Gary Cohen. Good afternoon, Chairman McKay and members of the board. My name is Gary Cohen. I've lived and worked in Fairfax County now for 46 years. I own a home here, and I plan on retiring here as well. I have many concerns regarding how the county's budget and spending continue to grow exponentially over the years, and now we find ourselves facing a $300 million shortfall.

[06:09:27] I've done my research, and I believe that I fully understand from talking with many of you personally that most of the shortfall is due to the increased school funding that's needed and the disproportionate amount of revenue we receive from Richmond and declining real estate values when you factor in commercial real estate.

[06:09:43] That said, and fully recognizing that substantial cuts are already being proposed to help offset the shortfall, I'm a firm believer that a much deeper dive into spending is necessary. When times are tough, responsible leaders look at every line on their P&L. Scrutiny must be given to every expense and how it can be reduced, even if it's uncomfortable.

[06:10:03] Most leaders make tough decisions every year when it comes to cost reductions and sustaining their businesses. As you've heard from almost all of your constituents for many years now, everyone is seriously concerned about the rising cost of real estate in Fairfax County. Some say it's quickly becoming unaffordable here on income taxes alone.

[06:10:20] Young people find it harder and harder to locate affordable housing, And retired folks on fixed incomes are contemplating leaving the county due to real estate taxes as well. While I'm not sure how to lower real estate taxes, I am positive that the solution is not to implement new taxes in other categories.

[06:10:38] Implementing a proposed meals tax to help offset real estate tax is not a logical solution. It's simply moving the burden to a larger group of taxpayers who are already fed up with tax increases and already finding it harder and harder to balance their own personal budgets. Not to mention how devastating a meals tax would be to our area restaurants, who continue to struggle to survive for a host of reasons, including food costs, labor costs, higher rents, higher supplies, and higher utilities.

[06:11:04] With this area being hit so hard in recent weeks, and all the uncertainty of government workers are facing about possible layoffs, consumers are certainly going to cut back their spending, which will create even more devastating impact on restaurants, as clearly this is the first place that people cut their discretionary spending.

[06:11:23] the solution is to do a deeper dive into the county spending. While you may or may not agree with the federal government's approach on spending cuts, you must understand that citizens are very frustrated with government waste as well as increased taxes. You need to take a hard look at such ideas as reductions in force, freezing non-essential capital projects, hiring freezes, and austerity measures that will help reduce costs and balance the budget in any manner possible rather than adding more taxes to a population that clearly does not want this as a solution.

[06:11:52] As a long-term resident that appreciates all the benefits and services that Fairfax County has to offer, I understand the tough time to take drastic measures. This is a time that we must reduce spending further by implementing austerity measures and looking for efficiencies. Thank you for your time.

[06:12:10] So this is another one that has been scheduled for another public hearing, so we need to be careful about that, especially as we approach budget and a lot of testimony we're going to get with budget. So let's just be clear with people when they ask to get on the speaker's list, whether they're testifying on something that's already scheduled for a public hearing or not.

[06:12:31] And that brings us finally to speaker number 10, Robert Rigby, who also has submitted a video. Hello, friends. My idea with this video is that attacks on students and residents, be they queer, black or other underdogs, cause trauma and harm.

[06:12:51] But lack of visible defense and support by one's civic leaders magnifies the trauma and extends it for decades. This will be a personal speech, so buckle in. Forty years ago, a small group was started at my college comprising and supporting LGBTQ plus people at Dartmouth.

[06:13:12] It was called the Gay Student Association. There was also an anti-LGBTQ student newspaper, the Dartmouth Review, which was unfunded by large amounts of outside money. Editors Dinesh D'Souza and Nora Ingram specialized in dehumanizing groups of students and faculty who had often been scapegoated.

[06:13:34] Fear and disgust were something constantly in the air at Dartmouth indeed. My efforts to come out as gay at 19 were polluted by Ingram's public labeling of the GSA as the Dartmouth Bestiality Society and other insults.

[06:13:55] There were also words during her time at the Dartmouth Review that demeaned female, disabled, black, and indigenous people. The attacks on queer people contributed to a grave suicide attempt on my part.

[06:14:12] After 40 years, I still wear long sleeves and long pants to cover the scars on my body. A great contribution to the trauma that led to that attempt was the college's response to the drumbeat of hatred from Ingram and her writers.

[06:14:29] Dartmouth was silent, at least as far as I could see. Even when Ingram sent a reporter pretending to be LGBTQ into the GSA meeting with the tape recorder, Dartmouth remained silent. For me, it was clear that being openly gay was disastrous and no one was there to support.

[06:14:49] I entered 15 years of conversion therapy. Conversion therapy is so destructive that it's illegal in Virginia and against worldwide professional standards. The lack of clear defense of queer students under attack was the major reason that led me into conversion therapy.

[06:15:09] Open, vocal support for queer people would have helped a lot. In the current world, it would blunt the trauma for transgender students. Thank you for listening. Thank you very much, Robert, for your testimony.

[06:15:26] Sobering way to end a long day. But that does bring us to the end of our meeting, Board of Supervisors meeting of March 18th. And with that, the board is adjourned.

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