Coraggio Consulting
Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Meeting, Tuesday, February 3, 2026

Date: Tuesday, February 3, 2026
Place: Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, Virginia
Length: 4h 15m (video)
Official meeting video (Fairfax County): https://video.fairfaxcounty.gov/player/clip/4028
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 2026-10-28. Timestamps are [HH:MM:SS] into the meeting video.

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[00:00:07] Good morning, and everyone, I welcome you to our board meeting of February 3rd, 2026. Before we begin, I would like to share that Chairman McKay cannot participate today due to a pinched cervical nerve. He will be, yeah, not good.

[00:00:23] He will be watching from home and will be back very soon. Okay, we're going to get started. We will begin the meeting with a moment of silence to be followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Let me ask board members if they have anyone they would like to keep in their thoughts and prayers today.

[00:00:42] And I will start by sharing several individuals, the committee, the chairman asked that I recognize. So these are recognitions that the chairman was going to do. Mario Alex Rivera. It is with sadness that I learned of the passing of Fairfax County employee Mario Alex Rivera, who passed away on December 31st after a year-long battle with cancer.

[00:01:04] Alex began his career with the county working in the Department of Information Technology as an operations manager in the Technical Infrastructure Division in February 2002. He joined the Department of Planning and Development IT group in February 2006 and finished his career as the DPD IT program manager.

[00:01:24] Alex emigrated to El Salvador with his family in 1976, and outside of work he was a lifelong hobbyist with a passion for teaching himself complex skills including restoring vintage Porsche 911s and other notoriously challenging German cars as well as Swiss timepieces.

[00:01:44] Music was his greatest passion, and he was a true audiophile with a deep knowledge of tuners, speakers, amplifiers, and turntables. Alex was also the trusted handyman for friends and family, ready to lend a helping hand no matter how daunting the task.

[00:01:59] The county flag was lowered in his honor this past Friday, and my thoughts are with his loved ones and colleagues during this difficult time. Hannah Salisbury. Late last year, we lost Hannah Salisbury after a courageous battle with cancer.

[00:02:16] Hannah served Fairfax County and its residents as an employee of our Neighborhood and Community Services Department as a program administrator with the School Readiness Program. In this role and previous roles before coming to Fairfax County, Hannah showed a deep commitment to honoring the importance of early childhood years, empowering children, and nurturing their curiosity.

[00:02:39] Hannah and her contributions to our community will be greatly missed. The county flag was lowered in her honor yesterday, and my heart goes out to her husband, son, loved ones, and the Fairfax County family. LaVonna Grow. I also learned of the loss of another member of our community from cancer.

[00:02:58] LaVonna Groh was a member of the Board of Directors for the Faith Alliance for Climate Solutions, known as FACTS. She passed away last week after her battle with pancreatic cancer. LaVonna began her career as a media spokesperson, lobbyist, and executive director at Common Cause of Indiana, where she led the state organization of 3,000 members.

[00:03:20] After moving to Washington, D.C., she worked at George Washington University, where she created a government relations certificate program and served as deputy director of the U.S. Department of Education's Office of Post-Secondary Education. In 2000, LaVonna co-founded the Unitarian Universalists for Social Justice, which was established to strengthen social justice advocacy directed at Congress and federal agencies on issues like climate change, immigration, economic justice, and democracy by Unitarian Universalist congregations in the National Capital Region.

[00:03:55] She joined the FACS Board of Directors in 2025, where her energy, enthusiasm, and insight inspired all of her colleagues. My thoughts are with her family, colleagues, and loved ones. Alex Preddy. A week and a half ago, we all witnessed the murder of Alex Preddy, who was exercising his constitutionally protected rights while protesting the federal government's actions in Minneapolis.

[00:04:22] Alex was known by his colleagues, neighbors, and friends as a warm-hearted individual with a profound commitment to caring for others. Alex's professional life was defined by a passion for science and service. He initially worked as a research scientist, contributing to the academic community as a junior scientist at the University of Minnesota Medical School.

[00:04:44] Driven by a desire to work more directly with people, he returned to school to earn his nursing degree in 2021. Alex served as a registered nurse in the intensive care unit at the Minneapolis Veterans Affairs health care system, where he was devoted to the care and recovery of veterans.

[00:05:02] Alex's murder comes just weeks after we witnessed the murder of Renee Nicole Good, and I would like to emphasize the tactics we witnessed in both those instances and over the last several months are an antithesis to how we approach public safety here in Fairfax County.

[00:05:19] This board and previous boards have worked to build off the successes of our public safety agencies to ensure we work in partnership with our community while maintaining professionalism, accountability, and transparency. My thoughts and prayers are with Alex's friends and family, the countless lives he has touched throughout his career, and those he continues to impact through his death.

[00:05:47] Thank you. And with that, I'm going to call on my colleagues. We'll start with Supervisor Palachuk. Thank you, Madam Vice Chair. First of all, I want to share also my condolences and thoughts for Hannah Salisbury and her family.

[00:06:04] I think you shared quite a bit, and the part that really stands out is, you know, that she left such a profound difference. One person to the kindness, her purpose. Those of us who have little ones at home knew how challenging that is to raise those young minds and to ensure the care and creativity.

[00:06:25] And over the years, Hannah truly did that for the Department of Health and Human Services. She was truly a remarkable educator, a devoted mother, and deeply, deeply loved member of the community. So our hearts are with her husband, Benjamin, and her son, Nolan, and all who loved and honored her.

[00:06:43] In addition, one very sad passing here in the Oakton community. I want to take a moment to recognize the passing of Geddes Care. Geddes, we were scheduling him to do an interview for our oral history project when he was taken to hospice, and our hearts were just broken for him and his family.

[00:07:04] He was a lifelong Oakton resident whose life reflected service, faith, and deep, deep commitment to community. During World War II, he served as a naval military cartographer, including work to Antarctica, where he helped map critical terrain under extreme conditions.

[00:07:22] I know our county cartographers are deep friends of his. He was a devoted father, a man of faith, and truly a steady presence in Oakton, where he shared wisdom through his Weekly Word recorded series. We extend our deepest condolences.

[00:07:39] He was so beloved, not just by his community, but by his family and the life that he lived truly well in service to all around him. So our deep condolences to the Oakton community and to the family of Mr. Geddes Kerr.

[00:07:57] Thank you. Supervisor Alcorn. Thank you, Madam Chair. I have two announcements. One may be news to some of my colleagues. Yesterday, Dick Kennedy passed away in hospice care. And I think, as many of you know, Dick was a long-time Reston resident and a resident of the Waterview Cluster.

[00:08:19] And he was active for many years in many different things, including the Reston Planning and Zoning Committee. But he's probably best known to you all as the Hunter Mill District Commissioner on the Fairfax County Redevelopment and Housing Authority from 2009 until December 2023.

[00:08:39] Dick was committed to advancing affordable housing in Fairfax County, serving on several key committees and playing an instrumental role in transformative development projects and shaping the authority's policy during his 14 years of dedicated service. During his tenure as commissioner, he presided over several significant affordable housing development projects in the Hunter Mill District, including affordable housing at Island Walk, the Board of Supervisors' purchase of the Crescent Apartments, and the redevelopment of the Lake Anne Fellowship House, which has had personal significance for him.

[00:09:13] His mother lived in these affordable apartments for seniors, which were redeveloped a few years ago with the assistance from FCRHA. Before his service on the FCRHA board, Dick was a career senior executive with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, He had many roles during his decades working there, including as Director of Office of Block Grant Assistance and Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary of Grant Programs.

[00:09:44] Upon his retirement, he received HUD's highest honor, the Distinguished Service Award. Dick was also a veteran who served with distinction in the Vietnam War as a member of the United States Marine Corps. I understand memorial services are currently being planned, as it's just happened yesterday, but we're expecting services to happen later this month.

[00:10:07] So I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones during this difficult time. And I have one other announcement. I'm sad to announce the passing of Reverend Dr. Norman Atkins Tate, who many of you probably also know, he led the Heritage Fellowship Church in Reston for many years.

[00:10:28] He was originally from Chicago, and one of Reverend Tate's earliest callings was serving with the United States Capitol Police. And he later pursued his theological training at Washington Bible College, eventually earning both his Master of Arts and Master of Divinity degrees at Howard University, and receiving his Doctor of Ministry from United Theological Seminary in Dayton, Ohio. Early in his ministry, Pastor Tate served as a chaplain to the incarcerated men at the Lorton Reformatory. He shared in a 1992 Washington Post story that he felt this is

[00:11:04] where God wants me, and he also invited local churches weekly to enter the prison to minister to the inmates. In 1995, Reverend Tate accepted the call to pastor the congregation at Heritage Fellowship Church, and his vision of the church was really clear and truly unwavering. His ministry was marked by a passion for truth, unwavering faith, and a commitment to excellence in service, and this continues after he left there. He was well known for a sense of humor, both in and out of the pulpit and outside of the church. He proudly played on several

[00:11:40] championship bowling teams. Pastor Tate is survived by his beloved wife, Joyce, six children, four grandchildren, beloved pups Precious and Dougie, and a host of many other family and friends. You'll be deeply missed, and I extend my condolences to his family and all who loved him.

[00:11:59] Thank you, Madam Chair. Thank you, Supervisor Alcorn. Supervisor Sizemore Heuser. Thank you. And just briefly, as you know, sadly, several community members have passed away related to the recent snowstorm. And I just want to recognize one of those as a 70-year-old Braddock District resident.

[00:12:17] from Kings Park West. And my heart goes out to the victim and his family. And as we all know, the snow had a huge impact on all of us. And many of us are still digging out. But the impact was greater on some more than others. So as we still have snow on our streets and we're digging out, I just urge everyone to be cautious and careful.

[00:12:35] So thank you, Madam Chair. Thank you. Supervisor Lusk. Thank you, Madam Chair. I am sad to announce the sudden passing of Bill Courtney, a graduate of Lindbergh Elementary, Key Middle School, and the Robert E. Lee, now John R. Lewis, high school class of 1988, home of the Lancers. At the time of his passing, he was assistant coach of the Temple University men's basketball team. I want to give a special thank you to Christine Morin and the office of Supervisor Daniel Stork for helping coordinate the remembrance of her

[00:13:12] classmate. During Bill's senior year of high school, the Lancers were state basketball runners up. At Bucknell University, Bill earned all Patriot League honors and was inducted into the Bucknell Athletics Hall of Fame. After graduation, Bill returned to Fairfax County to coach Robinson Secondary School and Thomas Jefferson High School. Over his 30-year career, Bill held coaching positions at many prestigious programs, including George Mason University, the University of

[00:13:46] Virginia, Virginia Tech, the American University, and from 2010 to 2016, Bill served as the head coach at Cornell University. Bill dedicated his life to mentoring young athletes both on and off the court. At this time, I want to extend my deepest condolences to his wife, Gina, and their two sons. Thank you, Madam. Thank you. And with that, if everyone who is able could please rise

[00:14:16] for a moment of silence. Please place the flag. 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.

[00:14:56] The next part of our agenda is presentations, and our first item is the presentation of the Best Workplace for Commuters Employer Awards.

[00:15:13] And for that, I welcome to the podium Marcus Moore, FCDOT, Transportation Demand Management Team Lead. Good morning, Chairman McKay and the members of the board.

[00:15:32] Thank you for having me here this morning. I just want to mention that our scheduled guest speaker, Julie Bond, was unfortunately not able to join us due to the snow in the southern region, so I'll be stepping in on her behalf. Thankfully, she's given me her speaking notes on this last-minute update, so I'll be kind of sharing the notes that she had prepared for you all with this exciting news for these great employers that are here to be recognized today.

[00:15:56] So thank you for the opportunity to recognize Fairfax County's 2026 Best Workplaces for Commuters awardees. Best Workplaces for Commuters is a national gold standard for employer-based commuter benefits. BWC members include universities, employers, commercial and residential sites that meet the national standard of excellence.

[00:16:16] They demonstrate leadership in delivering high-level commuter programs such as transit subsidies, flexible schedules, telework, carpool and vanpool incentives, bike facilities and ongoing workforce transportation support. With today's ceremony representing our 16th year of promotion within Fairfax County, We continue to be one of the most active and successful BWC communities in the nation thanks to the innovation and leadership shown by employers and BWC partners in Virginia.

[00:16:45] I am honored to announce that Virginia is now officially the number one position in the nation for the most BWC members. Virginia has moved into this position by surpassing the state of California as well as the BWC hosting state of Florida this year.

[00:17:02] This is such a great accomplishment for the state of Virginia and was accomplished by the partnerships throughout the Nova region and specifically within Fairfax County, as we are represented as the top and most represented jurisdiction within the state. So we're very thrilled about that number one spot this year.

[00:17:20] BWC employers invest directly into advancing Fairfax County transportation and goals by reducing congestion and vehicle miles traveled, improving air quality and environmental performance, supporting employee wellness, productivity, and retention, as well as strengthening multimodal transportation networks and regional mobility.

[00:17:40] These programs generate real, measurable benefits that support a safer, cleaner, and more efficient travel environment within the community. I would like to thank the board for your continued leadership in championing transportation demand management, commuter benefits, and public-private partnerships that strengthen mobility throughout Fairfax County.

[00:17:59] Your support helps to make these achievements possible and reinforces Fairfax County's position as the national leader in sustainable commuting. At this time, we would like to have the chairman come down and join us, and we would like to recognize the 2026 Best Workplaces for Commuters honorees.

[00:18:16] We have 17 awardees this year, and what I'll do is I'll announce each employee by name, and I'll also provide, for your benefit, the district representation as well. So with that, we'll begin the list read. All right, so we have AAC Incorporated in the Providence District, Apple Federal Credit Union in the Braddock District, Association Innovation and Management Incorporated in the Hunter Mill District, AT&T Business Global Enterprise Solutions in the Sully District,

[00:18:55] Audi of America in the Hunter Mill District, Banner Solutions in the Providence District, Dev Technology Group in the Hunter Mill District, ICF in the Hunter Mill District, KNZ Solutions Incorporated in the Providence District, Marcon LLC in the Mason District, MDW Associates LLC

[00:19:32] in the Providence District, Peterson Companies in the Braddock District, Sintelligent Analytic Solutions LLC in the Mason District. We also have systems planning and analysis, which has three sites being represented, which are in the Sully, Providence, and Mount Vernon District.

[00:19:58] And then we have Take-Two Consulting, LLC. We also have our residential representative here today for Arrowbrook Center, which is in the Drainville District. And then we have a number of different representatives for the college campus category, which is the Northern Virginia Community College in Fairfax, Annandale, as well as the Springfield, So in the Braddock, Franconia, and Springfield District.

[00:20:23] That is your full list of the 2026 awardees, and we'd like to congratulate them all for their recognition and share.

[00:20:30] Okay, we have three presentations today.

[00:22:26] For each presentation, I will announce the proclamation and invite our speaker down to the podium. We will then read the proclamation, and after our speaker's remarks, we will pose for a picture from the dais. First, we have a resolution to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Centerville Volunteer Fire Department.

[00:22:47] This was requested by myself and Chairman McKay. Our speaker today is John S. Pete Kirby, District 8 Representative of the Virginia State Firefighters Association. And I see he's coming down. And I am going to turn the gavel to Supervisor Palchuk so I can read the resolution.

[00:23:09] Thank you, Madam Vice Chairman. We're going to do the resolution first. One second. I'm sorry, go ahead. No, that's okay. Madam Vice Chair. Whereas the Centerville Volunteer Fire Department has proudly served the residences, businesses, and visitors of Fairfax County for 75 years by providing fire suppression, emergency medical services, rescue operations, and community safety education.

[00:23:34] And whereas the Centerville Volunteer Fire Department is one of 12 private, non-profit volunteer fire and rescue companies partnering with Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department to provide emergency and non-emergency services that protect lives, property, and the environment.

[00:23:52] And whereas the Centerville Volunteer Fire Department operates from two fire stations, Fire Station 17 on Old Centerville Road and Fire Station 38 on O'Day Drive, both staffed 24 hours a day by career Fairfax County firefighters and emergency medical technicians with additional volunteer support.

[00:24:15] And whereas, since its founding, the Centerville Volunteer Fire Department has exemplified the highest ideals of public service with generations of volunteer firefighters, emergency medical technicians, officers, and administrative personnel selflessly dedicating their time, skills, and courage to serve the community.

[00:24:33] And whereas the members of the Centerville Volunteer Fire Department routinely risk their lives responding to various emergencies with professionalism, compassion, and unwavering commitment, now therefore be it resolved that the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, on behalf of all residents, does hereby congratulate the Centerville Volunteer Fire Department on the occasion of its 75th anniversary and extends its sincere gratitude and appreciation for 75 years.

[00:25:04] of distinguished service and dedication to the residents of Fairfax County with best wishes for continued success in the years ahead. I so move. Second. Moved by Madam Vice Chair Smith, seconded by Supervisor Beerman. Is there a discussion? Yes. I want to thank you for all the work you do in the community and being out in the community, providing programs to the community. I love to go to the events when we have the date in October with the fire prevention and teaching the community about what we do. I think it is such an important part of our community that people want to

[00:25:44] volunteer. And I know you have some of your volunteers come right from the community. So you've really built a history over the time of serving to the community. So I want to thank you for that. I'll add my thanks on behalf of the entire county and the chairman who I know couldn't join us today.

[00:26:00] I had a dear friend in high school who was a volunteer medic, firefighter, and I had no idea what incredible work could happen until I saw her passion and led her into the field of health and health services. So thank you for all you do for your 75 years of service on behalf of the board.

[00:26:17] And to that, seeing no further discussion, all those in favor, please say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Any abstentions? That passes unanimously with the chairman away for the day. And now I'll pass the gavel back over to Vice Chair Smith.

[00:26:37] Pete, would you like to go ahead and speak for us? Yes, I would, actually, and I want to thank you all very much for this resolution this morning. It means a lot to our members and to our community. I do have some other members with me. I'd like them to introduce themselves to you, let you know a little bit about who's here with you this morning.

[00:26:55] Good morning. I'm Patty Blankenship. I'm on the board of directors, and this year marks my 40th year of service to the department and the Centerville community. Good morning.

[00:27:10] My name is Karen Sika. I'm an administrative volunteer. It's my 29th year. I'm Phil Sika, a pair, 26 years. She actually drove me into the fire department on the volunteer side.

[00:27:27] Her parents were, oh, how many years? Way back when. And brought the whole family and her brother, her sister. Her sister brought her in as well. I'm an engine driver.

[00:27:46] I'm Wayne McDonald. I'm the newbie up here. I've been with the fire department for just under seven years. I have the privilege of being an EMT, a former treasurer of the department, as well as an instructor for community service volunteers.

[00:28:04] We teach the community various subjects free of charge whenever we're available. And the fire department backs all of our services up. Thank you. Thank you, guys.

[00:28:21] So 75 years ago, our department was formed, much like many other volunteer fire departments across the United States, for a reason. Most of those reasons have to do with fire loss or the loss of life associated with fire. But in Centerville, our reason was a little bit different.

[00:28:39] Back in those days, if you needed fire protection in Centerville and there was an emergency and you called the seven-digit number for assistance, firefighters had to come from either Fairfax, Herndon, Chantilly, or even Gainesville to answer calls.

[00:29:00] That's quite a distance. And we had a gentleman, Mr. King, who wanted to build and open a service station in Centerville. And everything was going great right up until the time that his insurers said, you're too far away from any fire departments.

[00:29:19] We don't want to insure you. You're too much of a risk. And so the idea of having a gasoline station with no firefighters in the community was not palatable to them. That exceeded their risk appetite, if you will. And so Mr. King met with farmers, merchants, members of the community, and talked about what the need was and suggested that a volunteer fire department be formed.

[00:29:46] And that is what led to the establishment of the department. So it was a matter of commerce that our department was created. But I believe today we probably are maybe the oldest, if not the second oldest, incorporated company in Centerville.

[00:30:04] So it's an honor to have been able to serve this long and to provide so many different services to Centerville and the surrounding community. We have a lot of great things that have happened over the years. We also had some inauspicious things that happened.

[00:30:19] I believe that we're the location of the first declared local emergency when the Colonial Pipeline broke back in the 1980s in the Singletons Grove community, which was then under construction. And our partnership with Fairfax County Fire and Rescue is long and storied, and there are great stories from there too, including that one, in which the first arriving firefighters, led by Lieutenant Butch Sisler, he ran through ankle-deep gasoline to a tractor that had been abandoned

[00:30:55] and was still running, the guy who clipped the pipe that caused the pipeline break. and he shut that tractor off. That's a pretty significant act of bravery, I believe. And it's just an act of many examples that have occurred on both the career and the volunteer side through the years.

[00:31:16] We're proud to have been able to serve the community this long, and we thank you again for your recognition this morning. Thank you so much. I'm going to come down for a photo, and if the board will rise.

[00:31:30] I'm getting my steps in today.

[00:32:42] Okay, we now have a resolution to honor Carrie Wilson for 25 years of dedicated service to Cornerstones and the region. This was requested by Chairman McKay, Supervisor Alcorn, and Supervisor Bierman.

[00:33:01] Our speaker today, of course, is going to be Carrie Wilson, Chief Executive Officer of Cornerstones, and she's already down here. And Supervisor Palczyk has the gavel, and I will read the resolution. Whereas Carrie Wilson has provided nearly 25 years of visionary and dedicated service as Chief Executive Officer of Cornerstones, a Reston-based nonprofit serving Fairfax County and the greater region.

[00:33:29] And whereas Ms. Wilson assumed leadership of the organization in 2001, guiding its growth from Reston Interfaith into Cornerstones, a prominent regional organization serving approximately 26,000 individuals annually. And whereas, under her leadership, Cornerstone's expanded critical services, including affordable housing, food, and financial assistance, child care, youth services, and emergency shelter operations, while owning and managing more than 100 affordable housing units in western Fairfax County.

[00:34:03] And whereas Ms. Wilson championed innovation and inclusivity, oversaw the organization's 2013 rebranding, and led significant expansions, such as the Free From Hunger Center in Sterling, and continued investment in community-centered solutions during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

[00:34:25] And whereas her steadfast commitment to advocacy, equity, and systemic change has strengthened families, elevated community awareness, and advanced the shared goal of ending hunger and housing insecurity, now therefore be it resolved that the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, on behalf of all residents, does hereby honor Carrie Wilson for her outstanding leadership and valuable contributions to the health and well-being of Fairfax County residents, and extends its deepest gratitude and best wishes as she enters her next chapter.

[00:35:00] I so move. All right, I'm so moved by Madam Vice Chair, and I believe it was an almost unanimous second. Is there a conversation, Madam Vice Chair? Yes, I know that Chairman McKay is sad not to be here today because this was really an important recognition for him to make.

[00:35:20] You know, I think we've all had a chance to work with Carrie and see her wonderful work and care for the community. It is really so important that we have people in our community that work to support people that are in need.

[00:35:36] I think the rebranding in 2013 was really very important, right, and to have the Free From Hunger Center in Sterling. And you serve on multiple boards and councils, including leadership in the Dulles Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Affordable Housing Advisory Council in Fairfax County.

[00:36:01] I know the organization has launched a national search to look for their next CEO. And they're going to announce your exit from Cornerstones and welcome the new CEO at their April 26th gala. So I can't thank you enough.

[00:36:17] We've worked together to do wonderful things, and I know that you're not going to forget. I'm sure you'll keep active. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you, Madam Vice Chair. I have Supervisor Alcorn and Supervisor Bierman, and I'll head down that way. Thank you, Madam Chair. This is a tough one.

[00:36:37] I'll be honest. I mean, this is, you know, I'm really happy for you, Carrie, personally, but I think it's only really starting to sink in that this is happening, at least for me. Um, yeah, this, this is, um, uh, I, I just have to say it.

[00:36:56] This, this is a loss for Fairfax County, um, that you're retiring. And that's not the purpose today. The purpose is, is to honor your service, but it is a loss. Um, and, but the reason that it's a loss is, is worth noting, which is, um, the impact that you have made on so many lives, so many lives in Northern Virginia over the years is

[00:37:26] remarkable. And I am honored to have worked with you and to have learned from you on so many things over now so many years, and I do just want to join my colleagues in thanking you for everything that you've done. Thank you, Carrie. Thank you, Supervisor Alcorn, Supervisor Beerman, and then followed by Lust. You're not supposed to have favorite constituents, but Carrie is one

[00:38:05] of mine. Raise my taxes. I told you she was one of my favorite constituents. It's not fair that John Faust got to work with you for 16 years and I get two, but it's, it's been a pleasure every moment. What Cornerstones does in North County, especially is incredible. The Herndon Neighborhood Resource Center is, I mean, if you want to smile, go to the Herndon Neighborhood Resource Center and see the types of services and the community that we bring together there. If you want to

[00:38:39] understand, I think the word was creative and innovative thinking. The fact that too often around here we see lines fixed on a map as walls. The idea that we would all contribute some to a free-from-hunger center in Sterling, because that was frankly the best location for it, and that the food distribution out of Sterling would help so many people in Fairfax County and Loudoun County. Again, cross lines. People don't necessarily think I'm on this side of Route 28,

[00:39:16] so I'm, you know, I'm in Fairfax. I'm on that side. I'm in Loudoun. And, you know, you've been a mentor to me. You've helped me so much in thinking about how to approach and how to serve underserved populations. They are not necessarily underserved because of you and the service that you do um and uh you're not allowed to move you have to help me with some stuff going on in your neighborhood soon um well we'll talk about that at future board meeting um but you you've done

[00:39:50] you've done such amazing work uh and it really is a huge loss um for the county which is why we expect you back at that that podium advocating um for your neighbors and and for people frankly who You've never even met, but you know that it's really important to serve them and to make their lives a little bit better.

[00:40:13] So thank you. Thank you. Supervisor Beardsman. Supervisor Lusk. Thank you very much. Let me start by saying congratulations, Carrie, on 25 years of leadership and innovation. Cornerstones is more than just an organization providing housing, food, and wraparound services.

[00:40:32] It's building strong, empowered communities by uplifting members to advocate for themselves. You understand that while Fairfax County, by all measures, is an affluent area, there are still many individuals who face housing insecurity, hunger, and poverty.

[00:40:51] You exemplify the belief that we have an obligation to uplift and support those in need. Amid this historic snowfall and bitter cold, Cornerstones has played a major role in providing hypothermia protection, shelters, protecting vulnerable members of our community from weather-related illness, and possibly the loss of life, which is so very important.

[00:41:16] And Kerry, I've had the pleasure of working with you over the past, I'm almost embarrassed to say this, 20 years, and you have been a dedicated advocate for those who are less fortunate. Your vision and your leadership have established a lasting framework for Cornerstone to contribute and to help individuals, families, and communities thrive.

[00:41:37] Thank you for your commitment, your selflessness, and passion. You are special in so many ways. Congratulations on your remarkable service, and best wishes, best wishes on your retirement.

[00:41:54] Thank you. Before I take the vote, I just want to try to make you cry a little bit more. And I will add that while this is a huge loss for the county, in some ways, I know now you'll be able to be the fiercest advocate, to speak your mind, to teach us more than you ever have.

[00:42:14] And I know we are delighted that you have left Cornerstone and your corner of Fairfax County, a better place than you found it. Thank you so much. So to that, I will go ahead and ask for the vote. All those in favor, please say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Any abstentions? The boat passes unanimously with the chairman away from the dais.

[00:42:33] Hey, Carrie, the floor is yours. Thank you all so much for this recognition. It really does mean a great deal because Fairfax County has been my home for most of my life.

[00:42:49] We moved here in 1976, military family getting off the road and coming here. And what we found in the Herndon area where we settled was, you know, an opportunity for service and a community that believed in fairness.

[00:43:05] And I think that spirit stayed with me and kept me here and able to serve. You know, over the years, when I think about what it means to live and work and raise my family here, you know, there's the personal side of it. Walter, our boys played baseball together.

[00:43:23] Go Hornets. You may not know that Herity and I graduated high school the same year and probably ran into each other on pool decks at swim meets, but I will say that you kept up with it. I have no excuse now not to get back in the pool, so that's where I will be.

[00:43:42] But working with each of you, it's just been such a joy on so many initiatives, and I so very much appreciate it. I know that serving where you live gives you the same joy that has brought me all these many years.

[00:43:59] During my 25 years at Cornerstones, I have had just incredible opportunity to work with this board and the amazing staff and partners on some really transformative initiatives. And, you know, from a day labor site strategy to the plan to prevent and end homelessness, the launch of One Fairfax, which is now being brought to life by Leadership Fairfax and Opportunity Neighborhoods in our community, and of course, the extraordinary collaboration during the COVID-19 pandemic and what we stood, and now the excitement of Crest, the

[00:44:39] Affordable Housing and Child Care Center right here on the grounds of the government center, where I've spent years of my life, dog years of my life, and it has been such an honor to serve as co-chair of the Affordable Housing Advisory Council with Delegate Rip Sullivan, first appointed by Jerry Connolly and then Jeff McKay. AHAC, which let's be honest, sounds like something that Bill the Cat threw up, has helped shape some of the most meaningful housing policy

[00:45:13] we've advanced together. And my good friend, Dr. Jerry Poggi, would say, I bend on humbled knee to say, we need to keep going. We're not done yet. None of this work would be possible without the remarkable people who make Fairfax County what it is. And I have treasured county partners from my early year, Kate Hanley, Kathy Hudgens, John Faust, Tony, Verde, Carla, and Lila. To all of you who are leading the way today, Brian, Chris, the Toms, if you know, you know, Ramona, Baby,

[00:45:53] and so many others, so many of the staff sitting with you up there and back in your offices who get the work done and who are real partners with us in every community to recognize my colleagues across the nonprofit and faith community, their creativity, compassion, and persistence. An ability to pivot, that was the word of the day, right, during COVID, defines what partnership really looks like. And I will say now that we're working in other

[00:46:25] jurisdictions, that's very unique. And I thank them. Most of all, this recognition is for my Cornerstones family, the staff, board, and volunteers, who are the heart and soul of our mission. Sorry. They are the ones that meet people every day with dignity, hope, and practical help.

[00:46:52] and my greatest privilege has been to steward the organization to showcase their work and their impact and i'm so grateful we're very excited we will be announcing a new ceo and i know that person is going to bring the same commitment and leadership and so i'm so excited about that again thank you for letting me be part of the remarkable story of fairfax county and for the chance to keep building this community we call home together so thank you

[00:47:35] Carrie, please come down, and I'd like Supervisor Alcorn and Bierman to join me in the front and the rest of the board to stand.

[00:47:46] Finally, we have a proclamation to designate February 2026 as Black History Month in Fairfax County.

[00:49:52] This was requested by Chairman McKay and Supervisor Lusk. Our speaker is going to be Kia Kohl-Hinds, President and CEO of Leadership Fairfax. So I ask, he is on her way down, and I am going to turn to Supervisor Lusk for the resolution.

[00:50:09] Okay, thank you. Proclamation. Whereas Black History Month was first nationally recognized in 1976 and observed each February, honors the legacy, culture, resilience, and contributions of African Americans, and provides an opportunity to recognize their profound impact while acknowledging the persistent inequities and injustices faced by our black communities in the United States, Commonwealth of Virginia, and Fairfax County.

[00:50:42] And whereas Fairfax County acknowledges its complex history with our historically black communities and recognizes that past injustices continue to shape present realities and future opportunities. And whereas African Americans have made invaluable contributions to the growth and success of our nation and Fairfax County with lasting achievements in education, science, technology, the arts, public service, business, and social justice movements.

[00:51:18] And whereas Fairfax County continues to honor Black history by recognizing and uplifting the individuals whose leadership, service, and advocacy have made a lasting impact on our community.

[00:51:34] And whereas the 2026 Black History Month theme, a century of Black history commemorates, promote, protect, preserve, serves as a call to action to preserve the history and memory of Black life.

[00:51:53] We celebrate the countless contributions of African Americans that have benefited everyone while reaffirming Fairfax County's commitment to fostering a more just and fair county for all. Now, therefore, be it resolved, the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, on behalf of all residents of Fairfax County, does hereby proclaim February 2026 as Black History Month in Fairfax County

[00:52:21] and encourages all residents to unite in recognizing, uplifting, and celebrating African-American history, heritage, culture, and contributions. I'll second that along with Supervisor Palachuk. Discussion on the motion. Supervisor Lusk?

[00:52:39] Yes, I'll just make a few comments here. I think it's so essential that we recognize the contributions of members of the African-American and black community whose profound impact extends across Fairfax County, the Commonwealth, and this nation.

[00:52:58] And as I think about Black History Month, I hear this quote often from Dr. Martha King, where he says, everyone can be great because everyone can serve. You don't need to have your subject and verb agree. All you need is a heart filled with love and a soul generated by grace.

[00:53:23] And when we think about this climate that we currently live in and the uncertainty that we see as it relates to many of the adverse conditions affecting our marginalized communities, we all have a responsibility to illuminate these injustices and to stand and serve with our neighbors.

[00:53:50] And as I think about my own family, I hearken back to my own grandparents who, very poor, but in terms of life and history, made sure I learned the things that are important in life and the lessons that they taught me.

[00:54:14] And these are exemplified through all of those who are African American and black. And that is, you have a responsibility to honor your commitments. You have a responsibility if you see someone in need or you see someone that's suffering, you have a responsibility to help.

[00:54:38] And I just appreciate those lessons. I've carried them in the work that I have committed to here on this Board of Supervisors. And I can say that because of my grandparents and my ancestors, I am here as a member of this Fairfax County Board of Supervisors and serving as its first African-American male in its history.

[00:55:02] And I am very proud of that. And I'm also proud of the responsibility that comes with it. And I recognize that it's my role on this board to ensure that I do everything to make this community better for those who are less fortunate.

[00:55:18] And I am committed to continuing to do that. And with that, I will close my remarks. Thank you very much. Thank you, Supervisor Lusk. I have Supervisor Storr. Well, thank you, Madam Vice Chair. And I want to acknowledge the comments of my colleague and, frankly, his long dedication to this community, not just the African-American community, of course, but the broader community and his service, frankly, to that community.

[00:55:48] The Richmond Highway Corridor is far better as a result of that service. I first met Supervisor Lusk when we served on SFDC and were very involved with trying to make the community better, and he's continued that in his service to the highway.

[00:56:04] And we all are fortunate to have not only Supervisor Lusk but so many others who have dedicated their life to making a difference in their community, regardless of what that community may look like, but recognizing that if we help one, we help all of us.

[00:56:20] And in that respect, I wanted to thank everybody here, but also to I wanted to to make sure that we honor key parts of the history of Fairfax County. And I have the good fortune, frankly, of being a key part of the community.

[00:56:39] Not only my kids and I have grown up with folks at Gum Springs and the huge commitment that that community has made and the preservation of that community, which is a core commitment that I've made because recognizing the oldest African-American community in Fairbanks County will always be one of my principal responsibilities, but also a core part of how we create kind of the awareness and understanding and share those lived experiences that so many have had.

[00:57:10] The other part is I want to acknowledge, as I pretty much do every year, the Quandter family, the oldest documented African-American community in the United States, going back to the 1600s. And I'm also deeply blessed by having so many members of the Quandter family be part of our community.

[00:57:28] And really, for so many years for me, particularly those of you who may remember the Abe Lincoln look-like things I've done and the connection with that community. I am heading that way because this is a semi-quincentennial, and we need to honor all parts of America.

[00:57:49] And I know in this day and age, particularly, I feel that pressure that most of us do that some individuals are trying to ignore, trying to, if you will, to repress that past, and that past is us.

[00:58:07] That past is our history. That past is a core part of who we are and what has made us stronger, right? What doesn't kill you makes you stronger, and I think that's a key part of our African-American and black history journey. And then the other community I particularly wanted to honor because it also is a key community that has kind of broken the bonds of discrimination and the history that we've all kind of lived with, some obviously more deeply impacted than others, and that is the Randall Estates community.

[00:58:44] Many of you may not be as familiar with them. They are a community of folks who truly just wanted to have a suburban home in Fairfax County, and they were said no. There were discriminatory provisions in our deeds and land use, if you will, laws at that time.

[00:59:06] And Jube Scheiber, particularly, and many others said, no, we truly ought to be able to have that same suburban experience as anyone else. And I think the good news is that they overcame those restrictions.

[00:59:23] And we still, in some ways, those restrictions are still in our laws, even though they're not any longer applicable, but you can remove those restrictions. And I urge everybody to take a look at their deed and to have them eliminated. And I know I worked with a county attorney, and we have methods that we can continue to work with folks who may want to do that.

[00:59:44] But in particular, I want to just say on the Randall Estates folks, it is now an historic district recognized by the state. And I think an opportunity for all of us to take one more thing and say we can make it and do it better. Particularly for me, a woman by the name of Inez Bryant.

[01:00:02] Some of you may know Inez. She's an Olympian, very successful, not only a vice principal at West Potomac High School, Then went on to become principal at Prince William County Schools and has really served as a role model for countless individuals, black and white and everything in between.

[01:00:28] Particularly for my daughter, she was a huge part of her experience and a huge part of, I think, what she's been able to accomplish as a result of that leadership. So it means a great deal to me to do this every year, and it means a great deal to honor the history that elevates black voices, recognizes contributions in all their forms, and remains committed to equity, opportunity, and respect through both our policies and our actions.

[01:00:56] So, again, my deep thanks to all of you. Thank you. Supervisor Palachuk. Thank you, Madam Vice Chair. I just want to add a tiny bit about history. you know, I was never a history buff. History was never my favorite subject until I went and studied oral history, right? And until recently, I thought that I had never thought about government until, you know, 10 years, 20 after my graduation. But just this last week, the alumna who interviewed me for my college acceptance sent me her notes. And she's a wonderful, prominent member of our community. And we were both surprised to see that we had that connection. And some of the things I

[01:01:35] said I remembered wanting a more diverse community than we had here 30 years ago, especially at a high school, Thomas Jefferson, that I felt needed to have more diversity. But she said that I saw through my government class the importance of government and of doing the systemic work and sharing those stories. So to me, this work that's being done here, that's done by our schools and excited leadership Fairfax is here to share more, really is, we know our history and Black and African-American history is our history.

[01:02:07] And the changes that need to occur and the issues are systemic. They're not individual or personal. They are systemic. And that change needs to continue, whether it's deeds, whether it's the actions we take, whether it's the leadership that we grow within our community, whether it's inspiration for the next communities.

[01:02:27] So we did kick that off, 2021, with our Black Historical Marker Project, which is now has many, many items there. But what I always come back to is for me, it was one of my first walks, the first marker I ever saw was the Pines community. I knew nothing about the Pines community. I lived across the street from that park for several years. And as I went through and learned about that family and understood the importance of sharing and these stories, we talk about Mount Vernon, right? We know a little bit about Quandah Road. I had no idea about the Pines family, the Merrifield family, all the families in our area in Vienna, and how we got to be a less diverse,

[01:03:07] less rich, in my mind, community because of the actions that were taken towards those families. So I'm just delighted that we can't go back and change history, but the work that NCS does, that Tony and her team do, that Leadership Fairfax and all of us try to do more and more to help us expand our knowledge, help unearth those hidden stories, try to grab as many of those oral stories as we still can while some of those members are still alive, to share those with us.

[01:03:39] To me, that's the best thing we can leave for our next generation. And to that, in addition to asking people to please go on the History Commission website, Black African American Markers, go visit the ones in your community or across the county.

[01:03:55] I know that the library and other partners are doing incredible programming. And because I represent Providence, I just want to share one, since I have the mic for our community. It's this coming Saturday, Oakton Library will have at 1 p.m. the lost black communities of Merrifield, the Pines, and Williamstown.

[01:04:17] And I know those of us who want to learn more, if we're able to, we'll try to attend that. Mary and Ransel Dobbins will be giving that lecture. And so I also want to thank the libraries this year, I don't know if they're here today, for ensuring that we have more access to the oral history and better understanding of how we got to where we are.

[01:04:35] So thank you, and thank you, Kia, for being here. Thank you. As was in the proclamation, the theme is promote, protect, and preserve. And I think we have a tendency as people to think, oh, we did that, we're done, it's all fixed. And we know that that's not the case.

[01:04:52] And, you know, Leadership Fairfax is here. It's a great learning program for people. They get experiences about the county and things that are here. And I think it's really important that the Inclusive Leadership Institute arose out of feedback from leadership Fairfax alumni, who identified the need for leadership training to address racial equity as a critical missing component.

[01:05:19] A committee was formed to design a specialized program for leaders seeking a deeper understanding of systemic racism and its historical foundations in Fairfax County. And I think that's why we all love living here, right? That we embrace our diversity, and we're trying to be really thinking about what we're doing and the impact of what we do.

[01:05:41] And so I'm going to be quiet now and turn the floor. Oh, I forgot to take a vote. We have to vote. Okay. Seeing no further discussion, all those in favor of the motion, please say aye. Aye. Anyone opposed? Any abstentions? that motion carries. Now, Kia, the floor is yours. Thank you, Vice Chair Smith, members of the board and County Executive Hill. My name is Kia Cole-Hines, and I'm the president, CEO, and proud alumna of Leadership Fairfax programs. It is truly an honor to be here to receive this proclamation on behalf of Leadership Fairfax, our nearly 3,000 alumni, among them Supervisor Lesk, my colleagues

[01:06:17] that are here with me today, and parts of the inaugural and current Inclusive Leadership Institute cohort. Thank you all very much for being here. As the region's premier leadership development organization, Leadership Fairfax's mission is to prepare individuals for leadership roles, connect them with leaders across our community, and bring together voices from every sector, government, business, non-profit, education, land use and development, public safety, finance, and more. This cross-sector collaboration allows us to work collectively to maintain and expand the opportunities that make Fairfax County such a thriving community.

[01:06:51] A critical part of that work is the county's continued and steadfast commitment to One Fairfax. One Fairfax is more than a policy. It reflects our shared values and identity as a community. Building on the county's leadership, last year, Leadership Fairfax launched the Inclusive Leadership Institute, the county's only forward-facing program designed to promote One Fairfax beyond just county government.

[01:07:15] Each cohort brings together participants from across sectors, allowing Leadership Fairfax to serve as a conduit. Because meaningful, lasting change can only happen when we work together and advance a more racially just society. Like our other signature programs, the Inclusive Leadership Institute is experiential in nature.

[01:07:33] It provides participants the opportunity to explore diversity, equity, and inclusion while gaining a deeper understanding of the historical context and ongoing racial and ethnic disparities experienced in our community and beyond. The goal is to foster collective commitment among cohort members to build an alliance of leaders dedicated to advancing racial equity within their organization and throughout the community.

[01:07:55] I can stand here all day and tout how amazing the ILI program is, but I'm clearly biased. Drew Clark, who is here with me today, Assistant Director of Operations at the 911 Center, said, The Inclusive Leadership Institute not only transformed the way I lead in my everyday role, but fundamentally changed how I approach human-centered change.

[01:08:13] Every data point, statistic, and metric has an origin, a story, and a home. ILI brought life to the story behind who we are as a country, where we are headed as government leaders and practitioners, and how to arrive at our goals with hope, courage, and audacity. I am so thankful to be part of the ILI legacy.

[01:08:32] From Audrey Ampoma, Project Manager for the Department of Procurement and Material Management. She's here, too. Being a part of the inaugural ILI cohort is one of the highlights of my time with the county. For me, the Inclusive Leadership Institute offered a critical blueprint for systemic deconstruction.

[01:08:50] By applying the frameworks and strategies shared in this program, I am now better equipped to move beyond the why of equity and execute the how of dismantling inequitable systems. This year's Black History Month theme of Promote, Protect, and Preserve aligns perfectly with the work of Inclusive Leadership Institute.

[01:09:07] To promote, protect, and preserve, we must examine and change the systems that have produced inequities, beginning with an honest reflection on the roles we have played and committing ourselves to helping make those systems more just. At a time when inclusion-focused efforts in both the public and private sectors are facing increased scrutiny and challenge, Leadership Fairfax is proud to stand with Fairfax County. Inclusion and belonging are human values, and we are honored to be your partner in growing understanding, acceptance, and shared commitment so that we may all succeed as one Fairfax. Thank you very much. Thank you. So we are ready for our

[01:09:45] photo. If you come forward, Supervisor Lusk, and I will go down. Yes. Next, we will have a

[01:11:24] presentation of the Don Smith Award, and for that I will recognize Norman Hall, Chairman of the Employee Advisory Council. Norm, welcome. The floor is yours. Thank you. If the other members of the EAC wish to come down, I would like them to be right behind me. Later on, we'll have all the nominees come forward who are present. Good morning, Vice Chair Smith and members of the Board of Supervisors. My name is Norm Hall, and it is my great honor to appear before you as the Chair of Fairfax County Employees Advisory Council. EAC was established in 1957 and now serves greater

[01:12:04] than 16,000 employees in the county's merit system. Over this next year, the EAC will continue to make sure your employees are appreciated through office and other workplace morale boosters, communication about county news of interest, and as a forum for ideas about how to achieve excellence in public service and employee satisfaction. In this, we will work with labor groups and individual workers regardless of union affiliation. Every year, we sponsor the Don Smith Awards to recognize those county employees whose efforts to make workplaces better go far

[01:12:43] above and beyond the tasks that their positions call for. These are not achievement awards earned through job performance. These are selfless acts done with no expectation of personal gain. There were 22 nominations, all of whom were invited to join us today for a pre-meeting reception and individual recognition. At this time, I would like all of the nominees to stand, those who are here, and it includes Aaron in both categories.

[01:13:17] Please be seated. This year, we are recognizing one honorable mention from this group. This nominee will receive $250 as part of today's recognition.

[01:13:33] Maxwell Biak is described as a go-to person among wastewater management staff at DPWES when seeking assistance for challenging problems. Max took on the task of managing an inventory of laboratory equipment leading to their sale with proceeds going back to the county. Not only that, But he used his personal 3D printer to design and create water filters that are much easier for staff to transport and demonstrate at schools all over Fairfax County.

[01:14:09] Smaller, 2 feet tall, not 3 feet tall. Lighter, 7 pounds, not 17. And less expensive, $75, not $400 each. Please step forward so everybody can see you. And now, time to salute this year's winner of the Don Smith Award, Aya Khan.

[01:14:36] Please rise. In the words of Drew Clark, which I guess we just heard a few minutes ago on a different topic, he's the Assistant Director of Operations for our Department of Public Safety Communications.

[01:14:52] And he made this nomination, so I'm reading his words, but I thought they were awesome. Communication Operations Supervisor Aya Khan exemplifies the very spirit of the Don Smith Awards through her extraordinary and voluntary efforts to strengthen the emotional well-being, morale, and sense of belonging among Fairfax County employees.

[01:15:14] In a time of heightened political polarization, national unrest, and rising emotional strain, COS Khan recognized an urgent need. Her colleagues needed a space to be heard, to process, to heal, and to simply be human.

[01:15:32] What she began as a cultural climate town hall in April has now evolved into an ongoing initiative known as the DPSC Brother Sister Circle, a sanctuary of psychological safety in one of the most high-stress environments in local government.

[01:15:50] The original town hall initiative was not part of COS Khan's core responsibilities as a supervisor. It was born purely from her sense of moral responsibility and her deep commitment to the well-being of her colleagues. In response to shifts in the national political climate and their ripple effects on staff morale, COS Khan spearheaded and hosted two town hall sessions on April 29th and 30th, ensuring all employees had access while maintaining operational continuity.

[01:16:25] These sessions created a rare and powerful opportunity for staff to discuss the emotional, cultural, and societal impacts they were experiencing both inside and outside the workplace. During these sessions, employees shared stories of racial injustice, cultural trauma, fears surrounding the political climate, challenges relating to parenting, health issues, grief, financial instability caused by government uncertainty.

[01:16:55] Tears were shed, hands were held, and voices that often go unheard in the fast-paced world of emergency communications were finally given space. COS Khan ensured the environment was not only safe but brave by partnering with peer support members to provide on-site resources for anyone needing additional emotional assistance.

[01:17:22] Recognizing the overwhelmingly positive response and demonstrated need, COS Con transferred the town hall into the ongoing brother-sister circle. This space now serves as a monthly gathering where employees can discuss life challenges such as government shutdown impacts, new parenthood, mental health struggles, workplace stress, grief, and societal issues, or simply come to listen and support others.

[01:17:49] The initiative reinforces the idea that DPSC is not just a workplace, but a family. Her message to staff is clear and consistent. You are not alone. The results of her efforts have been profound. Attendance continues to grow.

[01:18:06] Employees across shifts and assignments report feeling more connected, more supported, and more valued. The initiative has strengthened peer relationships, reduced emotional isolation, and improved workplace morale by addressing invisible burdens often carried in silence.

[01:18:25] In a profession where secondary trauma is commonplace, COS Khan has given her colleagues a lifeline rooted in compassion, empathy, and intentional care. COS Khan's work embodies the essence of Don Smith's legacy, improving the lives of fellow employees through selfless service and insight beyond formal job duties.

[01:18:47] Her dedication to psychological safety, equity, and human connection has created a lasting impact that extends beyond DPSC and serves as a model for how leadership can heal. Thank you, Drew.

[01:19:04] And on behalf of the Employees Advisory Council and all of Fairfax County government, I want to present our highest honor to you, IACON. Thank you very much. And thank you, Vice Chair Smith, for the opportunity to present these awards.

[01:19:29] It was wonderful. Congratulations. It is great to see this work that our employees do. And I guess we're ready for a photo. All of the nominees, if you care to come forward.

[01:19:45] Good morning. Next, our presentation by Kate Hanley, Chairman of the Electoral Board, regarding election year 2025, where I know not much happened, right, Kate?

[01:21:40] Good morning. This is Tuesday. It must be an election in some part of Fairfax County, as well as being a Fairfax County Board of Supervisors meeting. Thank you all for being so flexible. I've canceled on you twice before because it was Election Day.

[01:22:01] First, let me introduce my colleague on the electoral board, Kevin Pinckney, who is the secretary. Kevin, say good morning. There you go. All those people who are sitting in the back of the room waiting to escape, I fear.

[01:22:21] Let me introduce some of them, not all of them. Eric Spicer, the registrar. Sitting next to him is Beth Methfessel, the clerk to the electoral board and the ADA coordinator. And I'm not sure I can see all of you sitting in the shadows, but I think Cord Spicer, our IT deputy, is up there.

[01:22:42] Sean Stewart, who does PR and all things external and is in charge of me this morning, is right there running the slides. Tyrone Allen isn't here because, is he? But he tells me that his people that work on machines in the warehouse are doing LNA testing in the warehouse this morning and watching you on television.

[01:23:05] So let's say good morning to them. Good morning. Sean Rogers, our training guru, is up there someplace. And the people that you get to work with in your offices so often, Florence Brown and Bill Turley, chief and assistant of satellites, you two are up there.

[01:23:22] Yes, thank you. And we'll have a picture later. These folks, and everyone else connected with the Office of Elections, have been working around the clock and calendar this year to be sure Fairfax County voters have safe, secure, accurate, and accessible elections.

[01:23:42] This election calendar, there it is. This election calendar from May 2025 through April 26 is a busy-looking slide because it is a busy calendar. The bold colors are all days when voting was underway in Fairfax County or some parts of it.

[01:24:05] The paler shade right after where the election tags are that show election day show those additional days where staff and the board work to tabulate and report votes, research the same-day registrations, adjudicate provisional ballots, and do the abstracts and certificates.

[01:24:23] The green days of May and June are the days of last year's Democratic primary. As you are aware, voting starts with the mail-out of ballots 45 days before the election day. On those days, voting in person starts here in the office of the registrar and usually also in North County and Mount Vernon Governmental Center.

[01:24:44] The other 13 satellites around the county open up for about 10 or so days when voting days before the primary election day. Blue. Blue days in July, August, and September were voting days in the 11th Congressional District special election following the death of Congressman and former chair of this board, Jerry Connolly. Election day was September 9th. Braddock District Supervisor James Walkenshaw's victory created a vacancy on the Board of Supervisors. More about that later. The unusual

[01:25:23] white space in July was not our summer vacation. Those days were spent accepting and testing new voting equipment, 650 new ballot marking devices, and updating all 700 ballot scanners. Peach. The peach days. Voting by mail started on September 19th, lasting through November 4th, the general election day for governor, lieutenant governor and attorney general and members of the general assembly. The tag says general and special. It always says that for the November elections. The olive days. Those days

[01:26:03] are the more about that later days I mentioned earlier. The special election to fill the Braddock district supervisor seat began on October 24th and ended on December 9th, electing supervisor Sizemore Heiser. Congratulations. You may have noticed that there are a number of days with two colors, meaning two elections were going on at once. With two separate in-person voting locations operating here in the government center, it is a challenge to keep mail and activities separate.

[01:26:38] With a spectacularly detailed planning team, they pulled it off without a hitch. During those unusual days in white in September, in December rather, it was not snow. It was the announcement of upcoming special elections in January. Special elections for the General Assembly vacancies created by gubernatorial appointments just after November elections often do not have long lead time. That truth held here. The office went into planning mode during the holidays. January is a

[01:27:18] calendar of many colors. Moving to Pumpkin, the special election in House of Delegates District 11 started on January 13th in two localities, Fairfax City and Fairfax County. Fairfax County's 15 precincts were in five different magisterial districts, Braddock, Springfield, Providence, Hunter Mill, and Sully. The House of Delegates District 17, shown in red, started January 10th, 19 precincts in Franconia and Mount Vernon election day was January 20th meanwhile and

[01:27:57] the yellow ones show starting January 16th early voting for the March 3rd special election for the Braddock district school board seat that supervisor Sizemore Heiser vacated to take her seat here and that election as I said will start on January will be on March 3rd turquoise turquoise managed to creep into January. Starting last Saturday, voting began for the February 10th.

[01:28:26] Next Tuesday, special election in State Senate District 39 in Alexandria City, parts of Arlington, and seven precincts in Mason District in the Bailey's Crossroads area. Now for the Lavender. The possibility of a redistricting referendum announced tentatively for April 21 will start pretty soon we don't know when and in late may we start again if there's a primary in either party for the november senate and house of representative elections depending on when that primary is all

[01:29:03] those brightly colored days represent days that someone in fairfax county had the opportunity to cast a ballot by mail early in person or on the designated day voting is a good thing and it's up us to do anything we can do to alleviate confusion. And there was and is a lot of confusion.

[01:29:27] To help voters in each district, the office sent out postcards to voters in those smaller districts indicating what the election was, the times and places for early voting, and the precinct location on election day in four languages. For the special elections, early voting has taken place and the registrar's office here to allow us to use existing personnel if needed and to keep costs down, as well as a location in or near the affected district. People came to vote clutching their

[01:30:00] postcards, acknowledging how grateful they were for the information. Back to the November general election. This is the familiar sample ballot that was mailed to registered voters before the November general election again this year. Not only does it include a sample ballot for your precinct, but it lists the locations and times of early voting and also the location of your precinct polling place on election day. People bring them to the polls too. Because these are

[01:30:34] returned if undeliverable, they help to clean the voter rolls and thereby prevent mailing unnecessary mail, saving money as well as improving accuracy. Here are the numbers. These are slides that are familiar to you. You can look at them up close. Here are the numbers for this election, this November's election, compared to the previous four. As usual, they show that the presidential election is at the largest, followed by the gubernatorial. Early voting in person and by mail continues to be popular. There are concerns, though, that changes to the USPS

[01:31:13] delivery system could be a problem for those voters who mail their return ballots close to Election Day. As you know, as of now, those ballots have to be here by Friday noon and postmarked by Election Day. The postmark issue is a whole other problem. Dropboxes will be an important part of this solution. This is the jagged mountain range chart, which shows in dramatic form how voter turnout changes with each type of election. Presidential year turnout is the peak

[01:31:48] every four years. Local elections are the quadrennial valleys. It means planning each year can be difficult because the most relevant comparison is four years back, and sometimes there is lots of change in four years, particularly legal actions taken at the General Assembly.

[01:32:11] Now, to nourish your traditionally competitive instincts, this is the annual map of numbers at voting satellites. The top three locations are open the entire 45-day period, so they obviously attract more voters.

[01:32:27] In the group of 13 that operated for 10 days, West Springfield and McLean were again the leaders of the pack. And the parking pack as well. In that group, Burke Center climbed from 5th to 3rd, and Jim Scott Community Center rose from 8th to 6th.

[01:32:49] Both of those last two are precinct locations on Election Day, Election Day itself, under a different name. And we're working to find ways to be sure that voters understand that they must live in that precinct to vote there on Election Day.

[01:33:08] I'm sure many of you have people coming into your offices wanting to vote on election day and are not at all happy to discover that you can't. So we know that is a problem we're working on. Same-day registration, while coming down from a gubernatorial year, it is increasing overall, thereby increasing the number of provisional ballots cast and accepted.

[01:33:33] The office has established a process to handle SDRs that improves accuracy and therefore acceptance of the provisional. Most provisionally cast ballots do count. People often say they don't. Most of them do. A safe, secure, accurate, accessible election depends on those who conduct it, our election officers.

[01:33:56] As you can see, the office requires as well as provides a substantial amount of training. Many people take more than is required. well-trained officers are crucial to the success of an election. Fairfax Countyans vote in a wide variety of locations in our 265 precincts at 232 different locations.

[01:34:21] 33 of those locations have two precincts. 167 school buildings host precincts. 30 of those host two. The school division also helps deliver equipment to those precincts.

[01:34:38] Many thanks to FCPS for closing schools on September 9 and November 4. Additionally, the schools involved with the special elections that have been held when school is in session have gone above and beyond, particularly those schools in Braddock District, who have been or will be involved in at least three, maybe four, elections while students are there.

[01:35:03] The principals and staff in schools opened during the recent special elections have found ways to accommodate voting and keep students safe. It isn't always easy. It means a different door. It often means closing off part of the schools.

[01:35:21] All the facilities who host precincts are much appreciated. When an election is to occur, only in a defined emergency can the polling place be moved. Part of the agreement with those locations is that it will be available on election day, including special election days, no matter what.

[01:35:45] So suitable, accessible accommodations, including parking, must be found at the approved, publicly already published location, those locations that you all have set an ordinance. Sometimes that is complicated.

[01:36:03] They make changes and sacrifices. The next is a list of county, town, and state buildings broken out of the pack there to show all the different other public facilities besides schools used for voting.

[01:36:19] Thanks to all of those departments who are so helpful in holding elections, they have to make sudden adjustments too. And let me take just a moment to read the list of all our department and agency partners in Fairfax County and give them a shout out.

[01:36:36] Channel 16, the Circuit Court and Records, and the Clerk of Court, Chris Falcon, Emergency Management and Security, the Fairfax County Park Authority, the Police Department. I've mentioned public schools, fire and rescue, information technology, printing services.

[01:36:56] Boy, have we used printing services this year because we're trying to improve our signage at the schools, and particularly with different locations in some of those schools. the Office of the County Attorney, and particularly Marty Desjardins, Procurement and Materials Management, the Office of Public Affairs, the Sheriff's Office and Stacey Kincaid, the Town of Herndon and the Town of Vienna Police, the Virginia Department of Transportation, and the Virginia State Police. We actually have an emergency kind of war room here with several of those groups

[01:37:32] on election day. There it is. This is a familiar slide and our last one. This is from last year. This slide noted that precincts along transit lines are large and growing. Last spring, you approved changes to several of these precincts to address size. As the board will recall, because of the September 9 election in the 11th congressional district, changes to the precincts in the 11th district were postponed because the timing could cause confusion. Hopefully the board can reenact

[01:38:11] those changes that proposed to divide Coates into two precincts and reconfigure Cameron Glenn and Reston One to create a new precinct for a total of three in that area. The change in Marshall Precinct in the 8th Congressional District that moved a portion to Shreve and the creation of Montebello Precinct in Huntington helped to reduce the size of Marshall and Huntington.

[01:38:38] In your packet, you have before you a copy of two precinct lists. The top page of those lists, you don't have that copy? Oh, good. There it is. Hold it up. Okay, you've got your materials now.

[01:38:55] The top page is the list of precincts by size, from largest to smallest in your own district, so they're not all alike. The other is a list of the entire county in the same order regardless of magisterial district. This is for your nightly perusing reading to put you to sleep maybe but it's good information. Most of the very small precincts on those lists are a result as you will recall of the last redistricting and the relatively recent law that requires everyone in a precinct to vote the exact same ballot, wiping out split precincts. The code also requires that

[01:39:35] the size of the precinct must be reduced if over 4,000 people vote in person in the precinct on a presidential election. Because of our robust early voting, there are no precincts in danger of immediate change for that reason. However, there are precincts in need of reduction because the existing facility cannot accommodate many more voters and or cannot meet accessibility requirements available parking and sufficient space for

[01:40:09] locating curbside voting as well as voting room size are sometimes too stretched large precincts can serve voters very well if provisioned adequately with enough parking available a large enough room to accommodate the necessary equipment and the necessary voting stations, curbside voting spaces, and can meet ADA requirements. It's getting harder and harder to find those places. All suggestions you may have

[01:40:43] are appreciated. Also in your packet is a list of requirements for a room that could be used in voting to be including in buildings as they are being approved and built. County staff has a copy of this for their use in reviewing applications. Also included is a copy of a checklist we use in the office to check each year to be sure the location meets or still meets the legal requirements. That kind of boils down for you what the requirements are. Recognizing the increasing cost of continuing to add more and more precincts and the complications. Sometimes I think we're

[01:41:22] running a moving company, we also look at possibilities to consolidate precincts. The code does not allow establishing a precinct over 5,000 voters, so many of our neighboring precincts, those side by each, cannot be combined because adding them together would create a precinct of over 5,000 voters.

[01:41:45] But there are possibilities, and we look forward to working with you about those as well. Finally, thank you to the Board of Supervisors for your unwavering support for safe, secure, accessible elections in Fairfax County.

[01:42:01] We have had visitors from various jurisdictions this year come to see how the office does what it does. And they have recognized that the efficiency of the operation and the exceptional access to voting depends on the support of the governing body.

[01:42:20] Many of them are quite jealous. Thank you very much. I'll be happy to answer questions if I can. Kate, thank you so much for this comprehensive explanation of all the things that went on. I know Supervisor Palczyk has a question.

[01:42:37] Thank you. I'll be brief. Again, this is beautiful. The visuals, the list, absolutely love it. It was funny. When you brought up the confusion in our office, it's interesting to see the map for the early in-person voting. I know at Jim Scott, it was more people thinking, oh, The satellite is open, and it wasn't open yet.

[01:42:55] We do have a problem in several of those, and we have it in this building because we use those as satellites and as a precinct on Election Day. And we've put up signs. We put so many signs up on the Jim Scott Community Center you couldn't see in the building, and that didn't work.

[01:43:12] We're working on it. I think it's a little different. I think it's more if we look at the ability, would it be helpful to expand some of the early in-person voting to match the full in-person voting that's happening at the government center, especially near metro and central areas?

[01:43:30] I think that's just one question to consider. Are there opportunities for expanding the length of in-person? Those facilities have to be available, as you all know, because you have them in your government centers and buildings for 10, 12, or 45 days.

[01:43:52] Certainly, over time, for those of you that have been listening and running the contest of who has the most, you know that they move around kind of every year, and some of it is a function of what goes on in the community.

[01:44:09] But they, too, we have to make judgments on the implication, the access, and the investment. Thank you. Supervisor Sizemore Heiser.

[01:44:25] Thank you. First, I just wanted to say, as someone who participated in one of the many elections in the Braddock district this year, I just wanted to thank you and your team for all the hard work and really how well run it was, the different signage when there's early voting here for the November 4th election and the December 9th election, making it very clear where the different—so just thank you for that hard work.

[01:44:45] I can't imagine the plan that went into the sheer number of elections you've had, and I just wanted to recognize, especially in the Braddock district, I wanted to thank the schools as well for both closing on September 9th for safety reasons for that election, but also when they remained open, making sure that it was clear to have a separate space to vote that was accessible and fulfilled the rules, but also fulfilled student safety needs.

[01:45:10] So I think that was great. The only question I would have is, is there a consideration for the early voting sites to looking at proximity or where people tend to vote early from a certain district as opposed to the ones that are located physically in the district? And I bring this up because I will just say what I...

[01:45:27] I'm sorry. Give me the relationship again. Yeah, so proximity to the district as opposed to physically located in the district or where people tend to vote early in the district. And I'll give you the example I'm thinking of is actually the West Springfield Government Center.

[01:45:44] A lot of Braddock residents vote early at the West Springfield Government Center. So there was a lot of confusion because that wasn't one of the early places. Yeah, but don't tell Mount McLean that because, see, that's how West Springfield wins it every year. It's a little secret you've exposed here.

[01:45:59] It is, so it's right on the edge. It's not a new situation. Yes, that's true. Because it's ballot on demand, in other words, you can go into any satellite and ask for the ballot. The location in the district is not quite so important.

[01:46:21] I think what I was saying is with the early voting for the specials, it wasn't available at the West Springfield Government Center, but for the November 4th it was. So it created a lot of confusion in the voters in Braddock. So that's what I was just wondering if there's, you know. This is a new problem for us.

[01:46:36] Right now we have a problem going on because we don't have an approved satellite. See, those satellite locations you all set in code, and it takes time. And we didn't have time to change any of those in time to do it.

[01:46:52] There's voting going on right now in the Mason Governmental Center, along with a lot of parking lot and building construction, which is not in any of the precincts at all. So those that come upon us very quickly, there's not time for all of us to get it set in ordinance and approved.

[01:47:16] That makes sense. State has to approve those. Thank you for all the work, because this has been an incredible year and a very unprecedented year in elections. So thank you for all that work, too. This topic has created excitement. I have Supervisor Herity and then Bierman. And I heard a lot of the concerns from your residents.

[01:47:33] Some of them used to be my residents. But anyway, so I shared the supervisor's concern. that as i understand there's a policy that says that it that the special election site needs to be in the district and that's why west springfield even though most of braddock votes at west springfield i mean it's right across the street like literally a stone's throw because my office is there um is that our policy or is that it's not yours it's something realizing where we were

[01:48:09] going, we had to make a rule, make some kind of standard to judge how many satellites we're going to open. We have the ability, and you raise an interesting point, should this happen again. I mean, we've had all kinds of specials this year that we never, having won two of them, I appreciate the importance of special elections. But the difficulty is that they don't give us any lead time to do the things that we do now because they have such a complicated situation. But having said that, you raise a really good point that you haven't made,

[01:48:49] but that I'm going to suggest we do, is look at, see if we can review in some cases who's voting at the satellites to figure out how we use those, should this happen again. We don't have that data.

[01:49:05] we do now? Yeah, because I think the best site may not even be in the district. The best site may be outside the district, depending on, and in this case, it probably was, because more of my voters voted Burke Center, I think, than your voters. But it's, or my district voters, I should say. Please, no fighting over citizens here. So I was trying to understand whether that was an Electoral Board Supervisor's policy?

[01:49:35] It was the office because we knew we had a bunch coming, and we were going to have to limit the number on your behalf that we could actually afford to use. We know that you will make up any running in the hole that we might have done this year, so we're not too worried about that because we know how much you appreciate us going above and beyond, but we didn't want to stretch that too far.

[01:50:01] It was a good idea, so I thank you for taking it back and looking back. Okay, I'm going to keep us moving here, okay? I have Bierman, Alcorn, and then Stork. I'll just say we experienced the same thing with the McLean Government Center with respect to the 11th Congressional District race because the McLean Government Center is technically in the 8th Congressional District, so we actually filmed this kind of funny video about how you couldn't come vote in the 11th at the McLean Government Center.

[01:50:32] But I will also say that, admittedly, I'm not actually sure which is the better policy because we definitely had people who lived in the 8th Congressional District who heard about the special election for Congress in Fairfax County and wanted to vote in the 11th Congressional District or thought, hey, wait, there's a special election for Congress, and I always voted McLean, and they're my neighbors who, by the way, are a mile down the road.

[01:51:01] and then the 11th and on and on and on so that's also a consideration in where we decide to place these things i think as a general rule trying to keep the uh location within the district when we have the these these things going on probably works but i also see the counter argument and so it would be worth trying to study not just uh the raw numbers i you know where west springfield unfortunately beat McLean this year, but also where those people are voting from.

[01:51:31] Thank you. Okay, I have Supervisor Alcorn Stork and Herity. Just quickly, the other harmonization issue, or a harmonization issue I wanted to raise was, and you may have it at Mount Vernon Center, but the time of voting.

[01:51:51] So we have a lot of folks, because the government center is open early, we have a lot of folks showing up at North County, just a constant stream, and you may have the same. I shouldn't have let you two sit together in class. So that's, I don't know what you do about it, but it's.

[01:52:11] Well, there's a couple things we need to look at now that we've had a lot of experience and data this year. One is we know times that most people have voted and are voting in our satellites.

[01:52:28] And you will recall that we established one to seven because most people worked downtown or commuted long distances. It was before COVID. And we needed, particularly in the outer parts of Fairfax County, to have them open later so people could get there after work possibly, as well as people who worked different hours.

[01:52:55] We now are seeing traffic patterns change and commuting patterns change and all kinds of patterns changed. And while we're looking at that, we need to look at should we move it back to noon to 6 or 11 to 5, and who does that hurt?

[01:53:15] It's difficult to do much expansion, to make much expansion as an investment that is worth making to keep it open just like 8 to 5. So we have to, again, look at where people, not only where they're doing it, but when they're doing it, when they're coming to the satellites.

[01:53:38] Yeah, thank you. And the other thing I wanted to ask about is we talked about locations and some of the challenges, schools being open sometimes during specials, that kind of thing. What about personnel, election officers? There's the training slide. How are we doing in terms of getting enough people to do this?

[01:53:56] We're doing okay. Okay. There are a lot of people in Fairfax County that are willing to be election officers. We've tested them a lot this year, and so it's getting a little harder because they've been doing it once a week now for a while.

[01:54:15] But we're doing okay. We're always glad to have more because that recycles in and out. And so you can spread the word. We do, but we appreciate any help that you can give us. And let me finish with this, because otherwise you're never going to get anything else done today.

[01:54:34] Tell me a little. We have, particularly aimed at our younger voters, and you have them in your office. Did you know that? They've been delivered. I saw some tentative nods that allow people to scan to register to vote.

[01:54:53] That takes you to the state website. The little teeny ones was ever thus. This one and the one on the back take you to our local website for information. They're in your office. We're distributing them. We ordered a ton of them, and we're distributing them in the high schools and in facilities where we find young people as well and the libraries.

[01:55:18] That didn't come out right, did it? No laughing, Pat. So we have a lot of these, and we hope you will, in fact, help distribute them as well. Anything else? Oh, yeah. Supervisor Stork and Harrity, quickly, please.

[01:55:35] I just truly wanted to thank you all for the presentation. I think it was very, very helpful, and I would note, and I'm excited to note, that we had 2% more voters than four years ago. We had 3% more active voters than four years ago, and we had 10% more registered voters than four years ago.

[01:55:55] Those are all extraordinary numbers that I'm deeply proud that I can represent, that we do believe in voting. We're getting more folks out to the polls. And more importantly, you all have made that work extraordinarily smoothly, considering all the challenges that you had.

[01:56:11] I know that's really the core of that is the staff that you have and the work that they do. Don't thank me. I just tell you. It's all these people that do it. Come on. I'm pointing at them because I know who gets this work done. And I know that hopefully we're always supportive of that, and particularly the Mount Vernon Governmental Center.

[01:56:29] We have lots of interactions with them. Really, most of this year we've spent that time. So it's one that I'm very supportive of and one that I'm very thankful for. And the only other thing I would add is if there's some way we can find a way to communicate the differences in the hours and days between the three different, particularly in the early voting side, the three different stations, that would be appreciative.

[01:56:55] And I would urge you all, and maybe you do internal mini group, but some sort of mini focus group on how you're presenting the information in the communications, whether it's a website or the piece of information. Because I know that we're never going to stop folks thinking that, oh, my gosh, we're supposed to be able to vote here.

[01:57:14] And I'm saying, no, it's the county government center. I know we're never going to ultimately eliminate that. But if we can reduce it just a little bit more, my staff especially would be appreciative. We're working on it. Thank you. We would rather not get all those phone calls either.

[01:57:31] Thank you. Thank you very much. Supervisor Herody. Yeah, and I'll echo the thanks in the first part of your comments for the interaction because, you know, it's a team game with the police department and just trying to keep as many spaces clear. And I don't go to a polling place without walking in and thanking the people that are there and working because it does start our last meeting.

[01:57:55] I went to Oakmark for a quick swim, and they were up to – there were five election workers there, and there had been five voters there by that time. But anyway, went in and thanked them for the tremendous job they're doing on my district, not my precinct. But it's incredible that we get them, and we've got to keep getting them and training them.

[01:58:14] My question real quick – and this brought back something that had come up in our office before. You said when you get the postcards back, it gives you – No postcards, just the mailer. The mailer. Just the yellow mailer. What action do you take when you get those back?

[01:58:32] Well, because they've come back undeliverable and they are registered voters, we can contact that address if we don't hear back from them. We also put them then on the inactive voter list where they stay if they don't vote for, I guess it's two federal elections, until their registration is canceled.

[01:58:57] So that starts the situation that said, well, let me put it this way. All of us have a friend who say, I keep getting stuff for my daughter who doesn't live here anymore.

[01:59:13] And she's registered to vote, and you keep sending her stuff. And I finally said to a friend one day, so when you get that stuff, what do you do with it? And he said, well, we throw it away. And I said, well, how am I supposed to know she moved? And that's the kind of thing that fits.

[01:59:28] So it does help us. So they go on inactive and just don't get mailed anymore? They become inactive voters, and in a certain period of time, their registration expires. Because I had a landlord, and this was an old, I'll take it up separately, tried to say this person doesn't live here anymore and was told there's nothing you can do about it, and so that seemed to be announced.

[01:59:50] We need to, there's a process, a legal process that you can't, just because you don't want me voting, you can't say I don't live here anymore. So it's to avoid that. So we can see how passionate we are about voting.

[02:00:07] I want to thank everybody that's here with you, supporting you, Kate. And can they come down and have a picture with all you folks in whose offices they inhabit? Absolutely. That would be great. Come on down. Come on down, y'all. Price is right.

[02:00:25] Price is right.

[02:00:30] All right.

[02:02:41] Next on our agenda is a report on the General Assembly activities. And for this, I will turn to Supervisor Jimenez, the chair of our legislative committee. Well, thank you so much, Madam Chair. the Legislative Committee met on Friday, January 23rd, and Friday, January 30th. As of Sunday, February 1st, 2,612 bills and resolutions have been introduced in the 2026 General Assembly.

[02:03:07] I want to thank my colleagues for the ongoing productive conversations that we have and will continue to have. Our focus on communication, collaboration, and partnership, paired with the dedication of our legislative team, is delivering real wins for the residents of Fairfax County.

[02:03:24] The committee's position on specific bills are outlined in the memo and the tracking chart included in the committee report. A key area of focus this session will be the 2024-2026 biennium budget. The county continues to advocate for increased K-12 funding as well as increased funding for a variety of human service programs and services, including public safety, environmental initiatives, and transportation, among others.

[02:03:51] Included in the committee's report, attachments are several handouts on local impacts to the county from the governor's budget and tax changes. Legislative staff will provide additional updates as the budget process moves forward. A wide variety of bills have been introduced this session, including numerous bills that would impact the county's revenue change and operations and the redistricting and the restriction of the county's land use authority.

[02:04:21] Notably, the increasing housing continues to be a top priority for state legislators, with hundreds of bills being introduced in the General Assembly and intended to spur new development and retain affordable stock housing. We are grateful to the county staff that has been working tirelessly to evaluate and analyze impacts to the county process and efforts to ensure that the county addresses the housing crisis.

[02:04:44] One specific piece of legislation I would like to highlight is an initiative led by Delegate Paul Krizak that would give residents and local government the first opportunity to purchase manufactured home parks. If an owner decides to sell, this approach helps preserve existing affordable housing options, prevent sudden rate hikes, and ensure all residents are protected under the same tenant protection laws.

[02:05:09] As we continue important conversations about creating more housing, we also cannot lose sight of the need to support and protect the housing that already exists. A right of first refusal is clear, actionable win we can deliver to residents as part of our broader efforts to address Fairfax County's housing crisis.

[02:05:29] Over the last two weeks, legislative staff has presented a strategy to ensure that the county has a seat at the table, as well as a voice in the housing discussion. Working collaboratively across departments, we have adopted a countywide approach that will allow us to identify legislation that positively supports our work while proactively engaging with legislators to mitigate negative impacts on local authority, land use, and other critical issues.

[02:05:56] At our meeting last Friday, Vice Chairman Supervisor Smith said it best, instead of just opposing legislation, we need to share the testimony we hear every day from our residents and what we see on the ground because we know what works best for our communities.

[02:06:14] A one-size-fits-all approach does not work here in Fairfax County. A new strategy reflecting Fairfax as a county of yes is what we need to effectively influence legislation and ensure meaningful solutions for our residents helping to address and ultimately end the housing crisis. Additionally, staff presented the committee with an overview in comparison of transportation funding bills. A handout comparing these bills is including for your reference. These are significant pieces of legislation that will shape the future of our regional transit and local transit service, which will impact residents' ability to connect

[02:06:54] to job centers, traffic congestion, our environment, and infrastructure. Staff has brought many bills in addition to these topics already discussed relating to taxation, land use, K-12 education, and health and human services. Legislative staff will continue to provide updates to the board as they work on these issues in Richmond.

[02:07:14] The next legislative committee meeting is scheduled for Friday, February 13th at 4 p.m. in Conference Room 11. Just for awareness, there will be no meeting this Friday, as some of us will be in Richmond for VACO. As a reminder, we are holding our annual reception in Richmond again this year, which will provide an opportunity for some productive conversations with our delegation.

[02:07:36] Proceeding the reception, the General Assembly will introduce a resolution in memoriam to honor Claudia Arco, who served as Fairfax County's Legislative Director for many years. These events will take place on Wednesday, February 19, 2026, and the reception will begin at 530 at the Virginia Association of Counties. And with that, Madam Chairwoman, I move that the Board adopt the Legislative Committee Report No. 1. Second. The motion's been made and seconded.

[02:08:06] Any further discussion on the motion? Supervisor Alcorn? Yeah, I just want to thank Supervisor Jimenez for all the work on the Legislative Committee and everything. I was Richmond yesterday for transit day and there is a lot of work going on to try to get some dedicated transit funding and I just remind everybody that this is really important for us not just for our Metro contributions but also VRE for connector and frankly maybe just maybe creating the opportunity to move some of

[02:08:46] of these expenses off the real estate tax and onto a dedicated tax. So we'll see, but I'm moderately hopeful that we'll be able to get the General Assembly to help us with that this year. Thank you. Thank you. Supervisor Jimenez. Thank you, Madam Chair.

[02:09:02] And real quick, one thing I do want to highlight is I want to say thank you to all of you. You've all been so great in calling, and even if we don't agree on all the issues, but you have called, we've had a conversation. We may have not always agreed, but we do have the conversation. I think that that's the most important part.

[02:09:18] The worst thing that can happen is a lack of breakdown of communication, even if we don't agree, because if we're not talking, we don't know what's happening. And I don't know what's happening. Thus, Jennifer, our legislative director, doesn't know what's happening. So it's increasingly important. You know, I don't need to go to Richmond every time with all of you.

[02:09:35] But just letting me know that you're there and you're working on, for example, transit issues is just really helpful. And whether it's a conversation with you, Supervisor Alcorn or Supervisor Bierman or so many of you, I just want to say thank you for calling and for letting me know kind of where your interests lie, what you're doing, that you're in Richmond, that you want to be in Richmond.

[02:09:56] And that will extend further as the year moves forward to federal lobbying as well, because we do want to be on the Hill. We want to make sure that we're talking with our delegation and that they know what's going on. And we will be reaching out to every single one of you for different days.

[02:10:12] So thank you so much for being great colleagues. Thank you. Seeing no further discussion, all those in favor of the motion say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Herity, nay. Any abstentions? That motion carries with Supervisor Herity stating nay. Thank you. Next on the agenda is board matters, and they've been compiled digitally, and we will go alphabetically by district.

[02:10:36] I'm going to turn the gavel over to Supervisor Palczyk, so I may read the chairman's board matters first. Madam Vice Chair, if you would like to read the chairman's board matters. I move to approve without objection the proclamation request listed in this document to be presented inside or outside of the boardroom as appropriate.

[02:10:56] Resolution to recognize Siva Trucks Foundation's 10th anniversary. A proclamation jointly with Supervisor Stork to recognize rare disease day February 28. A proclamation with Supervisor Smith Palchik Seismar Heiser recognizing women's history month in March.

[02:11:13] Proclamation with Supervisor Stork, recognizing Alternative Dispute Resolution Month in March. A proclamation with Supervisor Sizemore Heiser, recognizing Developmental Disabilities Inclusion Month in March. Proclamation to recognize Flood Awareness Week, March 9th through 14th.

[02:11:32] Proclamation with Supervisor Palczyk to recognize Child Abuse Prevention Month in April. A proclamation jointly with Supervisor Palczyk, Lusk, Sizemore Heiser, to recognize Fair Housing Month in April. And jointly with Supervisor Sizemore Heiser, recognized Community Development Week, April 6th through 10th.

[02:11:51] Without objection, so moved. Okay, next is a board matter for endorsement of a letter to Secretary Chenery, Secretary Bulova, and Secretary Donahue regarding Governor Banberger's executive order to study, among other things, improvements to VDOT.

[02:12:10] Fairfax County has been working with industry and community to improve and streamline the development process in order to, among other things, address the critical affordable housing shortage that we are experiencing. Governor Spanberger issued an executive order to establish the Commission on Unlocking Housing Production, directing the Secretary of Commerce and Trade, the Secretary of Natural and Historic Resources, and the Secretary of Transportation to study this matter, as she has expressed a desire to make it easier to build much-needed and necessary housing throughout the Commonwealth to tackle our affordability issues.

[02:12:44] Included in this study is VDOT. VDOT plays a critical role in nearly all housing projects. However, VDOT processes can be long and inconsistent, leading to cost overruns and delays for private and public developments. We have heard these concerns from the members of the Chairman's Roundtable of Development, community representatives from the Northern Virginia Building Industry Association and from individuals on specific projects.

[02:13:13] Therefore, I move that the Board authorize me, meaning Chairman McKay, to send the attached letter to Secretary Chenery, Secretary Bulova, and Secretary Donahue, expressing our strong support for their effort, particularly as it relates to VDOT, requesting that it be conducted as expeditiously as possible, and offering our assistance in whatever way would be most helpful. So motion. I do have a second. I will also add to that second. Do you have discussion on this, Madam? Just that the letter is included with the board, Madam. I see Supervisor Bierman. Yeah, I'm very happy that we're sending this letter. I think it builds on the effort that

[02:13:52] we were trying to do with HB 883. I think we've all worked on housing developments or on housing projects where we found that VDOT has come in at different times with different answers, and it's slowed certain things up. I think there are added benefits to this, that not only by looking at it through the housing lens, we will also find efficiencies and more opportunities for everything else that VDOT does. I've got stories to tell you about crosswalks that are taking too long to put in, but this is a real opportunity to try with the new administration to look a little

[02:14:29] more closely at these things to make changes, and I think it's something that the whole board is generally unanimously supportive of, so I'm happy that we're sending this letter and keeping the conversation going. Thank you, Mr. Bierman, and I will quote a conversation I had. VDOT should not be the impediment to building housing and having economic development in the county.

[02:14:52] Did you want to add something, Madam Heiser? I think this is a great combination to go along with the legislative package, and it's clear that the General Assembly is focusing on streamlining processes and expanding homeownerships in the General Assembly, so I think this is a good combination, because we can't streamline the processes if we don't address potentially places that VDOT may be impediments to that streamlining.

[02:15:14] Thank you. Supervisor Herity. Interesting, the letter already has the vote in here, because it says unanimous. Anyway, I plan to support the letter. My only comment is I think we need to take this same kind of focus and look at our own processes, not just point at the state and what they're doing.

[02:15:38] I mean, you know, my current favorite example is, you know, back when Fairlakes was done, it was 12 sheets. The entire plan roll for Fairlakes was 12 sheets. Now many buildings have 12 sheets in the plan roll for landscaping, And every one of those sheets has to be made.

[02:16:01] It's got to be reviewed. It's got to be corrected. It's got to be reviewed again. So I completely support. I think we need to. Mr. Herity, I'm sure you recall that the chairman did have a board matter on economic development on housing and has directed.

[02:16:17] And we know that the county executive and deputy county executive Miller and her team have been working on that. And I expect we will be seeing more soon. We don't have an update yet. I don't know if the county executive wants to give any further update on that progress. I know those of us who speak to industry know that they have been reached out to.

[02:16:37] The update will come, in my view, sometime in June, if not earlier. It's going to be part and parcel of the whole of the other board matter that we're going to be discussing later today. So it's coming. Thank you.

[02:16:52] Supervisor Beerman, then I'll call the vote. Yeah, I'll note that I'd like it before June, and I'll just put my voice on that, it should happen before June. The board matter was last year in September and August. But I'll also note, Supervisor Herity, as you know, you sit on the audit committee with me, and we're about to do an audit of our own internal processes around FCDOT, focused on active transportation projects, which is your sidewalks, but the same things that we can learn about how to build sidewalks faster, we could learn about how to potentially move development plans faster, how to add more certainty to that. So I think we are actually already doing this work, and we're trying to

[02:17:29] build on what we learn and try to make some change here. So thank you, and I'm sorry that it was assumed that you would vote for this, but I'm glad you're voting for it. Thank you. Excellent. Well, with that, seeing no further discussion, I will go ahead and call for the vote. All those in favor, please say aye. Aye. All those opposed, any abstentions? That does passed unanimously. Unfortunately, the chairman unable to be with us today. From all members' presence, we all feel the pain. With that, Madam Vice Chair. Next is a Length of Service Awards

[02:18:08] Program Review. The Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department is nationally and internationally recognized as one of the preeminent public safety organizations that exist. The career staff and leadership at the FRD are an integral reason for this recognition. So too are the volunteers who dedicate their time serving our community when they're needed most. This is especially true when many of us were at home during the most recent winter storm. The career and volunteer staff at the FRD continued to respond to calls for service, keeping our residents safe. Specific to our volunteers, while they are not paid wages akin to our career FRD staff, they are able to participate

[02:18:44] in the Length of Service Award Program, LOSAP. The LOSAP is a long-term incentive program used across the United States to assist communities in recruiting, retaining, and rewarding volunteer firefighters and emergency medical services personnel. The amount of the LOSAP benefit is directly related to the number of years of service credit earned by the volunteer. To earn a year of credit, a volunteer must perform 240 hours of operational service, accomplish a minimum amount of training, and be certified to some advanced level ranging from ambulance driver to certified Chief Officer. A member becomes vested in the program after earning 5 years of credit and can

[02:19:23] earn a maximum of 30 years of credit. Once vested, a member receives a monthly benefit of $10 for every year of credit earned when they turn 65, up to a maximum of $300 per month for 30 years of service. The benefit is paid until death. However, once payments begin, it is guaranteed for a minimum of 10 years. LOSAP has proven to be a reliable retention tool, and we continue to experience challenges in retaining quality volunteers. I believe it is appropriate for the county to review our program and how competitive it is to surrounding jurisdictions. Therefore, I move that the county executive and appropriate county agencies provide a not-in-package NIP

[02:20:02] memorandum to the Board of Supervisors that outlines Fairfax County's low sap benefits and its competitiveness to surrounding jurisdictions, as well as potential options to better position our program to our regional neighbors. The NIP should explore but not be limited to the age at which volunteers can access these funds and the amount at which it's paid out.

[02:20:23] Second, Supervisor Herity, I will join that second. Any further discussion? All right, with that, we will take the vote. All those in favor, please say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Any abstentions? And that passes unanimously again with the chairman away today.

[02:20:40] Thank you. Resolution recognizing Fairfax County native and adaptive boxing champion Claudia Palacios. Palacios. Palacios. Thank you. Fairfax County is proud of residents whose dedication, resilience, and achievements bring distinction to our community.

[02:20:58] Claudia Palacios, a Fairfax County native and adaptive boxer, recently made history as one of the two U.S. athletes to win an international adaptive boxing championship in Spain, competing against fighters from France and the Czech Republic. This marked the first time U.S. adaptive boxers traveled internationally for a championship, showcasing Palacios' exceptional skill, discipline, and perseverance.

[02:21:24] Palacios trained at the DPI Adaptive Boxing Club in Fairfax County, a program that empowers athletes with disabilities through adaptive sports. Her victory not only reflects personal excellence, but also advances the growth of adaptive boxing and inspires other athletes in our community.

[02:21:43] Therefore, I move that staff prepare a resolution recognizing Claudia Palacios for her historic international championship and the pride she has brought to Fairfax County. This will be presented inside or outside the boardroom at a future date. I think we can do this without objection. Without objection is fine.

[02:21:58] All right. Excellent. Wonderful to hear about Ms. Palacios. With that, Madam Vice Chair again. Yes, we're going. volunteer snow removal program. Core to Fairfax County's mission is our One Fairfax policy, which is aimed at affording all our residents the necessary resources and services to lead fruitful and fulfilling lives. The recent winter storm that paralyzed our region illuminated that there are efforts we as a community could undertake in service to our neighbors, particularly around snow removal. Many of us grabbed our shovels and cleared our driveways,

[02:22:34] cars, sidewalks, and may have even assisted our neighbors during and in the days that followed the storm. However, there are neighbors in our community who, for one reason or another, were unable to clear the snow from their properties, presenting additional challenges. Our neighbors who may be disabled, homebound, or seniors experienced this storm in a more acute manner given the challenge snow removal presents to them specifically. Therefore, I move that we requests the county executive and appropriate county staff work with volunteer Fairfax to develop a program that partners volunteers with individuals who may be disabled, homebound,

[02:23:11] or senior to assist in snow removal from their property. Considerations, precautions, and protocols should be established to safeguard both property owners and volunteers. I also move, recognizing that such a program may not be feasible for the rest of this winter season, that the concepts and plans of such a program were presented to the Board via a not-in-packaged NIP memorandum no more than four months from today.

[02:23:37] This should also include a review of other jurisdictions of Virginia that may have similar programs. Madam Chair, a motion to have a second? Second. Second, multiply seconded. Let me turn to discussion. I don't have anything.

[02:23:54] Supervisor Alcorn and Supervisor Stork. Yeah, thank you. Just very quickly, we had a lot of discussion in my office with staff about this, and probably others did too. As the county executive looks at this, there are also a number of very local initiatives and volunteer efforts underway, so I just want to make sure that some of those that are private and already existing be included.

[02:24:17] I think each of our offices might have information that we could provide you as you do this, so thank you. Thank you, Mr. Alcorn. Mr. Stork, Supervisor Stork. Thank you. I met with Boy Scout Troop 993 last night. They were putting together packages for the Kennedy Shelter because of the overwhelming need that's there.

[02:24:38] Kennedy Shelter has been at capacity, and this provides that additional support. But I spoke with them, and there are a number of scouts here who are willing and open to doing this kind of help. And I think it's a great way, as a former Boy Scout, I think it's a great way to provide community service, as well as we have high schools with lots of kids who need community service, and I guess even middle school possibly.

[02:24:59] So those are other opportunities, and I look forward to sharing those with the county executive. Thank you. Supervisor Herity. Yeah, I mean, just real briefly, I think the desire to help is there, just the coordination and getting people there. I know one of our crossing guards put out a call because the kids weren't going to be able, and the community responds.

[02:25:22] But it's just having something systematic so that people know where to go and what to do. Thank you. Supervisor Jimenez. And thank you so much. And, yes, you know, Mason District has the most residents with disabilities as well as we have the most senior residents in the county.

[02:25:40] And so, you know, this is I want to say thank you to the chairman and his staff. I think this is great, something to look at. Obviously, it may not happen right away, but it's important to start getting ready here. And obviously, as I've mentioned earlier, communication is key. There are so many groups, as Supervisor Stork and Herity mentioned, that are willing to help, that want to help, that they're out there.

[02:25:58] Now we just need to coordinate these group efforts and make sure that our residents are the ones who are able to benefit from that. Thank you. Thank you, Supervisor Jimenez. I have Supervisor Seismar Heiser. Thank you. It's funny. I think all of us had these conversations in our offices. I know we did as well with my team.

[02:26:16] I won't repeat what people have said. I agree with all of it. The only suggestion I might add to that is that as we're building this out, not just look for those who already volunteer, but really try to partner with those to say, hey, this is another idea for you to build those volunteer bases as well, I think would be helpful. But this is great. Thank you. I'm happy to support it.

[02:26:32] Thank you. And I will add one comment before we take the vote. And again, a lot of what was said. And two groups I would just make sure we work with would be Neighborhood Community Services, who both are helping expand the Aging and Network Village Network program, Aging and Place Village Network, as well as the teen programs, and then Department of Family Services, who I believe the chair of Volunteer Fairfax may be the director of, so I'm sure there will be discussion there.

[02:27:01] But great efforts. With that, seeing no further comments. Schools is on the list, I assume, too. I mean, schools would be one of the big ones that should be involved in this because... Exactly, thank you. And I know they did put out a call as well for help. So with that, seeing no further comment, all those in favor, please say aye. Aye. Any opposed, any abstentions?

[02:27:25] The vote passes again unanimously with the chairman away today. Thank you very much. Okay, now we're moving on with board matters. I don't have any today, so I'm turning to Supervisor Sizemore Heiser. Thank you, Madam Vice Chairman. For over 30 years, the Braddock District Supervisor has held a ceremony to honor the residents and organizations in our district who have committed their time and their resources to making our community a better place to live, work, and play.

[02:27:54] Typically, this event takes place in December, but my office placed it on hold until we had a new supervisor in place, for which I'm very grateful. I'm excited to host the next Best of Braddock Awards ceremony and reception on Wednesday, March 4th, 2026, and I invite all of my colleagues in the broader community to come join us. The evening will start with the reception, followed by the awards ceremony to recognize and celebrate our active and dedicated community members.

[02:28:19] Therefore, Madam Vice Chairman, I move without objection that the Office of Public Affairs promote this event to the community through the county's communication channels. Without objection, it's so ordered. Thank you. Thank you. Next is Supervisor Bierman.

[02:28:36] Thank you, Madam Chairman. One board matter, which is regarding FHWA efforts to expedite replacement of the American Legion Memorial Bridge. Background. The Federal Highway Administration has recently issued a request for information to solicit input on alternative project delivery methods, innovative contracting approaches, and other strategies that could help expedite the replacement of the American Legion Memorial Bridge. Comments are to be received by February 9th, 2026th, which is next Monday. This effort reflects the regional and national importance of the bridge and the need for forward-looking approaches to advance its timely replacement. The American

[02:29:15] Legion Bridge is a critical transportation link connecting Fairfax County, Virginia, and Montgomery County, Maryland, two of the region's most populous counties. The bridge plays a vital role in supporting regional mobility, freight movement, and economic activity in the National Capital Region. Now more than 60 years old, the bridge faces significant capacity, operational, and safety challenges that are expected to intensify as regional travel demands continue to increase. Fairfax County has long recognized the congestion and operational challenges at the American Legion and Memorial Bridge, and other Potomac River crossings represent some of the most significant transportation challenges facing the region.

[02:29:51] Replacement of the bridge presents an opportunity not only to bring this critical asset into a state of good repair, but also to improve safety, support new transit connections between Virginia and Maryland, enhance transportation demand management strategies, and expand bicycle and pedestrian connectivity across the Potomac River.

[02:30:08] Therefore, I move that the Board authorize the Chairman to transmit the attached letter to the U.S. Secretary of Transportation, expressing the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors' support for FHWA's efforts to expedite the replacement of the American Legion Memorial Bridge and encouraging continued coordination with Virginia, Maryland, and regional partners as FHWA evaluates next steps.

[02:30:28] I will second that along with Supervisor Palchek. Discussion on the motion? I was hoping I would get a lot of seconds. This one's really important. We need a new American Legion Bridge. We need to figure this out. this is a huge issue for my district. It's a huge issue for the Providence district. It's a huge issue for 100 mil district. It's a huge issue for a lot of districts. This is a huge issue for the Commonwealth of Virginia. Um, and, and we need to figure this one out. So, um, I support sending this letter. I want to thank, uh, FC.staff, um, for their, their work on this. Um, this makes perfect sense to me. Of course it makes perfect sense to me. I introduced it, but I'm glad to have,

[02:31:05] uh the support of of the rest of you i hope okay seeing no further discussion all those in favor of the motion please say aye aye any abstentions okay i forgot what the notice um that motion carries um uh yeah um no more board matters for me i do have some comments on snow but i'm gonna let uh supervisor harry tee up that one that discussion uh down the line so um and i'm i'm happy about what we the discussion we just had about snow removal so thank you thank you um I'm going to turn back to Supervisor Sizemore Heiser for a minute.

[02:31:40] Thank you. I appreciate it. And I didn't have a chance to just informally introduce. I wanted to introduce Braddock District's new intern, Ethan Mitchell, who's with us today. He was born and raised in the Braddock District and attended Terra Central Elementary School and Robinson Secondary School before moving to France to finish his high school.

[02:31:59] He's currently a student at George Mason's University of Char School of Policy and Government, where he is one of only 20 students selected for prestigious Global Politics Fellows Program. This fall, Ethan worked as a congressional intern in Gene Walkinshaw's office where he gained valuable insight into the inner workings of Congress and the federal government.

[02:32:18] So I'm very excited to welcome Ethan as an intern and welcome him to Braddock District's team where he'll continue to serve our community with the same dedication, passion, and energy that he's shown throughout his work. So please join me in welcoming Ethan Mitchell to my office. Thank you. Next up is Supervisor Lusk.

[02:32:39] Thank you, Madam Chairman. On June 10th, 2025, the Board directed staff to evaluate an amendment to the comprehensive plan for tax map parcels 91-3, double circle 8, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5A, and tax map parcels 91-3, double circle 8, A and B.

[02:33:01] The nominator has advised county staff that they no longer wish to pursue this plan amendment and are requesting that it be withdrawn. I therefore move the Board of Supervisors direct staff to amend the 2025 Conference of Plan Amendment Work Program to remove proposed site-specific plan amendment SSPA-2025-4-3RH at the nominator's request.

[02:33:27] I'll second that motion along with Supervisor Harrity. Any discussion on the motion? All those in favor say aye. Aye. Anyone opposed? Any abstention? That motion carries. Thank you very much. Second, Madam Chairman, on June 10, 2025, the Board directed staff to evaluate an amendment to the Comprehensive Plan for tax map parcels 82-3, double circle 4, 1B, and 2B, adjacent properties located at 6404 Telegraph Road and 8408 Highland Drive.

[02:34:01] The site is planned and developed for commercial use, and the nominators requested redevelopment to single-family residential use. The board authorized this as a Tier 3 item on the Conference of Plan Amendment work plan in June of 2025. Since that time, the nominator has continued to refine its development concept, and community engagement has begun on this and two additional plan amendments authorized along the Telegraph Road corridor. Staff from the Department of Planning and Development advise that given the timing, it's appropriate to begin formal work on this proposed plan amendment.

[02:34:36] Madam Chairman, I therefore move that the Board direct staff to amend the 2025 Conference of Plan work plan to reprioritize the review of site-specific plan amendment SSPA 2025-4-4RH as a Tier 2 item. Staff is directed to consider a plan amendment for tax map parcels 82-3, double circle 4, 1B, and 2B for single-family detached residential use with specific attention given to the character, density, and scale of the new development, appropriate transitions

[02:35:13] and buffering to adjacent residential properties, the potential for marine clay soils, on-site, pedestrian and vehicular access, and or appropriate roadway improvements, and on-site amenities to serve new residents. This motion should not be construed as a favorable recommendation of the planned nomination by the Board and does not prejudice the substantive review of this amendment.

[02:35:35] So move, Madam Chairman. I'll second that amendment, but I just want to confirm the two addresses, that it's 6404 Telegraph Road and 6408 Highland Drive? That is correct. Okay, thank you. Any discussion on the motion? Seeing and hearing none.

[02:35:51] All those in favor of the motion, please say aye. Aye. Anyone opposed? Any abstentions? That motion carries. Supervisor Lusk? And then, Madam Chairman, I just wanted to acknowledge the fire department's efforts with the fire that occurred in my district. just a few days ago it was kind of significant because it was a townhome fire on an end unit and it then led to a fire of a second unit right adjacent to it what the fire department had to do was to close off the natural gas line to the row of townhome units there were seven units in total

[02:36:25] that got impacted but just want to acknowledge that there was no loss of life whether on the citizen side or on our fire protection side, and just acknowledging, you know, we have to be aware, you know, when these sorts of events happen, and just grateful for the men and women who serve our community in the fire department. Thank you so very much. Thank you. Supervisor Alcorn. Thank you.

[02:36:51] One board matter, one quick announcement. Let me do the announcement first. There is a public hearing scheduled this afternoon, and just an intent, so if anybody is thinking about testifying, please do not show up or call in because it's going to be deferred. I'll be making a motion on that. And that's the Comstock Reston Station Holdings LC sign plan, special exception. So anyway, that will be deferred until March 3rd, later this afternoon, if the board passes my motion. The board matter relates to Fairfax County comments on Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authorities proposed

[02:37:28] FY 2027 operating budget and the FY 27 through 32 capital improvement program. On January 20, 2026, the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority, also known as WMATA, announced the public comment period for the general manager's proposed FY 27 operating budget and the FY 27 through 32 CIP. Comments will be received through February 10, 2026.

[02:37:56] WMATA's proposed FY27 operating budget totals $2.614 billion, a 2% increase from FY2026, and complies again with the mandatory 3% cap. It includes targeted improvements to metro rail service, proposes refinements to the Better Bus Network, and maintains metro access services throughout Fairfax County.

[02:38:19] In terms of the capital budget, the proposed FY27-32 CIP includes two scenarios. First, an $11.3 billion six-year proposed capital program that is constrained and assumes no new regional investment.

[02:38:34] And two, a $15.8 billion six-year scenario that includes additional regional investment, and that's $460 million annually indexed and bonded, in alignment with the DMV MOVE's recommendation to increase the capital program.

[02:38:50] The proposed CIP prioritizes the state of good repair backlog and advances programs already underway, including the procurement of 8,000 series rail cars, as well as the rail modernization program, which focuses on investments in communications-based train control, also known as CBTC.

[02:39:11] All these investments are critical to Metro Rail's reliability and capacity. Fairfax County is working collaboratively with Northern Virginia jurisdictions, the Commonwealth, the District of Columbia, Maryland, and regional partners to identify and secure sustainable funding for WMATA's operations and long-term capital needs.

[02:39:29] These collaborations are driven by two recent initiatives, Virginia's SJ28, and the work undertaken by Northern Virginia, the District of Columbia, and Maryland through DMV moves. The board usually provides comments on the WMATA budget via a board item. However, given the limited amount of time before the public comment period ends, staff has worked with my office to prepare the attached letter, which has been distributed to everybody, which outlines in more detail the Board's perspective on the proposed budgets and the long-term viability of WMATA's operating and capital budgets. Therefore, Mr. Chairman, I move that the Board of Supervisors approve the attached letter that provides comments on WMATA's proposed

[02:40:09] FY27 operating budget and FY27-32 capital improvement program. So move. I'll second that along with Supervisors Jimenez, Palchek, and Sizemore Heiser. Any discussion on the motion? No, Supervisor.

[02:40:25] Just very briefly want to thank Supervisor Alcorn and especially all of our staff who worked on this so quickly. I want to especially thank you and highlight the Better Bus Network, both the improvements that are underway, and I was pleased to see that several of our high-frequency, high-use lines here in Fairfax County and through the busiest quarters, we'll be getting increased frequency.

[02:40:49] To me, that's the number one way we can help increase access across our community, especially where there's not access to Metro Rail. So very excited to see that, especially in light of some minor cuts happening to our local network.

[02:41:04] I think looking regionally at where we can increase capacity will be extremely helpful moving forward. So thank you again, and very happy to support this. Madam Chair, I appreciate that comment very much. Yeah, it's interesting.

[02:41:21] System-wide, with the Better Bus implementation, we've actually seen a slight decline in ridership as members of the public adjust to some of the new schedules and the new routes. But it has continued to come back from the implementation.

[02:41:39] And we expect system-wide for bus ridership to exceed even last year's ridership. So, thank you. Thank you. Seeing no further discussion, all those in favor of the motion, please say aye. Aye. Anyone opposed? Any abstentions? That motion carries.

[02:41:55] All good. Supervisor Alcoyne? Okay. Supervisor Jimenez. Thank you, Madam Chair. And I have one board matter, one quick announcement. Pending special exception amendment, application SEA-95-M-077-02 is a request to amend the previous approval which allowed the retail component of a warehouse use to occupy 60 percent of the gross floor area. This request is to amend the development conditions to permit by right uses in the existing building of any square footage provided. The previously approved retail warehouse

[02:42:31] ratio of the warehouse use is maintained. The staff report has been published for this application and staff is recommending approval, having raised no issues during the review of this application. The application is scheduled for public hearing before the Planning Commission on February 11, 2026.

[02:42:48] Therefore, Madam Chair, I move that the Board authorize an expedite board date for SEA-95-M-077-02 and schedule a public hearing before the Board of Supervisors for March 3, 2026.

[02:43:04] As always, approval for this motion shall in no way prejudice or affect any ongoing staff review and should not be construed as support for the application by the board. I'll second that motion. Any discussion on the motion? Seeing and hearing none. All those in favor, say aye.

[02:43:20] Aye. Anyone opposed? Any abstention? That motion carries. And I have a quick announcement. I'm really excited about this one. It's our second annual Mason District Health Fair. I got to tell you, last year we had 800 people attend. And real quick, before I get into the actual language, access.

[02:43:39] Access is how we get folks to attend. We have worked, my staff has worked extremely hard to make sure that we have buses coming from Fairmont Garden, from Colmore, from our senior centers. The resources that the county provides are needed, they're wanted, they're used, but we've got to make sure that folks have the accessibility to actually even learn about the resources that the county provides.

[02:44:05] With that being said, the health fair will take place at the St. James Lee Community Center on Saturday, February 7th, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. We are partnering with a variety of community groups, organizations, and county departments to provide valuable health-related information services and resources for our community.

[02:44:24] Services will include, but are limited to vaccine appointment registration and information, Medicaid enrollment assistance, hearing and vision screenings. I'm going to stop there for a second. Last year, I did a hearing screening, and I got to tell you, it was, you know, it was great to learn that my hearing's okay after going to 40 concerts last year.

[02:44:45] So, you know, we're moving forward. We have blood pressure screening, substance abuse prevention trainings and resources and more. We're very excited about this event. We hope to see all of you there. Real quick, one quick shout out. When I went to the last Justice High School men's boys basketball game, they said, what can we do for you, supervisor?

[02:45:05] or how can we work more with our community? And I said, you guys want to volunteer at the health fair? Every single one of those students stood up and said, we're going to do it. We're going to volunteer. They stood up to help their community. So I just wanted to point out and thank the men's junior varsity and varsity team for stepping up, willing to support their community and be helpful.

[02:45:26] I think that's just great to see these students, you know, saying, hey, we want to, at this age, at this level of our lives, we want to give back to the community. So that's so important. Looking forward to this event, and thank you so much. Thank you. Supervisor Stork. Thank you, Madam Vice Chair.

[02:45:42] I have several items. First and foremost, I want to proclaim 2026 as the year of the new space economy, and I want to recognize the inaugural Space Next conference hosted in Fairfax County, February 18th through 20th, 2026.

[02:46:00] The global space economy is entering a new phase of growth marked by rapid advances in commercial space activity and space services, enabling technologies, and the public-private collaboration. Once confined primarily to government programs, space is now a critical driver of innovation, investment, workforce development, and national competitiveness.

[02:46:21] In alignment with this global momentum, Fairbanks County will host Space Next, an inaugural global conference convening leaders shaped by the future of the new space economy from February 18th to 20th, 2026 at Capital One Hall in Tyson's. Space Next is designed to bring together industry executives, entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, researchers, and international partners to explore the next chapter of space commercialization and its economic implications. Fairbanks County's selection as host reflects Northern Virginia's strategic advantages, including proximity to

[02:46:58] federal agencies and mission partners, leading research universities, a highly skilled technology workforce, and a growing ecosystem of aerospace, defense, and advanced technology firms. These assets position Fairfax County as a natural hub for convening global leaders focused on the future of space-enabled economic growth. Recognizing the significance of this moment, the designation of 2026 as a year of the new space economy provides an opportunity to highlight Fairfax County's leadership in innovation, strengthen global partnerships, and amplify the economic and workforce opportunities emerging from the space sector.

[02:47:38] Therefore, we move that the, I'm sorry, this is in conjunction and jointly with Chairman Jeff McKay. Therefore, we move that the Board of Supervisors direct county staff to prepare a proclamation to be presented at the board on February 17th to Victor Hoskins, President and the CEO of the Fairfax County Economic Development Authority, and George Thomas, President and CEO of Connected DMV.

[02:48:02] We also move that the board direct the Office of Public Affairs and the Department of Economic Initiatives to work with the Fairfax County Economic Development Authority to promote Space Next 2026 and highlight Fairfax County's role in advancing the new space economy through coordinated communications, stakeholder engagement, and outreach activities.

[02:48:23] I'll second it along with most of the board. this is an amazing opportunity we're I think we're all deeply proud we all know we we have a lot of building blocks to get us here and the board has clearly been part of a key part of making sure we have those building blocks but adding and bringing in these kinds of events further add to our not only our national reputation but international reputation and most importantly I think help us help the community know that we are truly a leader in this area and we have a lot more that we can do and I think this conference will give us an opportunity to further share that with the world. Thank you. Thank you. Supervisor Lusk then

[02:49:02] Jimenez. Yes let me start. I want to thank Victor Hodgkins for his leadership and work on this item. He's been talking about this ever since he got here a little more than six years ago. I had the pleasure the last four months of my tenure at the EDA I got to work with Victor and he is forward thinking innovative and committed and what he's doing is basically helping this county expand its commercial tax base by moving into space so this effort

[02:49:40] will reap benefits to the county in the long run and I will be very clear in saying we need more opportunities as as this one but this is significant and appreciate the the board matter that's been brought forward by the chairman and Supervisor Stewart and look forward to participating in this event because I know it's going to be a unique one at Capital One Hall thank you very much Supervisor Jimenez I'll just be brief yeah what EDA is doing is fantastic around space and bringing that here to Fairfax County the potential is immense the potential for jobs, the potential for growth, and most importantly, in one way that we're

[02:50:19] looking at in my office is the education piece. It's getting fifth graders and sixth graders, let's go back to fourth graders first, getting folks before high school to be interested in jobs that have to do with space. And that doesn't just mean either you're an astronaut or you're not, right? Because the space world has so many more jobs. You can do accounting, you can do all sorts of things, right? Communication, branding, marketing, whatever it is, it's more than just either you're an astronaut or you're not. And that opens up so much potential for Fairfax County to bring in jobs, to bring in new residents, to bring folks who have just so

[02:50:56] much knowledge around this issue. So it's a very exciting time. Thank you, Supervisor Stork, for bringing this up. Madam Chair, let me just mention, too, we have in the audience two of our EDA colleagues, which is Anna Nissenen, as well as David Kelly. If you could just stand up and be just so we can recognize your work and all the efforts that you all have brought together to create and have this opportunity for us in mid-February.

[02:51:23] So thank you very much. Thank you. Okay, seeing no further discussion, all those in favor of the motion, please say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Any abstention? That motion carries. Supervisor Stork. Thank you, Madam Vice Chair. The next item I have is regarding a Federal Aviation Administration recommendation.

[02:51:43] In 2020, this is, I'm sorry, this is jointly with Chairman Jeff McKay, Supervisor Kathy Smith, Supervisor Rodney Lusk, as well as Supervisor Bierman. In 2023, Feveress County, the City of Alexandria, and Prince George's County, Maryland, initiated a project to help identify strategies to reduce aircraft noise impacts from communities south of Runaway and National Airport.

[02:52:04] After years of extensive analysis, and I do mean years, maybe almost more than a decade probably, and robust community engagement involving the South of Airport Design Team, which is composed of community representatives, the consultant, V&Aire, and local jurisdictions staff, the final report and recommendations were submitted to the FAA in October 2025 and provided to this board in December 2025.

[02:52:29] The recommendations which were initially presented to the Board of Supervisors' Land Use Policy Committee on June 17, 2025, include moving the departing aircraft towards the center of the Potomac River and moving arriving aircraft over less populated areas and over the Potomac River where possible in accordance with the design philosophy.

[02:52:50] These recommended changes and proposed flight paths will measure reduced aircraft noise for many residents, and the visual perception of aircraft flying further away from densely populated residential areas will also be noticeable. Therefore, Madam Chairman, I move that the Board of Supervisors approve and send the attached letter to the Regional Administrator of the Eastern Region of the FAA, emphasizing the importance of the proposed recommendations to Fabregs County, and ask that FAA move this effort forward and take timely action to implement these recommendations.

[02:53:21] Second. I'll second that along with Supervisor Lusk and Palchuk, I think I heard. Any further discussion? I just want to, we have a huge team of folks who have been very involved, not only on county staff, but also in the community. And I just really want to thank Mike Rio in particular, who is in this industry and a former Navy pilot and just really gets it and really helps us to get it and, in turn, make sure that we are saying and doing the right things to hopefully move this along.

[02:53:51] So I know he's deeply committed. The community that are deeply impacted in Mount Vernon District especially are deeply committed to seeing this move forward. But I also want to temper that, which what I've heard is that we're looking at potentially even three or four more years before we're going to see any impact from this.

[02:54:10] So it's been a long, long journey, but we are at least taking another step in that journey. And I only hope to see an outcome that we can all be very proud of. And the South Flow Alliance, which I put together almost a decade ago, I think will be very appreciative of this further incremental improvement.

[02:54:26] Thank you. Thank you, Supervisor Stewart. Supervisor Lusk. I'll just very quickly note that we get a number of complaints in my district office and really appreciate what's being suggested here. And once implemented, we'll definitely improve the quality of life for a number of Reconia district residents.

[02:54:43] I also want to note that I'm also appreciative that these recommendations will minimize the noise impacts at Huntley Meadows Park for both the visitors and for the environment alike. So for these reasons, I'm very supportive. Thank you. Seeing no further discussion, all those in favor of the motion, please say aye.

[02:55:00] Aye. Any opposed? Any abstention? That motion carries. Thank you, Madam Chair. I have a few more of these. Sorry. The next one I'm personally deeply proud of, and again, I'm doing this in conjunction with the chairman, Jeff McKay, as well as Supervisor Pat Herity, all of which were very involved with really the creation of this school.

[02:55:24] In September 2005, I was on the school board as well as you, South County High School, actually South County Secondary School, opened its doors in Lorton as a secondary school providing a long-awaited solution to the growing need for a high school in southern Fairfax County.

[02:55:40] It became a true high school in September 2012 when the South County Middle School welcomed its first students. Before the school was built, students traveled long distances to a very, very overcrowded Hayfield Secondary School, and families in the broader community were eager for a high school they could truly call their own.

[02:55:59] Fairfax County School Board worked alongside educators and community leaders to make South County High School a reality, a journey that required persistence, innovative thinking, and countless community meetings. A key to success was forging the first public-private partnership to build a school in Fairfax made possible by the state legislature, in particular a number of them, I would say, that were clearly crucial to making this happen, and Dave Alba was clearly the leader of that process, and I want to recognize Dave's work in this. This approach enabled the county, Fairfax County Public Schools, and private partners to deliver a much-needed school

[02:56:38] when traditional capital funding alone was insufficient, demonstrating the power of collaboration to meet critical community needs. Over the past 20 years, South County High School has been a hub of learning, growth, and community pride. Students have excelled academically, thrived in the arts and athletics, and led countless extracurricular and civic initiatives.

[02:57:00] The school reflects the dedication of its teachers, staff, students, community, and administrators, as well as the foresight and advocacy of the community that fought and truly worked hard to make it possible. Whether it is a stallion riding onto the field opening football games, To the IPE squad, cheers of We Are South County, stallion pride runs very deep.

[02:57:23] Today, as we celebrate the 20th anniversary of South County High School, we honor the commitment, vision, and partnership that brought it to life. We congratulate the school and community for two decades of excellence. Measurable improvement coupled with the vision. Therefore, Madam Chair, without objection, I ask that a proclamation be signed by the chairman, myself, and Supervisor Herity to be presented to the South County High School to take place outside the boardroom, recognizing the school for its 20th anniversary.

[02:57:53] Without objection, it is so ordered. Thank you. Next item. This is also jointly with the chairman, Supervisor Kathy Smith, and Supervisor Rodney Lesk. It's about criminal blight ordinance.

[02:58:10] For over one year, the Mount Vernon District team has navigated a very, very complex code enforcement situation in the county. The ongoing issues in a particular neighborhood highlight the complex intersection of civil and criminal concerns, including housing code violations, public health risks, significant public health risks, and criminal activity, which have required coordinated action from the Fairfax County Police Department, the Department of Code Compliance, the Health Department, the Office of the County Attorney, the Commonwealth Attorney's Office, and the Mount Vernon District Office staff, and myself personally.

[02:58:46] Amid these difficulties, the residents of the community displayed remarkable resilience, serving as essential reporters to public safety officials and code compliance investigators and mobilizing effectively the Mount Vernon District Office to advocate for their neighborhood's safety and well-being.

[02:59:01] Their collective efforts, along with the county's interagency efforts, were instrumental in addressing these serious issues and working towards resolution and recovery. In the course of that work and through the efforts of the Mount Vernon District team, we were made aware of a provision in the Virginia Code that would provide another tool in the toolbox for addressing such complex cases.

[02:59:21] More specifically, Virginia Code Section 15.2-907 allows locality by ordinance to require property owners who have permitted criminal blight to exist on their properties to take various corrective actions, which are broadly defined in the law.

[02:59:41] Alternatively, the locality may do the same at the owner's cost. Criminal blight is defined in part as a condition that engenders, that endangers the public health or safety of our residents, including the regular presence on the property of persons who are in possession or under the influence of controlled substances or the regular use of the property for the purpose of possessing, manufacturing, or distributing such substances.

[03:00:05] For clarity, we would note that quote-unquote criminal refers to the activity occurring on the property, and this is a civil process, not a criminal one. While this enabling authority has not been incorporated into a county ordinance, doing so would have strengthened the county's ability to address this situation in similar cases.

[03:00:29] Therefore, Madam Chairman, we move that the Board of Supervisors direct the Fairfax County Police Department and the County Attorney's Office in coordination with the Department of Code Enforcement to draft an ordinance for the board's consideration, which incorporates the authority in Virginia Code Section 15.2-907.

[03:00:49] We further move that the staff be directed to return to an appropriate Land Use Policy Committee meeting with further information and a draft ordinance for the Board's consideration. I'll second that motion along with Supervisor Herity. Any other discussion on the motion? Okay, I want to thank you, Supervisor Stork, for reaching out to me because the Land Use Policy Committee is listed there, and I think that's important communication for us to have.

[03:01:15] So thank you very much. Well, we talked about where best, but this is ultimately a land use issue, and particularly in consultation with the chairman, he said that it would really be the most appropriate place to discuss it. I appreciate that. Seeing no further discussion, all those in favor of the motion, please say aye.

[03:01:32] Aye. Anyone opposed? Any abstentions? That motion carries. Whew! All done, Supervisor Stone. I have a couple verbal matters. I'm sorry, Madam Chair. These are important, and maybe the most important is the Mount Vernon Town Meeting, is this Saturday.

[03:01:50] Again, it's Super Bowl Saturday, the Saturday before the Super Bowl, and we have, this is our 39th annual. It starts literally at 8.30 when the exhibit hall opens up. At 10 o'clock, we will have the most important special guest. George Washington is going to join us.

[03:02:08] And he has a lot to share with us and maybe our most important guest, and we're looking forward to having those conversations with him and for his presentation. Additionally, it will also include Chairman McKay as well as our county executive, Brian Hill.

[03:02:26] This is his ninth year. I mean, he, I don't even know, were you officially sworn in when you came to the first one? Because you were there. I'm still not sworn in, sir. Well, yeah, maybe I think sworn at is maybe, that probably is true.

[03:02:44] Yeah, yeah, we got that, so. Well, regardless, you were there with your mom and your wife and one of your kids, and that was very meaningful for the community to know that you had barely just come on board or maybe even not formally.

[03:03:00] So thank you very much. And, again, particularly for you, I appreciate your comment, as well as Congresswoman Byer will be there, and our school board member, Mateo Dunn, will also be part of the – and additionally, I expect and anticipate that the majority leaders, Scott Sorovell, will be there, as well as Delegate Kreczek, and possibly another delegate or two.

[03:03:21] Channel 16 has done an amazing job, as usual. We have our progress and priorities video, which we'll be showing as part of that. Two more things to mention. You all get this from Rebecca Madre and the DEI team. They provide a Trends in Fairfax County, which I urge everybody to read.

[03:03:42] It's a monthly document. They continue to send it to the whole board. Some key highlights, which I have to mention, is number one is job postings, higher unemployment, if you will. Job postings went up slightly in January by almost 2%.

[03:03:59] Our sales tax receipts, although as well, went up about 8.5% compared to January of a year ago, so that's a positive. We have a big disappointment because our November lodging occupancy rate went down considerably down 10% to about 60% from October of 2025.

[03:04:20] And in Virginia, we had a 711% increase throughout Virginia in federal civilian unemployment claims compared to 2025. So significant change and challenge there. And finally, our November 2025 unemployment rate for Fairfax County also moved up significantly to 3.8% from 3.3% in September.

[03:04:42] So we have challenges. We all know that. That's why I think we're all working together to see how we can ensure the county is more affordable, get the housing that we know is key, and then have the economic development opportunities like Space Next to present our opportunities to others.

[03:04:59] And then this is something that just came up, and I know some of you may be familiar with this. you may be aware that those Buddhist monks are making a 2,300-mile trek walk for peace. They're currently undertaking that walk for peace.

[03:05:15] They started at Fort Worth, Texas, and they're going to end up in Washington, D.C., aiming to promote compassion, unity, and inner peace. And, again, particularly inner peace is something I know that we all need and want in our lives, And not only in our lives personally, but really through the globe, around the world, if you will.

[03:05:38] That attention really has been focused on them globally and has gained millions of followers worldwide to this event. They are now in Virginia, but they're also expected to arrive at the Virginia, actually the Mount Vernon District, Buddha Vihar Temple on Backlick Road.

[03:05:55] And they will be coming in the area on Sunday morning, February 8th. That's this coming Sunday. The monks have shared a simple but I think incredibly powerful message. Peace is not just an idea. It's not just an idea.

[03:06:11] It is something that we create together, step by step, heart by heart. So I invite the board and my colleagues as well as the community to join us along Route 1 and Richmond Highway on Sunday morning to welcome them and support this peaceful mission.

[03:06:28] Thank you. Madam Chair, just real quick on that. Could I ask, just without objection, for the staff to provide information to the board offices? Because it's not just Mount Vernon. I actually saw them in Richmond yesterday as well. So I think they're going to be coming through several parts of Fairfax County.

[03:06:44] Thank you. Thank you. Supervisor Palachuk. Thank you. And I appreciate you. Last night, I was looking to see their route. I only saw the stop in Arlington, so it's helpful to know. I was wondering if they were going to start at the temple.

[03:07:00] Someone who walked the Camino Santiago, I was very happy to see their route and that they're bringing their message. They have a beautiful temple on Backlick Road right near Route 1. Supervisor Pelchek. Excellent. Good. All right, well, I will try to be brief. I have only two board matters and one announcement, and then hopefully we can all and our staff get a lunch break.

[03:07:19] The first is jointly with Chairman McKay, Supervisor Beerman, and Supervisor Alcorn. It's review and alignment of county-supported economic development and placemaking organizations. Members of the board, for the first time in six years, and I think this was yesterday perhaps when it happened, commercial property values in Fairfax County are positive.

[03:07:41] A reflection of the Board of Supervisors and County Executives' direct engagement and economic development, work of the Fairfax County Economic Development Authority, and the creation of the Department of Economic Initiatives. This progress creates an opportunity to modernize and improve how Fairfax County structures its economic development, placemaking, and community activation efforts to ensure continued success across every magisterial district. Fairfax County currently supports multiple organizations with sometimes overlapping missions related to tourism

[03:08:16] promotion, business attraction, workforce engagement, and place-based development. While each provides value, fragmentation and duplicative services often dilute impact and reduce efficiency. This board matter seeks to align resources under a unified strategy that strengthens competitiveness, advances one Fairfax, and creates a strong, inclusive sense of place countywide.

[03:08:42] I direct the county executive to review Visit Fairfax, Volunteer Fairfax, the Tyson's Community Alliance, TCA, and any other related or duplicative organizations deemed appropriate With the goal of, among other things, eliminating duplicative services and administrative functions, strengthening coordination, accountability, and outcomes, aligning economic development, placemaking, and community engagement under a cohesive framework,

[03:09:18] Continuing to advance Tyson's as a regional economic engine consistent with a comprehensive plan while driving countywide benefits and demonstrating effective and efficient government. The review should assess missions, governance, funding models, statutory authorities, and performance outcomes, and recommend consolidation, restructuring, or realignment as appropriate.

[03:09:47] The review should also involve key members of the business community active in these organizations. Mr. Chairman, or Madam Vice Chair, I believe a change in focus is paramount to sustain momentum and ensure continued economic success in every magisterial district.

[03:10:09] Support moving forward with this effort so that once proposed and approved, changes can be implemented effective July 1, 2026. I further direct the county executive to develop and return to the board with a comprehensive reorganization plan that advances these objectives and reflects the county strategic plan and one Fairfax policy.

[03:10:34] I will second that motion along with Supervisor Bierman and Sizemore Heiser. Discussion on the motion? Yes, thank you, Madam Vice Chair. And I know while the chairman is not with us, I have conversations with him. First and briefly, I think the board matter explains quite a bit.

[03:10:52] You know, we're really going to another very difficult budget year. As we look at cutting essential services, perhaps human services, perhaps school, environment, library services, parks, bus, quite a bit of cuts.

[03:11:11] I think it's essential really more than ever that we take every single dollar into account and we prioritize essential services. While I know that the county executive and our teams and all of the staff have been looking to streamline, looking to improve our efficiency, our economic development across the board, we really can't afford to wait any longer.

[03:11:35] ensuring that we have the strategic streamlining and ensuring both for economic development, but this really started as a Tyson's, ensuring that it continues to maintain its edge as the economic engine of the county and the Commonwealth, to be able to continue to host events like Space Next and larger events as the downtown of the county, as the event center, as the ability to continue to be that place in really difficult changing times as our federal partners have changed and our economic diversity is more important than ever.

[03:12:14] The goal here is to consolidate some of the listed initiatives and to also allow for funding of essential programs. This is in no way a planned out directive. This is really a request of the county executives.

[03:12:30] I do want to thank those I had the opportunity to communicate with about this. I apologize for any I did not have the opportunity to communicate in a more timely manner. We have been working with these organizations, with their staffs, with their chairs, and with their offices to help bring this forward in a timely manner.

[03:12:51] Before we turn to our colleagues, I did want to let County Executive Hill speak to this in any brief remarks. We have not seen his budget presentation yet, but he might have additional information to share as to why we're looking at this at this time.

[03:13:07] Thank you, Supervisor Palchek, and to the board. This is an opportunity for us to look at all the things that we do and to get us all in the right place. In my humble opinion, we've done a lot of good work. Every organization listed has done great work.

[03:13:24] We're going to do better work as we move forward. As it states, the commercial areas have not been always positive. I believe non-equalization, I believe it was in 2024, we might have been positive.

[03:13:39] However, I'm looking forward to the things that we've done, not only in the Providence District, as well as every district here moving forward. We have some upticks in Hunter Mill. We have some upticks in the Sully District and other areas within the county. But we do do things duplicatively.

[03:13:57] And as I hear my good friend and supervisor from the Drainsville District, he wants to do it faster. I just want to do it right as well as doing it fast. And I think this gives me an opportunity to get us to a place where we can do it right and eventually get it done faster.

[03:14:14] So thank you for that. I have Supervisor Stork and Herity. I thank you, Madam Chair. And I think we all recognize the criticality of Tyson's and the economic driver that it is in our county and will continue to be.

[03:14:30] And we have to get it right because it will continue to be a core part of our success as Fairfax County. And not only when we have space next, which will be housed right there, but many, many other opportunities like that, Ruston and surrounding areas. And I just wanted to emphasize that I didn't have a chance to be engaged in this, but I also support the focus that it has on Tyson's and the need to take a look at that and hopefully the outcomes that can improve everything that we do.

[03:14:58] So thank you. Supervisor Herity? Yeah, I didn't. So this is focused on Tyson's? I didn't catch. Okay. So the impetus, yes, is Tyson's and looking at how we improve our investment.

[03:15:15] So let me do the specific thoughts on this. I was surprised that there were a couple of entities, because you did say other entities, but clearly Celebrate Fairfax, which has become kind of Tyson's-based, ought to be a very, even though that's going to visit Fairfax for some reason, ought to be a focus to this.

[03:15:34] And if we're looking at economic development in that Southeast Fairfax corporation, I mean, that is another economic development thing. And how that all works with economic development in general probably ought to be looked at as a part of this whole thing.

[03:15:55] If I may, it is the line in there was left more open-ended. Any other related or duplicative organizations, If you or others have others you would like to be looked at, please send them to the county executive. This is just a tiny piece of what I know he would like to look at.

[03:16:12] So I appreciate that. And for those that haven't seen the audit report that we were supposed to discuss last week, that we are going to discuss next Tuesday, it was eye-opening to a lot of supervisors. It wasn't an entire surprise to me.

[03:16:28] But it's another reason we need to do a deep dive on the budget because there's a lot of little pockets like this that exist all over an $8 billion-plus budget. So we really, I think what we're going to do Tuesday, Mr. Chairman Stork, hopefully leads to a lot more of this.

[03:16:50] I know we're looking at FCDOT and some of it, but I'm fully supportive of this effort. Thank you. Supervisor Sizemore Heiser? Yeah, just briefly, I wasn't going to comment on this, but this kind of work is one of the main reasons I actually wanted to run for this position.

[03:17:08] I think I'm very excited about this work. I know there's been great work already being done by this board and the county executive around economic development, and this seems like the next natural step around economic development of focusing on what Suvaja Stork has brought, future-focused industries, and really trying to position Fairfax County as an industry hub of these future-focused industries.

[03:17:27] But going hand-in-hand with that is that placemaking and making Fairfax County this place that people want to be, not just to work, not just to educate their kids, but to live and play. And so I love the focus on across all magisterial districts. And I think this is a natural step, not just in consolidating our efforts, but aligning them around those future focused industries and around making Fairfax County that place that people want to live. So thank you for this. I'm happy to support. So can I just add very briefly, I want to thank all of you and my apologies. Normally, you know, I want to make sure there's a full conversation with each colleague on a board matter like this this was done very quickly and really

[03:18:06] started as a focus on Tyson's and kind of grew a little bit so you know this is really just to make the work start and it is my full expectation that the county executive and his team will communicate with each of us as they look at this in our economic development okay seeing no further discussion all those in favor of the motion please say aye aye any opposed any abstention that motion carries Thank you, Madam Chair.

[03:18:34] My next board matter is pretty exciting. I have mostly a team that started this year and has been working on some new initiatives, and the first one is a community conversation on housing, collaboration with some of the folks in the housing team. Members of the board, I am thrilled to announce the start of a new program within my office, Community Conversations.

[03:18:53] This initiative will bring neighbors together to discuss and set collective goals for how they'd like to address some of the most pressing challenges facing Providence District, Fairfax County, and the region. For the first installment on February 24th at 6 p.m., we will be focusing on housing.

[03:19:10] How do we plan for housing that meets the needs of all generations? What stands in the way of building better housing outcomes, and how do we fix it? How can housing lead to a more sustainable future? Participants will learn about the current state of housing from a county expert, engage in small group discussions, and report their preferences for policies back to the larger group. I look forward to productive conversations and additional perspectives in policy discourse from residents of the Providence District. Therefore, I move without objection that the Office of Public Affairs publicize this event on the appropriate channels, and I invite those

[03:19:49] interested in participating to register via the Providence District webpage, fairfaxcounty.gov slash Providence. Without objection, it's so ordered. Thank you, Madam Chair. And that's just a quick announcement. I think he's sitting behind me. Some of you may be familiar. Kyle Stone, who brings more than 15 years of experience in public service, policy advising, and organizational leadership across government, academia, and nonprofit sectors, has just joined my office three weeks, I believe now, as our new chief of staff, though not new to the chief of staff role.

[03:20:23] He most recently served as an associate director at George Mason University and previously worked at the Nature Conservancy and as chief of staff to former Braddock District Supervisor John Cook. Kyle, spelled K-I-E-L, holds a master's degree in natural resources from Virginia Tech and is a Ph.D. candidate in environmental science and policy.

[03:20:46] We're hoping to encourage him as he works on that Ph.D. He recently completed eight years of service on the Fairbanks County Park Authority Board, the last re-ess chair, and is very excited to bring his experience and perspective to his new role in service to the board. And there are some heroes and leaders who prefer to sit behind the scenes. I would say Kyle Stone is one of those who does not appreciate the limelight. So he was so excited that I was going to reintroduce him today. But seriously, we're so delighted to have Kyle Stone back in the supervisor's office. I don't know if I got to share, Kim now used to

[03:21:24] be Hermio. Coyle was here today because she was in the first class of the leadership institute, the Inclusive Leadership Institute. She's now working in the retirement office. So we're so excited when some of our team members grow their wings and move on to bigger and better roles.

[03:21:40] Very good. Okay, and Supervisor Herity. Okay, before I do my first board matter, I'm going to, which is on the VDOT County response to the snow and ice event. I think I want to take a minute really to thank some of the people that really did an incredible job during the snowstorm.

[03:22:00] And our fire department stands out with 1,628 calls for service between Sunday and Wednesday. Pretty incredible. Their creative adopt a hydrant program. I saw in another jurisdiction firefighters out there with flares trying to get the hydrants, and we've at least attempted to address that issue in Fairfax County.

[03:22:24] The police department, they had between Sunday and Wednesday 2,791 calls for service. About 300 of those were disabled motorists. Certainly public affairs in their blog and in Department of Emergency Management, their 911.

[03:22:43] I think all did a very good job in response to a storm. But let me go ahead and read my board matter calling for discussions of VDOT and county response to the January 25-26 snow and ice event.

[03:23:00] In the days following, and I did not use Snowcrete in here. I think I did that intentionally. But anyway, in the days following the snow, sleet, and ice event on Sunday, January 25th through Monday, January 26th, My office, and I'm sure everybody else's office, received a high volume of calls and emails regarding lack of treatment of neighborhood streets received during and after the storm.

[03:23:27] Also, a full week later, parking spots at county offices remained covered in snow. If there were no plows on the roads, during all phases of the events, road became covered in thick ice that required construction excavation equipment to remove, as a standard plow cannot handle it.

[03:23:45] This left many of our residents trapped in their communities, even if the main roads in the area were passable. A common frustrating issue is inconsistency of treatment between neighborhoods or even within neighborhoods with no apparent reason behind it. A good example of this occurred in two communities in the Springfield District.

[03:24:04] One received several passes with a plow on its more heavily traveled roads during the storm, while a community in comparable size just across the main road from then received no plowing at all during the storm. Many neighborhoods had their main streets plowed, but the cul-de-sacs ignored.

[03:24:21] Additionally, a full week after the storm, there remained numerous incidents of lanes narrowing or dropping unexpectedly on major secondary roads, which created extremely dangerous situations once traffic returned to speed. Many turn lanes were left unplowed, and there are still mountains of snow blocking rights-of-way on major secondary roads in some areas in the county.

[03:24:46] While VDOT's response was better in most areas than the last major storm we had, at least this supervisor is interested in knowing if and how VDOT rates the performance of its plow operators and contracted plows. Are ratings considered in the following year's contracting processes?

[03:25:04] Are there penalties for poor performance? Is there a different approach taken by VDOT when cold weather is forecast for several days after a storm? Is this a money issue that we can help argue to get the resources for? VDOT is not the only agency experiencing issues with plowing.

[03:25:23] I know several county office lots continue to have little more than a single lane to be shared by vehicles, both entering and exiting the lots and had not had their parking spaces cleared a full week after the storm, making it difficult for employees to safely park upon their return to work.

[03:25:40] I think it would be beneficial for the board to communicate with VDOT areas where the response was effective, as well as where improvement can be made during similar weather events in the future. And the piece that was in the draft that should have come out talked about involving the school system in this discussion.

[03:26:00] And that was really what I brought up. And I want to thank the chairman also for his volunteer effort. That makes a lot of sense. And, you know, it should be a team effort to get schools reopened. And I think schools have a lot of input to give on this matter.

[03:26:18] So with that, Mr. Chairman, I move that we invite leadership at VDOT's Nova District Administrator's Office and our county agencies in charge of our facilities, to a future Transportation Committee meeting to discuss the issues identified above, as well as problems identified by other supervisors, staff, and our residents, and how we can better serve residents in the future.

[03:26:43] And I would further ask that we include the school system in those conversations. So moved. Second. Seconded by Supervisor Beerman. Any other discussion on the motion, Supervisor Herring? I think I did most of that during my interrupt. Supervisor Bierman?

[03:27:01] So I seconded it in part for the purpose of amending it somewhat. So last year we did invite everybody to a transportation committee meeting. It didn't happen until about April, I think, was roughly the timeline for it.

[03:27:17] It was a pretty heated meeting. We all remember that one. I actually think that this year the storm response was markedly better than it was last year, which doesn't mean that I think it was good enough.

[03:27:29] But I think that my sort of motion to amend here is that before we set for the agenda of a future transportation committee meeting that we bring VDOT in or bring in other agencies, that we compile from the board a list of written questions, including the very questions in here, which I think are good, such as ratings considering in the following year's contracting process.

[03:27:58] I personally committed to my residents to asking budget questions this year about both the cost of taking over our roads, which I hear is prohibitively expensive, but I'm kind of tired of explaining that to people without a full budget analysis, or the cost of taking over snow operations.

[03:28:18] So I also will be asking those as budget questions, but also in keeping in mind with the whole speed is really important here, I would suggest, you're darn right, Brian, he's doing this for those who can't see on TV, that everyone from the board brings something to, I am happy to shepherd this as board transportation committee chair, bring to my office a list of questions and concerns and places and agencies that we want

[03:28:52] to direct these questions. We will compile a letter or a series of letters that we can try to get out either next week since we will all be together and we can maybe not formally vote on it, but we will all be here for committee meetings, or we will do it at the February 17th. We could bring a secondary board matter. We can get those questions answered and then revisit the question of whether or not we, again, want to have an April meeting where we bring in VDOT staff.

[03:29:22] Or, frankly, we may at that April meeting, if we do want to talk about this, may not want it to be with VDOT staff, but may want it to be with somebody from the schools to talk about what we can do better next year. So that's a long way of saying that I move a friendly amendment to do everything that I just said.

[03:29:40] And the maker of the motion agrees. I would, one small, just let's get some input from school on the original questions. If we may maybe reach out to school board members, I think that would be helpful. Absolutely. Then in light of that, I think the strategy should be to bring something back at the February 17th board meeting.

[03:30:02] Do I have that date right? That's two weeks from now. And then, you know, formalize our plan from there. So I'd like to just take a breath before we decide on the board meeting a minute. I want to call on the county executive first, and then I'll call on Supervisor Alcorn.

[03:30:21] Well, I want to thank the board for this board matter as well as I want to thank our staff for having the gumption to get us back into the office on Wednesday after that historic snowfall and ice. A lot of things get left aside when we have to close the office for an event.

[03:30:47] I believe this is the fourth time since I've been here that we had to close for snow. I want to laud Chris Harrington and his team because I said to Chris, you don't get to Wednesday, you got to do it on Tuesday. And Chris came into my office on Monday, can we please do Wednesday?

[03:31:08] I'm like, no, we can't do that. So Supervisor Harrity and any other board member that only had a little bit of shoveling done at their office, we do apologize. However, our main focus was to get our government operations open and to serve the residents of Fairfax County.

[03:31:26] What was interesting about this snow, Loudon called me, Alexandria called me, Arlington called me, Prince William still is calling and asking, how the heck did you guys do that so fast? We have a great team here. We don't get everything exactly right.

[03:31:44] But the one thing we did do is have the buildings ready and open on Wednesday, and I do want to thank them publicly for doing that. Thank you. Supervisor Alcorn. Yeah, just one quick request with this direction that we're going, which is can we also, as VDOT and the school system, can we look at the pedestrian issues associated with it?

[03:32:07] Because we're, I mean, the clearing's done primarily for cars. I think the board matter that we did earlier today is maybe one piece of that, but it's more than just VDOT. It's more than just schools. So I appreciate you sort of broadening this out a little bit because there may be some other folks we need to talk about pet issues.

[03:32:25] Thank you. Supervisor Pelchuk. I'm glad you brought that up, Supervisor Elkhorn. And some of that is we only own 30 miles of road, and some of those, we also have some sidewalks that create some of the connections for the students walking to school. I know my neighborhood has that.

[03:32:41] So I appreciate that the team did excellent work, Chris Harrington's team, and then let's understand their role in this and our county-owned roads and sidewalks as well. Thank you. So I want to restate what I think we want to do.

[03:32:57] It seems like we want to gather questions from board members. There could be questions from staff, and then get answers to those questions before we decide if we want to have a meeting or not. I know that some of our state delegates have put out information, and they're also asking questions of VDOT, especially for the cul-de-sac issue in that.

[03:33:21] I guess my question to my colleagues is, do we need to have another meeting to agree on what those questions are? Because part of me feels like the questions are going to be the questions, and we'll get them compiled and get them where they need to be. Supervisor Bierman, then Harrity.

[03:33:37] I was simply offering that before we sent out some of these inquiries to various agencies or groups that everybody have an opportunity to look at them. However, we can do that informally, and I can circulate it to everybody here, or we could wait until a future board meeting.

[03:33:56] I can't do this necessarily tomorrow, but we can do this quickly and hopefully get answers that will inform whether or not we want to have a full meeting. To quote somebody on the board, the quicker the better? Yeah, yeah, exactly. I think it's just get the questions to you by the end of the week.

[03:34:14] Please. You can compile them and get them. Sure. That's what I heard you say. Absolutely. And I agree, too, as the second, or as the maker of the motion. Ken Executive Hill will work with Supervisor Bierman, and we will get this all put together quickly. You bet.

[03:34:29] Okay, we are good. Supervisor Herity, anything else? Oh, yeah, you've got a couple more. Get a vote on that one first before I do the next one. Oh, I thought we were just, without objection, we're moving forward with this. Oh, I did a motion, and it was seconded.

[03:34:45] Well, then he, okay. And then he friendly amended it, and I agreed to his friendly amendment. Okay. And then we discussed, all right, we will vote. All those in favor of the changed motion, please say aye. Aye. Aye. Anyone opposed? Any abstentions? That motion carries. Thank you. All right.

[03:35:02] So the next one is a little more fun. Announcing the 2026 Fairfax County Teen Job Fairs for the last nine years, my office in Fairfax County Public Schools have hosted very successful teen job fairs and career-building workshops, along with businesses and community organizations, including our local Chambers of Commerce.

[03:35:24] These events focus on students and young job seekers looking for a variety of employment opportunities, including full-time, after-school, seasonal positions, internship opportunities, and volunteer positions. The fairs have provided thousands of teenagers with opportunities to get in front of employers and for employers to find talented Fairfax County students to fill their positions.

[03:35:46] Even during the pandemic, we were able to host two virtual fairs. Last year, we had over 1,500 students and over 100 businesses participated. I'm excited to team up with Fairfax County Public Schools, Fairfax County Times, Neighborhood and Community Services, DFS Public Assistance and Employment Services Division, as well as local chambers and organizations to bring our community to Fairfax County Teen Job Fairs and Career Building Workshops. Once again, they will be on Saturday, March 7th and Saturday, March 21st.

[03:36:18] They're open to all teens. They're free for businesses. They're free for teens. We'll also host resume and career building sessions with our Chambers of Commerce and NCS partners. Beginning today, the link is open. It is on my website.

[03:36:36] First jobs are important. These events connect teens with employers and prepare youth for the workforce. Therefore, Mr. Chairman, I ask without objection the Office of Public Affairs to help publicize the 2026 Fairfax County Teen Job and Opportunity Fair. Without objection, it is so ordered.

[03:36:54] I've got one more, Madam Chairman. This is a Peterson Companies TPC Freedom 1 LLC and TPC Freedom 2 LLC. Peterson Companies, through its affiliates TPC Freedom 1 LLC and TPC Freedom 2 LLC, have filed proper commission amendments and special exception amendment conceptual development plan, final development plan, and rezoning applications on tax map parcels 56-2,

[03:37:30] Double Circle 1, 74B, and 57-1, Double Circle 1, 10, and 23 to rezone approximately 23 acres from C6, I4, and HC to PDC and HC to redevelop the site with two multifamily buildings consisting of up to 280 multifamily units for Building A, up to 140 multifamily units, anticipated to serve an average of 60% AMI

[03:38:02] through LIHTC financing for Building B, a roughly 48, 771-square-foot expansion of the existing Inova Keller Center, which provides mental health and substance use disorder treatment to children and families in our community and up to 286 stacked townhomes at a total far of 1.2 for the entire development, inclusive of bonus density. The application proposes a development plan showing new residential buildings, interjurisdictional connection to the city of Fairfax and improvements to the intersection of Waples Mill and Pender Drive. The Planning Commission

[03:38:40] public hearing is scheduled for March 11, 2026, and the applicant has requested an expedited review of rezoning application and authorization to start processing a concurrent site plan. Board of Supervisors' public hearing has yet to be scheduled and has been requested for April 14, 2026.

[03:39:01] Therefore, Mr. Chairman, I move that the Board of Supervisors direct the Department of the Director of the Department of Planning and Development and the Director of the Department of Land Development Services to expedite the scheduling of the Board of Supervisors' public hearing and to concurrently process the review of the site plan building permits and or other plans and permits as may be necessary to implement

[03:39:25] PCA-77-C-111-05, PCA-79-C-054, SCA-83-P-071-03, and rz-fdp-2024-sp-00011.

[03:39:52] I also ask that the Chairman's Office and the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors to schedule the public hearing for the list of applications to a date certain of April 14, 2026. As always, this motion should not be construed as a favorable recommendation by the Board of Supervisors on the proposed application and does not relieve the applicant from compliance with the provisions of all applicable ordinances, regulations, or adopter standards in any way.

[03:40:21] So moved. I will second that motion. Any discussion on the motion? Seeing and hearing none, all those in favor say aye. Aye. Anyone opposed? Any abstention? That motion carries. Supervisor Herring. That's it, Madam Chairman. Oh, it's only 1.13, and we just got done with board matters. Okay, we're going to move on to admin items.

[03:40:39] And I understand that admin two is being withdrawn, so I will turn to Supervisor Palczyk for that motion. Thank you, Madam Vice Chair. I move that the administrative item two, the authorization to advertise a public hearing on proposed landscaping plans for Tyson's in accordance with the Virginia Department of Transportation's comprehensive roadside management program, be withdrawn from today's agenda to a date to be determined.

[03:41:03] I'll second that motion. Any discussion on the motion? Seeing and hearing none. All those in favor of the motion, please say aye. Aye. Anyone in opposition, say nay. Any abstentions, that motion carries. I'm sorry when I think of the one thing at once.

[03:41:21] Okay, now let me ask, is there a motion to approve admin items 1, 3, 4, and 5? So moved. Second. I moved to approve admin items 1, 3, 4, and 5. Thank you. Seconded by Supervisor Lusk.

[03:41:36] Are there any items that board members want voted on separately? Seeing none, all those in favor of the motion, please say aye. Aye. Anyone opposed? Any abstentions? That motion carries. And we have one action item on the agenda.

[03:41:52] It's the adoption of a resolution confirming the declaration of local emergency, terminating the declaration of local emergency, and consenting to all actions taken by the Director of Emergency Management and County Staff. I'll turn the gavel over to Supervisor Palczyk so that I may make a motion.

[03:42:08] Do we have a motion? I move that the Board of Supervisors adopt the resolution set forth as Attachment 1 to this agenda item. I will second that motion. Is there any discussion? All right, all those in favor, please say aye.

[03:42:24] Aye. Any opposed, any abstentions? The motion passes unanimously. Thank you. And thank you for all the hard work out there. So before I turn to Supervisor Palczyk for a motion to bring us into closed session, Let me ask the county attorney how much time we need for closed session.

[03:42:45] Madam Vice Chairman, I estimate approximately one hour and 15 minutes. Okay, one hour and 15 minutes. 2.15, we should go into closed meeting at 2.15.

[03:43:02] And I know that Supervisor Alcorn already said that he's going to make a motion to defer his case. So with that, Supervisor Palachuk. Madam Chair, I move that the Board of Supervisors recess and go into a closed session for discussion and consideration of matters enumerated in Virginia Code Section 2.2-3711 and listed in the attached agenda for this meeting, and in addition, one, as permitted by Virginia Code Sections 2.2-3711, double parentheses A, double parentheses 3, double parentheses

[03:43:38] comma, double parenthesis eight, and double parenthesis 29, potential award of a public contract involving the expenditure of public funds and possible disposition of publicly held property in the Sully District, where open discussion would adversely affect the county's bargaining position or negotiating strategy, and two, as permitted by Virginia Code Section 2.2-3711, double parenthesis A, double parenthesis eight, comma, legal analysis of certain bills introduced in the 2026 regular session of the General Assembly.

[03:44:14] I'll second that motion. Any discussion on the motion? All those in favor, please say aye. Aye. Anyone opposed? Any abstention? That motion carries. The board is now in closed meeting.

[03:47:33] Good afternoon.

[03:52:15] The board is back from closed session, and I will ask Supervisor Palchuk for a motion. Madam Vice Chair, I move that the Board of Supervisors certify that to the best of each members' 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.

[03:52:45] Second. The motion's been seconded by Supervisor Alcorn. Any discussion on the motion? All those in favor of the motion, please say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Any abstention? That motion carries. Thank you, everyone. All right, we will now move on to public hearings.

[03:53:02] Individuals wishing to provide testimony have a number of options. They can testify here in person, or they can provide testimony by phone or YouTube video. At the designated point in the public hearing, I will 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.

[03:53:22] There will be an opportunity for anyone else who would like to speak to the matter to come down to the podium or to call in to 703-324-1020. Speakers testifying via video must sign up and submit their video no later than 9 a.m. on the day prior to the hearing.

[03:53:40] For public hearing testimony, you are given three minutes to speak as an individual. If you are a spokesperson for a group, you are given five minutes. First, we have a public hearing on SE-2025-HM-00001, Comstock Reston Station Holdings, LC, Hunter Mill District.

[03:54:02] And I understand this is going to be deferred, so I will turn to Supervisor Alcorn for a motion. Thank you, Madam Vice Chair. This case is still pending before the Planning Commission. So, therefore, I move that the Board of Supervisors defer the public hearing for SE 2025-HM-00001 to March 3, 2026 at 3.30 p.m.

[03:54:26] Second. It's been moved and seconded. Any discussion on the motion? All those in favor of the motion, please say aye. Aye. Anyone opposed? Any abstentions? That motion carries. Thank you, Supervisor Alcorn. Next, we have a public hearing on RZ-2024-DR-00018, which will be heard concurrently with PCA-78-D-049 and SE-2024-DR-000031, Flagship Virginia, OPCO, LLC, Drainesville District.

[03:55:04] Could the applicant please reaffirm the affidavit? Vice Chair Smith, I'm Patty Tui with the law firm of Miles and Stockbridge. On behalf of the applicant flagship Virginia Opco LLC, I hereby reaffirm the three affidavits dated December 22, 2025.

[03:55:27] Thank you. Thank you. Any disclosures from board members? Thank you. Thank you. Okay. Here and here.

[03:55:44] No, just so you read that. Okay. This hearing is concurrent. This hearing is also concurrent with PCA-78-D-049 and SE-2024-DR-00031.

[03:56:02] Thank you. Okay, there were no disclosures. All right, I'll now recognize staff for a presentation. Thank you, Madam Chairman. I'm Tabitha Cole with the Department of Planning and Development. The applicant, Flagship Virginia, seeks approval of three concurrent zoning applications to allow for the development of a car wash facility.

[03:56:23] The 1.04-acre site consists of two lots with split zoning of R1 and C8. The site abuts a floodplain to the east and is encumbered by a resource protection area and environmental quality corridor. The site is currently developed with two commercial uses, a dry cleaning retail business on Parcel 2A and a restaurant on Parcel 2B.

[03:56:46] The PCA application would remove land area from a previous zoning. The rezoning application would allow the applicant to rezone the subject property to the C-8 district. And finally, the special exception application would allow for the car wash facility use. The site would be redeveloped with a 4,000 square foot drive-through car wash facility with 22 self-serve vacuum stations. The building would have a single bay that would allow for the flow of vehicles from the north end of the building to the south. Vehicular access to the site would be provided via the Drainsville Road service drive at the two existing access

[03:57:22] points. The site design would accommodate the queuing of 10 vehicles on site without blocking internal circulation. The applicant also proposes to add pedestrian crosswalks as shown in this slide. The proposed development would provide 39.5% open space and reduce impervious area on the site by approximately 7,000 square feet. Stormwater would be treated and detained on site with two underground systems. The car wash water would be treated and either recycled back into use for the car wash or discharged into the sanitary sewer.

[03:58:00] Lastly, the applicant has committed to remove all existing debris from parcel 2C, which is owned by the park authority. In addition, the applicant will place a six-foot-tall wooden fence along the site's perimeter and provide an access easement through the subject site to parcel 2C.

[03:58:16] This concludes my presentation. Thank you. Thank you. Are there any questions? Okay, I'll now recognize the applicant for a presentation. Thank you. I'm Vice Chair and members of the Board of Supervisors. My name is Shane Murphy with Miles and Stockbridge.

[03:58:33] On behalf of the applicant, Flagship Car Wash, I have with me this afternoon Lee May from Flagship and my colleague Patty Toohey. We're going to go through this pretty quickly since Tabitha said most of what I was going to say anyway. Flagship is a fast-growing company across what we call the DMV.

[03:58:49] They've got several locations across the DMV, including another one in Herndon. As lives get busier, as environmental stewardship has become an important issue for local residents, Flagship's business has flourished. They have existing locations, again, in this vicinity, but they are very busy.

[03:59:09] And an express location at the corner of Drainsville and 7 was one that they thought would be a very good addition. The demand for these services is primarily Herndon, Reston, Sterling, and Great Falls. The existing properties on the site are a pollo restaurant that used to be a pizza hut.

[03:59:29] And a dry clean establishment, a nail salon that used to be a Kenny Shoes, both places that I frequented as I was growing up. So as these pad sites have aged, they have not aged gracefully. And the proposed site is going to dramatically improve the look and the feel of these retail sites.

[03:59:48] It will upgrade stormwater management and protect adjacent properties and Sugar Land Run. We're also proposing to preserve and relocate an existing temporary, quote, temporary access to a county-owned sanitary sewer facility. I said temporary because it was granted in the 1970s.

[04:00:05] And it will clean up the adjacent park authority-owned property, which has not been very well maintained and has had some other materials that have been dumped on it. So we're going to clean those up. And we're also going to preserve the development potential to the extent that it exists of adjacent parcels.

[04:00:22] With that, I'm happy to answer any questions you have, and thank you for your time. Thank you. Are there any questions of staff or the applicant? Okay, seeing none, this is a public hearing. I don't have any speakers signed up ahead of time. Is there anyone here in the auditorium who wishes to speak to this matter?

[04:00:41] I will now recognize the clerk to see if we have any speakers who've called in. There are no callers. No callers? Okay, closing comments and a recommendation from staff. Thank you. On January 7, 2026, the Planning Commission recommended approval of these three applications.

[04:00:59] Staff concurs with those recommendations. Thank you. Thank you. Are there any questions from board members? Okay. I will now close the public hearing and recognize Supervisor Beerman for a motion. Thank you, Madam Chair and woman. I request that the applicant confirm for the record their agreement to the special exception development conditions dated December 23, 2025.

[04:01:21] Supervisor Rearman, we do agree with the special exception conditions dated December 23rd, 2025. Thank you. I figured you would. I move that the Board of Supervisors approve PCA-78-D-049, approve RZ-2024-DR-00018, Subject to the executed proffers dated December 22nd, 2025.

[04:01:46] And approve SE-2024-DR-00031. Subject to the development conditions dated December 23rd, 2025. I'll second that motion. Any discussion on the motion? Sure, sure.

[04:02:03] Very happy to see this coming through. Thank you to staff for all the work that you did. I think this is a good application. The fact that it's exceeding the 10-year canopy requirement, that their car wash water will be collected and treated through a reclaimed tank system and either recycled back into use for the car wash.

[04:02:23] There's definitely a lot of demand in the area. I can see people going to Katie's Cars and Coffee and then dropping by this car wash on the way home. I am not going to share a rendition of the 1976 hit Car Wash by Rose Royce, which was a number one hit at the time.

[04:02:42] But if you really want to have a laugh, I suggest you look up the lyrics. They're funnier than you think. But I think this is a great application, and thank you very much to everyone involved, and I hope to have my colleague's support. Thank you. Okay, with that, all those in favor of the motion, please say aye.

[04:03:01] Aye. Anyone opposed? Any abstentions? That motion carries. Thank you. Thank you. Okay, next we have a public hearing on SE-2024-MV-00008, Al-Assign Contact, Mount Vernon District.

[04:03:38] Okay, could the applicant please reaffirm the affidavit? Good evening, Madam Vice Chair, Chairman.

[04:03:58] Hi, my name is Fahim Durab with YR Gill, representing the applicant, and I do reaffirm the affidavit dated October 2nd, 2025. Thank you very much. Are there any disclosures from board members? Okay, I will now recognize staff for a presentation.

[04:04:19] Thank you, Madam Chair. I'm Savannah Murray with the Department of Planning and Development. This afternoon, I will be presenting a special exception request by Alcine Conte for a tire store at 7835 Richmond Highway in the Gum Springs neighborhood of the Mount Vernon District.

[04:04:38] The application property is located within the Richmond Highway Commercial Revitalization District. The SE was filed on land which is 32,451 square feet in size and zoned C8.

[04:04:54] This site is a part of a larger 1.98-acre parcel, which is split zone C8 and R2. The applicant operates a tire sales and installation business known as AC Tires. He has been in violation since 2023 for operating without a special exception approval for the tire installation component of the business, which is considered a vehicle light repair and maintenance use under the zoning ordinance.

[04:05:24] The applicant has also been cited for the outdoor storage of tires and other equipment on the parcel. The applicant will operate out of the existing structure located along the southern property line. There is one service bay for tire installations and nine parking spaces.

[04:05:44] The applicant proposes to provide transitional screening to the abiding residences to the north and south. The applicant will install a six-foot tall wooden fence to the north, east, and south, and will also remove the concrete and asphalt surfaces within the R2 zoned portion of the site.

[04:06:04] In terms of transportation, the applicant will be closing the southernmost site entrance onto the service drive. And finally, the applicant will be dedicating the area shown above in blue to accommodate the future bus rapid transit project along Richmond Highway.

[04:06:21] The slide on the left depicts site conditions when the special exception was accepted for review in March of 2025. The applicant has removed all outdoor tires from the parcel as shown on the right.

[04:06:37] No outdoor storage is proposed as a part of this special exception. Thank you. That concludes my presentation. Thank you. I'll now recognize the applicant for a presentation. Thank you, Madam Vice Chair. We just, I think Savannah covered it, so we don't want to take too much of y'all's time.

[04:06:56] We just wanted to, you know, let you know that this is a small business. It's been operating here for a little while, and we're serving the community, and we wanted to do things the right way, you know, by the zoning ordinance and all those requirements as well as by the community.

[04:07:12] We have the support of the MVCCA. We have the support of the new Gumspring Civic Association staff, planning commission, and we're hopeful of you all's support as well. Thank you. Thank you very much. any questions of staff or the applicant okay this is a public hearing i have no speakers signed up is there anyone else here in the auditorium who wishes to speak to this matter i will now recognize the clerk to note if we have any speakers who called in there are no callers closing comments

[04:07:48] and a recommendation from staff on january 14 2025 the planning commission voted to recommend approval of se 2024 mv 0008 subject to the development conditions now dated january 6 2026 staff concurs with the recommendation thank you are there any questions from board members okay i will now close the public hearing and recognize super supervisor stork for a motion well thank you madam vice chair i think the community well knows the length of time that

[04:08:26] that this has been in violation and one of great concern because it shouldn't take this long to get a violation resolved like this. I think the good news is that we've been able to work with the small business owner and appreciate that. I greatly value your occupation of the business as well as your development of the business. It was a new business there at the time and one that had been frankly not much going on there for a number of years. So it is a kind of opportunity that we welcome along the highway and just again pleased that we've been able to address the notice of violations and really move this forward a lot of conversations in the community to get us this far and again appreciate your willingness to

[04:09:05] meet with the key members of our community particularly the gum Springs community that's it's a very sensitive as we all are to the violations in the sense that you know we're not going to have the same standards as elsewhere in the county in terms of how facilities are operated so I got all good I think we're headed in the right direction and I realize that this is still a challenge going forward for you with the limitations of the proffer but it's one that we're we're my office and I know the community is very willing to work with I appreciate again the New Gum Springs Civic Association and the Mount

[04:09:42] Vernon Council and Civic Association and their support of this is along with the unanimous support of the Planning Commission with that I request the applicant to confirm for the record their agreement to the development conditions consistent with those dated January 6, 2026. Yes, sir. We do agree to those. Thank you. I move the Board of Supervisors approve SE 2024 MV00008 subject to development conditions dated January 6, 2026.

[04:10:16] I also move that the Board of Supervisors approve the waivers and modifications listed in the handout dated and distributed December 10th, 2025. Seconded by Supervisor Palchuk. Any discussion on the motion? No, I think we've said it all. We're pleased that we've brought these together and pleased that Mr. Conte will be able to operate a business that we very much support and need on the highway.

[04:10:40] So thank you. Thank you. All those in favor of the motion, please say aye. Aye. Anyone opposed? Any abstentions? That motion carries. Thank you very much. Okay, and our last public hearing is a public hearing on SEA-00-Y-004-002 Mount Olive Baptist Church in the Sully District.

[04:11:08] Could the applicant please reaffirm the affidavit?

[04:11:28] Good afternoon, members of the board. I am Jessica Washington with the law firm Walsh-Kaluchi. On behalf of the applicant, I reaffirmed the affidavit dated January 5, 2026. Thank you very much. Any disclosures from board members? I do have a disclosure that Prince Howard donated in excess of $100 to Kathy Smith for supervisor. I will now recognize staff for a presentation.

[04:11:52] Thank you, Madam Chair and members of the board. I'm Carl Shoemates with the Department of Planning and Development. The applicant, Mount Olive Baptist Church, located at 6600 Old Centerville Road, requests an amendment to SE-00-Y-004, previously approved for religious assembly with Child Care Center to allow modifications to development conditions related to signage.

[04:12:22] SE-00-Y-004 was imposed prior to the adoption of Zoning Ordinance Article 7, which regulates and permits electronic display signs by right in Subsection 7101. Development Condition Number 16 of this special exception precludes the existing freestanding sign marked with a blue star from being internally illuminated.

[04:12:46] Amending this development condition would allow the applicant to insert an electronic display screen on the existing freestanding sign. No additional sign area is proposed and no other changes are proposed to the site or approved uses. Furthermore, the location of the sign shown here is directly across from a power substation and not readily visible from adjacent residential neighborhoods.

[04:13:09] Staff finds the request to be in harmony with the comprehensive plan and in conformance with the zoning ordinance. This concludes my presentation. Thank you very much. I'll now recognize the applicant for a presentation. I'd like to thank Mr. Shumate for the presentation and his work on this project.

[04:13:25] It's been a pleasure to work with him. I don't really have anything else to add. He covered it great, and I'm happy to answer any questions you have. Thank you very much. Are there any questions of staff or the applicant? Okay, I don't see any. This is a public hearing. I have no speaker signed up.

[04:13:41] Is there anyone in the auditorium who wishes to speak to this matter? I will now recognize the clerk to note if we have any speakers who have called in. There are no callers. Thank you very much. Closing comments and recommendation from staff. On November 19, 2025, the Planning Commission recommended approval of the special exception subject to conditions dated November 6, 2025.

[04:14:06] Staff concurs with those recommendations. Thank you very much. Are there any questions from board members? I will now close the public hearing and turn the gavel over to Supervisor Palczyk so that I may make a motion. I will second the motion. I will go ahead and make the motion.

[04:14:22] Thank you. I request that the applicant confirm for the record their agreement to the development conditions dated November 6, 2025. The applicant agrees to the development conditions dated November 6, 2025. Thank you. I move that the Board of Supervisors approve SEA-00-Y-004-002 subject to the development conditions dated November 6, 2025. Second. We have a second from Supervisor Herdy. Any further discussion? Just briefly. Go ahead. I know this has taken a little bit longer

[04:14:57] than the church was hoping, but it was a good process, and I will be happy to come visit once the sign is up and lit up. So thank you, everybody, for their work on this. I will second. It looks like an excellent improvement to make the church more visible from the large road. So with that, seeing no further discussion, all those in favor, please say aye. Aye. Any opposed? Any abstentions?

[04:15:24] It passes unanimously, but the chairman awaits. Thank you very much. Congratulations. Okay, so if there is no further discussion, that brings us to the end of our board meeting of February 3, 2026.

[04:15:40] With that, our board meeting is adjourned.

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