Featured in the Ashburn District Flyer
Loudoun County's Adopted Budget for Fiscal Year 2025
Proposed Transmission Line Projects
Loudoun County News
Upcoming Opportunities & Community Engagement
Legislative Applications for Development in the Ashburn District
(Focused)
In this flyer, we are focused on applications that have status updates since our previous flyer, as well as applications that are coming to the next BOS Public Hearing. View the full list of legislative applications in the Ashburn District here.
* This application is coming to the May 15th, Board of Supervisors Public Hearing. Learn more about providing public input here.
** This application is coming to the April 23 Planning Commission Public Hearing. Learn more about providing public input here.
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Loudoun County's Adopted Budget for Fiscal Year 2025 |
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The Loudoun County Board of Supervisors has approved a budget totaling approximately $6.9 billion in total appropriations for the general county government and school system for Fiscal Year (FY) 2025. The adopted budget includes a real property tax rate of $0.865 cents per $100 in assessed value for tax year 2024, which is one cent lower than the current tax rate.
The adopted budget also includes a personal property tax rate of $4.15 per $100 in assessed value for tax year 2024, which is the same as the current rate. Due to pending legislation adopted by the Virginia General Assembly, the county anticipates the ability to set separate personal property tax rates for computer equipment and vehicles. If authorized, the Board expects to consider lowering the personal property tax rate on vehicles later this year to be effective for tax year 2025, which begins on January 1, 2025.
The adopted budget fully funds the Loudoun County School Board’s budget request of $131 million by recognizing $19 million in additional state revenue that is anticipated for the Loudoun County Public Schools (LCPS) and by providing total funding in the amount of $1.3 billion, which is $112 million more than last year’s local funding transfer to LCPS.
While the Board lowered the real property tax rate, the average tax bill in Loudoun is likely to increase due to a number of factors, such as increased property assessments, ranging from 3.7% to 5%, depending on the type of home. Based on the adopted tax rate, homeowners would on average countywide have a real property tax bill increase of approximately $200 in tax year 2024.
The FY 2025 adopted budget also includes:
- $15.7 million in base budget adjustments to continue providing core services.
- An increase of $41 million for employee compensation to keep Loudoun competitive in the market, which consists of:
- A 7% merit increase for the general county workforce.
- A step increase and a 9.4% salary scale adjustment for uniformed Fire and Rescue personnel and Sheriff’s deputies, for an average pay increase of 12.4%.
- The addition of 256 positions in 26 county departments.
- Funding in an amount equivalent to one-half cent of the real property tax rate dedicated to affordable housing programs, which amounts to approximately $7.4 million in FY 2025. (The Board intends to consider additional funding later this year amounting to another half-cent of the real property tax.)
- $40 million for the Revenue Stabilization Fund, which was created by the Board of Supervisors in 2023 to assist in the mitigation of the risk of overreliance on revenues generated by the data center industry.
Capital Improvement Program
The Board also adopted the FY 2025-FY 2030 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) that totals over $3.5 billion for the six-year planning period and includes county and school projects. The category with the largest expenditure percentage is transportation projects at 40% followed by general government projects at 32% and school projects at 28%.
New county projects include the Cascades Library and Senior Center complex renovation, funding to begin preliminary design of an Eastern Loudoun Community Arts Center, and an addition to the Purcellville Fire and Rescue Station.
New transportation projects include Bull Run Post Office Road Realignment, Route 15/Hogback Mountain Road Roundabout, and an expanded scope of the Route 7 Improvements: Route 9 to Dulles Greenway Long Term Improvements project.
School projects include the addition of an Eastern Transportation Facility and a school replacement program.
Fiscal Year 2025
The FY 2025 budget will go into effect July 1, 2024. The real property tax rate of $0.865 per $100 assessed value and the personal property tax rate of $4.15 per $100 of assessed value are effective as of January 1, 2024, and will be used for the spring tax collection.
The complete adopted budget document will be posted on the county’s website by the start of FY 2025, which is July 1, 2024. Information about the county’s budget is posted at loudoun.gov/budget.
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Proposed Transmission Line Projects |
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During its April 2, 2024, meeting, the Loudoun County Board of Supervisors voted in favor of filing a “notice of participation” in Dominion Energy’s application to the State Corporation Commission (SCC) for construction of a new substation and new transmission lines that, if approved, would run along Route 7 in Loudoun County. The Board’s action will allow Loudoun County to join the case that is before the SCC and to provide input on the proposed power project.
“I have heard from many landowners throughout Loudoun County who are troubled regarding the path of transmissions lines—those landowners include houses of faith, homeowners, and businesses,” said Chair At-Large Phyllis J. Randall. “In addition, other stakeholders, such as environmental and preservation groups, have expressed concerns. Joining this case is an important move for the county to ensure residents and business owners in Loudoun have a seat at the table and a voice in the room as the SCC considers this application. Numerous challenges, such as weighing costs and the need for power in Loudoun, need to be addressed.”
Dominion’s proposal, known as the “Aspen-Golden 500-230 kV Electric Transmission Project,” includes a new 9.4-mile double circuit overhead transmission line (500 and 230 kilovolt) between the proposed Aspen and Golden substations and other associated infrastructure. The current application locates the proposed above-ground power lines from the area around Goose Creek and Belmont Ridge Road, along the south side of Route 7, and parallel to Loudoun County Parkway. Dominion has stated the project is necessary to maintain electricity reliability for the region.
“The Board wants to protect our environmental and heritage assets that are located around this proposed project, which is why we are supportive of burying the transmission lines along Route 7,” said Ashburn District Supervisor Michael R. Turner, who serves as chair of the Board’s Transportation and Land Use Committee. “We also recognize that the SCC must weigh a number of factors before making a decision. The Board’s action will help us protect the interests of the Loudoun community by ensuring the SCC hears all the relevant evidence regarding this project.”
In Virginia, the SCC must approve any proposed high voltage transmission lines prior to construction. Loudoun County officials encourage members of the public to monitor the opportunities for public comment offered by the SCC as it considers Dominion Energy’s application. More information about the status of the application is posted on the SCC’s website (Case #PUR-2024-00032). Once the SCC schedules a public comment period, information on how to provide input to the SCC will be posted on the agency’s website. In addition, the SCC is expected to hold public hearings for the proposal, during which county officials, local organizations and members of the public will be able to offer comments.
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Loudoun County is seeking grant applications from community organizations for the COVID-19 Vaccine Equity Program to support their strategies that ensure greater equity and access to COVID-19 vaccine for those populations disproportionately affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Loudoun County is extending the deadline for applications to 4:00 p.m., May 8, 2024.
The COVID-19 Vaccine Equity Program is designed to fund specific projects and initiatives to increase access to COVID-19 vaccination and increase the number of people vaccinated against COVID-19 among priority populations. The priority populations include, but are not limited to, those deemed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:
- People in racial and ethnic minority groups.
- People in rural communities.
- People who have disabilities.
- People who are homebound or isolated.
- People who are underinsured or uninsured.
- People who are immigrants and/or refugees.
- People who have transportation limitations.
Funding for the program, which will be administered by the Loudoun County Health Department, is supported through the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act and the American Rescue Plan Act.
Organizations eligible for funding include established nonprofit entities, such as community-based organizations, community health clinics, health care organizations, coalitions and faith-based organizations.
For More Information
Details about the grant program and the application process, including a recording of the pre-application webinar, may be found at loudoun.gov/grantopportunities.
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As warmer weather approaches, it is a perfect opportunity to tackle spring cleaning and projects around the house. As you clean, please remember some important safety recommendations from the Loudoun County Combined Fire and Rescue System.
Around the house
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Test and clean smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. We recommend testing smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors monthly and changing batteries regularly. If your smoke alarms are not working properly, call our smoke alarm program hotline at 703-737-8093 or visit loudoun.gov/smokealarms.
- Make sure all exits around the home and escape routes are clear of debris and are easily accessible.
- Reduce clutter in and around your home! Clear at least a three-foot space around your electrical panel, furnace, hot water heater, fireplace, space heaters and dryer.
- Have furnaces, chimneys and air conditioning units cleaned and inspected by a licensed professional.
- Check electrical outlets, extension cords and power strips to ensure they’re appropriately sized and are not overloaded. Remember, cords stretched across the floor can be a trip hazard!
- Store all cleaning products, household chemicals, paints, and poisons in properly marked containers safely out of children’s reach.
- If you smoke outside, use only an appropriate container for properly discarding smoking materials. Use a metal or ceramic pot filled with sand or water. NEVER use a container filled with soil or plants OR one made of anything flammable!
- Place smoking receptacles away from the house. NEVER place containers on the porch, deck, or just outside the door. Hot embers can smolder for days!
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Ensure all unused, unwanted, or expired medications are disposed of properly to prevent improper use and accidental exposure. The Loudoun County Sheriff's Office has drug collection units available at several locations throughout the County. Visit their website for a full list of collection locations and other disposal options.
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Loudoun County hosts numerous Household Hazardous Waste events each year for residents to safely dispose of used and unwanted household hazardous materials. View a list of events and acceptable items.
For an electronic and mobile friendly spring-cleaning safety checklist, visit SafeWise. Get additional fire prevention and life safety information by calling the Loudoun County Fire Marshal’s Office at 703-737-8600 or visiting loudoun.gov/firemarshal.
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The Loudoun County Fire and Rescue Fire Marshal’s Office (LCFR-FMO) investigation into the origin and cause of the home explosion that occurred on February 16, 2024, at 347 Silver Ridge Drive in Sterling remains ongoing.
LCFR-FMO has been working directly with representatives from Southern States Cooperative, Inc. – Leesburg – Fairfax Petroleum Service (“Southern States”) to review and update the company’s fire code related information. On March 12, 2024, the LCFR-FMO placed a temporary restriction on “Southern States”, prohibiting the delivery or transfer of propane within Loudoun County, Virginia, and the incorporated Towns within the County.
Necessary fire prevention code-related information has been updated and effective immediately, the LCFR-FMO has lifted the recent restrictions issued to “Southern States” and regular propane delivery is expected to resume on Tuesday, April 2, 2024.
The incident will remain under investigation until further notice. The LCFR-FMO will continue to work with Southern States throughout the remainder of the investigation process. The official cause classification will be communicated when the investigation is complete.
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Loudoun County’s annual Tourism Grant Program competitive process is underway with the posting of the Fiscal Year 2025 grant application at loudoun.gov/grantopportunities. The grant program is designed to support local tourism events and initiatives that drive tourists to Loudoun County.
Nonprofits, municipalities, and businesses located in Loudoun County are invited to apply for up to $25,000 in funding for tourism, marketing and hospitality-related projects that attract regional and national visitors to Loudoun County.
Loudoun County’s Tourism Grant Program is designed to support events and initiatives that bring more visitors to Loudoun County, increase overnight stays in Loudoun hotels, and enhance the overall attractiveness and marketability of Loudoun County as a destination. These may include new or existing attractions, events, program or marketing campaigns.
Funding from the program is to be spent solely on initiatives that increase tourism or qualifying tourism promotions consistent with state code and county policy.
Any organization interested in submitting a request for funds must complete the grant application online. Applications must be submitted by 4:00 p.m., Friday, May 3, 2024.
Pre-Application Webinar April 16
To assist organizations with understanding the application process, Loudoun County will host an informational webinar Tuesday, April 16, 2024, 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. Information on how to join the webinar is posted at loudoun.gov/grantopportunities.
For More Information
Questions about the grant application process may be directed to Darrell Simpson in the Department of Finance and Procurement by email or by phone at 571-258-3482. Details about the grant program, including a link to the application, are also available at loudoun.gov/grantopportunities.
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The Loudoun County Environmental Commission has announced the winners of its annual Environmental Excellence Awards, which honor individuals, businesses, nonprofit organizations and educators for their leadership on environmental issues. The awards were presented during the Board of Supervisors’ April 2, 2024, meeting.
The 2024 winners and categories are:
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Business: Orblynx Academy. The Ashburn-based academy provides STEM-based education and has a focus on sustainability, which helps students to understand and address environmental challenges.
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Citizen or Community Group: Lucketts Ruritan Club. The club promotes environmental awareness through community projects, including a weekly recycling service in partnership with Loudoun County.
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Educator: Manju Gomanthinayagam, Farmwell Station Middle School teacher. Gomanthinayagam founded the school’s Young Naturalist Club, which was instrumental in the school’s recognition by the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources as a Virginia Naturally School for its efforts to increase environmental literacy.
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Government Employee or Program/Team: Virginia Cooperative Extension – Loudoun. VCE-Loudoun, in collaboration with the Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Services, has launched a project at two county parks where tree saplings are temporarily planted in nursery-like gravel beds. This increases the survival rate for the young trees.
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Student: Emma Lloyd. The home-schooled 11th grader contributed nearly 100 hours of her time to stream monitoring and related educational outreach efforts in 2023. She initiated a signage program for stream crossings on the Washington & Old Dominion Trail. She has also inspired other students to become certified stream monitors.
This is the second year of the Environmental Excellence Awards program created by the Environmental Commission, which advises the Board of Supervisors and makes recommendations on policies and practices related to the environment, sustainability and energy management. Members of the commission include representatives from the community, industry and higher education.
Upcoming Energy & Environment Forum May 14
The Environmental Commission is holding its second annual Energy and Environment Forum Tuesday, May 14, 2024, 5:30 – 8:00 p.m., at the Academies of Loudoun, 42075 Loudoun Academy Drive, Leesburg. More information is online at loudoun.gov/environmentalforum.
Stay Informed
Anyone interested in energy and environmental news from the Loudoun County government may subscribe to the Environment & Energy category available from the Notify Me/News Flash section of the Loudoun County website. Subscribers can choose to receive email and/or text updates, news releases and other information of interest to residents and businesses regarding environmental topics.
More Information
More information about the county’s efforts to increase environmental sustainability and resilience for Loudoun residents and businesses is online at loudoun.gov/environment.
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The Loudoun County Department of Building and Development will be closed to the public on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, for staff training. As a result, in-person services and phone services will temporarily be suspended for one business day. Anything that is submitted online on April 24 will not be processed until Thursday, April 25, when the department will reopen for normal operations.
Online Services
The following online services will continue to be available in the county’s online land management system, LandMARC:
In addition to services in LandMARC, these other online services will be available:
In-Person Pickup
Members of the public may continue to pick up items in person through the Department of Building and Development’s pickup station, which is located in the Purcellville Room on the first floor of the Government Center. Following notice and receipt of instructions by county staff, the public may pick up items, such as permits and other documents provided by the county to residents, through this convenient, self-service system.
More Information
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Loudoun County Animal Services (LCAS) is seeking people willing to adopt rabbits after the agency received a record number of rabbits at once.
On Friday, April 5, 2024, LCAS received 43 rabbits, ranging from two days to two years old, from a Loudoun resident. The resident had initially acquired just three rabbits as pets, but their numbers grew rapidly in a short period of time. “Rabbits really can multiply incredibly quickly, and they start reproducing at just four months of age. In addition to significant health and behavioral benefits, this really demonstrates why spay and neuter of all pets, including rabbits, is so important,” says Animal Shelter Operations Manager Melissa Heard.
With this influx of rabbits, LCAS is in immediate need of adoptive homes. All rabbits are in the process of being spayed or neutered and will soon become available for adoption. To help prospective adopters learn more about rabbit care, LCAS is hosting a free “Rabbits 101” course on Thursday April 18, 2024, 6:00 - 07:00 p.m., where attendees will learn all about rabbit care and leave with a voucher to adopt a rabbit at no charge. For those who do not attend the class, the rabbit adoption fee is temporarily $25, and rabbits are “adopt one, receive a second free!”
In addition to adoptive homes, the LCAS shelter wish list has been updated to reflect the current needs of the animal care team in regard to the influx of rabbits.
Available rabbits can be seen online at loudoun.gov/animals. Those interested in adopting should visit the Animal Shelter during adoption hours, which are daily between 11:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. More information about the services and programs of LCAS may be found online at loudoun.gov/animals.
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During its April 10, 2024, meeting, the majority of the Loudoun County Board of Supervisors voted to approve a data center application known as the Belmont Innovation Campus. The Board previously had denied a version of the application on the same project that requested significantly more data center uses; however, the Board voted to reconsider the item after the applicant agreed to reduce the total square footage of data center uses in the project.
About the Application
The Board’s approval converts the 111-acre Belmont Innovation Campus site—located just southwest of Route 7 off of Belmont Ridge Road between Leesburg and Ashburn—to allow for the development of 1.3 million square feet of data center uses, an amount otherwise permitted by right under the existing zoning category.
The applicant committed to a number of environmental protections and to construct the project with higher architectural design standards than required by right and increased buffers between the facilities and the Goose Creek. In addition, the applicant has agreed to providing a passive open space park with a network of pedestrian trails and sidewalks as well as accommodating the future Gloucester Parkway extension, if constructed, and the Russell Branch Parkway extension.
April 10, 2024, Public Hearing
About Future Data Center Development
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Upcoming Opportunities &
Community Engagement
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The next Loudoun County Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) collection event is scheduled for Saturday, April 13, 2024, 8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., at the Harmony Park and Ride, 39464 East Colonial Highway in Hamilton. Loudoun residents are welcome to bring HHW from their homes to the event, free of charge.
What’s Accepted
- Typical HHW includes: fluorescent light bulbs, dry-cell batteries (alkaline, Ni-Cad, Lithium, rechargeable, etc, but no automobile batteries), oil-based paints and stains, varnish, paint thinner, mineral spirits, metal polish, rust remover, wood strippers and preservatives, furniture polish, waxes, sealants and solvents, bleach, pesticides, insecticides, herbicides, fertilizer, pool chemicals, muriatic acid, sulfuric acid, ammonia, mercury, mercury thermometers and thermostats, gasoline, expired fuel, auto cleaners and flushes, brake and transmission fluid, windshield washer fluid, fire extinguishers, moth balls, flea and tick products, photographic chemicals and other hobby chemicals.
- Anyone who has an item that is not on this list is encouraged to call the county’s Waste Management Division at 703-771-5500 to see if the item is accepted or if an alternate disposal option is needed.
- HHW should only be brought to the event location on the scheduled date and event time. Please do not drop off material at any unattended site.
- The limit per household is 15 gallons of liquid HHW (container size not to exceed 5-gallon), and 40 pounds of solid HHW (container size not to exceed 5-gallon).
- Participants should be able to provide proof of Loudoun County residency such as a driver’s license or utility bill.
What’s Not Accepted
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Motor oil, antifreeze, automobile batteries, propane tanks, helium tanks, CO2 tanks and cartridges, drywall compound and oil-based space heaters are not accepted at HHW collection events. These materials are accepted at the Loudoun County Solid Waste Management Facility (Loudoun County landfill), 21101 Evergreen Mills Road, Leesburg. Visit loudoun.gov/landfill for more information.
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Ammunition, explosives, fireworks, and gun powder are not accepted at HHW collection events. For information about disposal of these items, contact the Loudoun County Fire Marshal’s Office at 703-737-8600.
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Electronics are not accepted at HHW collection events. Information on how to properly dispose of unwanted electronics is online at loudoun.gov/electronics.
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Medical waste and medications are not accepted at HHW collection events. Disposal information is available at loudoun.gov/hhw.
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Latex or water-based paint is not hazardous and should be taken to the Loudoun County Solid Waste Management Facility (Loudoun County landfill), Monday through Saturday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; fee applies. Visit loudoun.gov/landfill for more information.
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Non-residential hazardous waste is not accepted. Businesses and organizations in Loudoun that generate less than 220 pounds of hazardous waste per month are encouraged to visit loudoun.gov/bhwp or call 703-771-5500 for information about the county’s Business Hazardous Waste Collection Program.
Event Procedures
Because of safety concerns related to the handling of various types of hazardous materials, the events feature a drive-through process in which residents are instructed to remain in their vehicles and allow event staff to unload any items accepted for disposal. To ensure everyone remains in their vehicle while at the point of service, items must not be in sealed or tied plastic bags. Staff are not allowed to open any plastic bag containing HHW.
Future Loudoun County HHW Events (All events are on Saturdays, 8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.)
- May 11, 2024, One Loudoun Park and Ride, 20360 Savin Hill Drive, Ashburn
- June 22, 2024, Freedom High School, 25450 Riding Center Drive, South Riding
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View the 2024 schedule of HHW events.
HHW Contact Information
For more information about the Loudoun County Household Hazardous Waste Program, call 703-771-5500 or visit loudoun.gov/hhw.
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The Loudoun County Art Advisory Committee will present a group exhibition by fourteen Loudoun County artists, titled Our Planet, Our Future, from April 1-30, 2024. The artwork will be displayed in Gallery One, located in the lobby of the Loudoun County Government Center, 1 Harrison Street SE in Leesburg.
Our Planet, Our Future is an exhibit of Loudoun County artists in honor of Earth Day. It showcases artwork that embodies an eco-friendly planet. Our Planet, Our Future features a wide variety of mediums from collages to oil paintings. The artwork is available for public viewing during regular business hours, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Gallery One exhibits are coordinated by the Loudoun County Art Advisory Committee, appointed by the Loudoun County Board of Supervisors. The committee is responsible for exhibiting work by Loudoun artists and maintaining and exhibiting the county's permanent art collection. For more information about the committee, visit loudoun.gov/advisory-art.
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Loudoun County offers ongoing mental health education and substance abuse prevention trainings. All trainings are free, but seats are limited and registration is required, with the exception of Rapid REVIVE! The schedule of upcoming classes for April and May 2024 is as follows:
Adverse Childhood Experiences Training
Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) training aims to raise awareness of the impact of potentially traumatic events that occur in childhood. ACEs are linked to chronic health problems, mental illness and substance abuse in adulthood. The training teaches that ACEs prevention is a key to improving a community’s well-being. The virtual training presentation lasts about one hour. Discussion and a question-and-answer session will follow the presentation.
The next class will be held:
- Monday, April 22, 2024, 12:00 – 1:30 p.m.
Mental Health First Aid
Mental Health First Aid offers training that teaches people how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illness and substance use disorders. The training also teaches the skills that someone needs to reach out and provide initial help and support to someone who may be developing a mental health or substance use problem or experiencing a crisis. There are two versions of the program, a general adult program and a program for adults who interact with youth. The trainings are usually held over a two-day period, with the class lasting for about three hours each day.
The next trainings will be held:
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Adult Mental Health First Aid (In-Person): April 25 & 26, 2024, 9:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. each day. The in-person training will be at the Loudoun County Department of Mental Health, Substance Abuse and Developmental Services office located at 21641 Ridgetop Circle, Suite 210, Sterling, VA 20166.
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Youth Mental Health First Aid (Virtual) – For Adults Who Interact with Youth: April 22, 2024, 10:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. The training will include a lunch break from 12:15 – 12:45 p.m.
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Youth Mental Health First Aid (In-Person) – For Adults Who Interact with Youth: May 22, 2024, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. The in-person training will be at the Loudoun County Department of Mental Health, Substance Abuse and Developmental Services office located at 21641 Ridgetop Circle, Suite 210, Sterling, VA 20166. The training will include a 30-minute lunch break.
Opioid Overdose Reversal
REVIVE! is the opioid overdose and naloxone education program for the Commonwealth of Virginia. The training is free and anyone who uses opioids or knows someone who is using opioids is encouraged to attend a training. Loudoun County offers two versions of the program - Rapid REVIVE! and Virtual REVIVE!
Rapid REVIVE! is a shortened format that allows individuals to complete the training in six minutes. After watching a short video and then providing their contact information, participants receive free naloxone nasal spray. They may choose to receive naloxone by mail or arrange pickup. Rapid REVIVE! is available anytime. No registration is required.
Virtual REVIVE! is a one-hour, scheduled training session that requires registration. Participants who complete the training are also eligible to receive free naloxone nasal spray. They may choose to receive naloxone by mail or arrange pickup.
The next scheduled trainings will be held:
- Friday, April 19, 2024, 12:00 – 1:00 p.m.
- Monday, May 20, 2024, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.
REVIVE! trainings can also be scheduled upon request. For details about the training and to register, visit loudoun.gov/revive.
Suicide Prevention Training
Question Persuade Refer (QPR) training helps people recognize the warning signs of a suicide crisis and how to refer someone for professional help. The suicide prevention training teaches three simple steps that anyone can learn to help save a life from suicide; Question, Persuade and Refer. The virtual training presentation lasts about one hour. Discussion and practice opportunities will follow the presentation.
The next classes will be held:
- Thursday, April 18, 2024, 12:00 – 1:30 p.m.
- Thursday, May 23, 2024, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
For More Information
For more information on the prevention and intervention services offered by the Loudoun County Department of Mental Health, Substance Abuse and Developmental Services, visit loudoun.gov/mhsadsprevention or send an email.
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Loudoun County is hosting an online meeting April 18, 2024, to provide information to the public on the Ryan Road Widening project between Evergreen Mills Road (Route 621) and Beaverdam Drive (Route 2475). The public information meeting will be held Thursday, April 18, 2024, from 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. Members of the public are invited to join the virtual meeting to learn, ask questions and provide input about the project.
Login information and meeting materials are available for review at loudoun.gov/ryanroadwidening. Meeting materials include a preliminary design as well as speaker sign-up and comment forms. Members of the public must sign up in advance to ask questions during the event by April 17, 2024, at 12:00 p.m. Online participants may also send questions to the project team as Q&A messages, which will be answered during the meeting as time allows.
This project provides for the planning, design, right-of-way acquisition and widening of Ryan Road between Evergreen Mills Road and Beaverdam Drive. Ryan Road will be widened as a four-lane, median-divided roadway with shared use paths on both sides of the road. The scope of work also includes modifications at the Evergreen Mills Road intersection to accommodate the four-lane roadway.
For more information about the proposed Ryan Road widening project, including a link to sign up for updates about the project and details about the upcoming public meeting, visit loudoun.gov/ryanroadwidening.
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Celebrate our planet at the Loudoun County Parks, Recreation and Community Services (PRCS) annual Earth Day Loudoun on Saturday, April 20, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Claude Moore Park.
Enjoy this free, family-friendly festival with music, games, and food for purchase while discovering ways to live more sustainably. Learn about environmental issues through hands-on activities and nature-themed crafts, participate in educational demonstrations, and meet the park’s ambassador animals.
Visitors are asked to use the Loudoun Park Lane entrance for the event with parking available at the Loudoun Heritage Farm Museum. Earth Day Loudoun will be hosted rain or shine. In the case of severe weather, a cancellation notice will be posted on the Loudoun County website at loudoun.gov/prcs and PRCS social media accounts.
For more information on Earth Day Loudoun and other great PRCS Earth Day events and programs, visit PRCS Connect.
Throughout the year, PRCS provides programs and spaces for environmental stewardship and fosters sustainability practices through conservation awareness and education.
About Claude Moore Park
Claude Moore Park is located at 21544 Old Vestals Gap Road in Sterling. Claude Moore Park provides a unique green space in eastern Loudoun. Visitors to the park discover wooded lanes, green meadows, and sparkling ponds while catching a glimpse of wildlife that make their homes in the park's habitats. Natural areas provide peaceful surroundings for hikes, picnics, bird watching, and photography.
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The Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) invites all county residents to attend its quarterly public information safety meetings at each of the agency’s four service areas beginning later this month.
Topics will include recent crimes and trends in the area, traffic safety, and other public safety-related concerns.
The meetings will be led by a Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office Captain who represents the service area. Sheriff Mike Chapman or a member of the LCSO leadership team will also be present.
- Tuesday, April 23, 2024, at 7 p.m., Western Loudoun Station, 47 W. Loudoun Street, Round Hill
- Thursday, April 25, 2024, at 7 p.m., Dulles South Public Safety Center, 25216 Loudoun County Parkway, Chantilly
- Tuesday, April 30, at 7 p.m., Ashburn Station, 20272 Savin Hill Drive, Ashburn
- Wednesday, May 1, at 7 p.m., Eastern Loudoun Station, 46620 E. Frederick Drive, Sterling
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April 27, 2024
7:30 PM - Concert (St. David's Episcopal Church, Ashburn)
9:00 PM - Reception (Lansdowne Resort, Leesburg)
Join the LSO for a celebration of Leonard Bernstein's life and music at this special event which benefits the Loudoun Symphony Orchestra and Loudoun Symphony Youth Orchestra Program. The concert features music performed during the 2023 film Maestro, which explores Bernstein's passionate and tumultuous relationship with actress Felicia Montealegre.
The program will also include West Side Story -- the timeless musical story of love and landmark piece of musical theatre!
Tickets are $75 for the concert or $150 for the concert plus an all-inclusive post-concert reception at Lansdowne Resort.
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Registration is now open for the Spring 2024 Virginia Cooperative Extension – Loudoun water testing program, which provides water testing for wells, cisterns or springs at a reduced cost. The number of sample kits available is limited, so residents are encouraged to sign up as soon as possible.
Through this program, a water testing kit costs $70. A comparable analysis at a private commercial lab would cost more than $300.
The program tests for the following water quality parameters: Iron, manganese, nitrate, lead, arsenic, fluoride, sulfate, pH, total dissolved solids, hardness, sodium, copper, total coliform bacteria and E. coli bacteria.
How Does the Program Work?
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Register and pay for your sample kit(s) here.
- Monday, April 29, 2024, 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Pick up your sample kit at the VCE Loudoun office, 750 Miller Drive SE, Suite 161, Leesburg.
- Wednesday, May 1, 2024, 7:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m., Drop samples off outside the VCE Loudoun office, 750 Miller Dr. SE, Suite 161, Leesburg.
Samples are then analyzed at Virginia Tech’s Research Lab. Participants will receive their confidential results, an explanation of what they mean, and information about addressing any problems via email about six weeks after the sample drop off.
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The Loudoun County Disability Services Board, The Arc of Loudoun and the Loudoun County Workforce Resource Center will co-host a Disability Resource and Employment Fair, Friday, May 3, 2024, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., at Claude Moore Recreation & Community Center, 46105 Loudoun Park Lane, Sterling.
The free event is intended to highlight a wide variety of community resources available to people with disabilities as well as employment opportunities. Participating organizations will include representatives of the Loudoun County government as well as organizations that provide educational, employment and recreational opportunities to Loudoun residents.
Resource and Employment Fair Organizers
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The Loudoun County Disability Services Board advises the Board of Supervisors on issues of importance to people with disabilities, their families and caregivers.
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The Arc of Loudoun, based in Leesburg, advocates for, educates, serves and supports people with disabilities and their families.
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The Loudoun Workforce Resource Center provides no-cost resources and equipment to both job seekers and businesses, connecting job seekers and employers, to help them achieve their employment goals.
Anyone who requires a reasonable accommodation for any type of disability or needs language assistance in order to participate in the Disabilities Resource and Employment Fair should contact Loudoun County Public Affairs and Communications at 703-777-0113 or by email. Three business days’ notice is requested.
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Loudoun County continues to offer free professional development opportunities for nonprofits serving Loudoun County residents, with new trainings scheduled for May and June. The opportunities include an introductory training open to all nonprofits and a specialized series of trainings, which will be open to a maximum of five organizations.
Grants 101 Introductory Session: Pre-Proposal Activities
The Grants 101 Introductory Session: Pre-Proposal Activities training will provide guidance on government grant seeking and application management best practices for local nonprofits. Loudoun County government staff will provide an overview of pre-proposal activities such as prospecting and standard grant proposal components. Participants will gain an understanding of what makes a strong government grant proposal and how to set their organization up for success with government grants. This training may be attended by individuals as well as teams.
- May 7, 2024, 10-11:30 a.m. - Virtual
Spring Professional Development Grant Cohort
Nonprofit organizations that serve Loudoun County residents are encouraged to apply for the Spring Professional Development Grant Cohort, which will explore the various facets of government grant seeking and proposal development. Participants will develop proposals in response to relevant funding notices over a series of in-person training sessions at the Loudoun County Government Center during a six-week period in May and June. At the end of the six weeks, organizations will have a complete set of standard proposal components and a tailored application package for a relevant state or federal government funding opportunities for their organization. The training is free, but space is limited to five organizations. Nonprofits working to create a systematic development program are encouraged to apply.
Descriptions of the individual sessions and a link to the application for the cohort may be found at loudoun.gov/GrantTraining.
More Information
The professional development opportunities listed above are part of the county’s efforts to help nonprofits and their staff to develop stronger grant applications; hone the skills and knowledge needed to find, apply for and receive grants; learn from subject matter experts and their peers; and receive technical assistance on a broad range of topics.
To sign up for email and text messages from the county regarding information of interest to local nonprofit organizations, including county grant and professional development opportunities, visit loudoun.gov/GrantTraining.
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Loudoun County will host two pit stops in Leesburg and Sterling for Bike to Work Day on Friday, May 17, 2024. This free annual event celebrates a healthy and fun way to get to work with over 100 different pit stops throughout the Washington Metropolitan area. Participants will bike to a pit stop, pick-up a free T-shirt and giveaways, and enjoy refreshments before beginning their workday.
New and experienced bicycle commuters are encouraged to register online before the event and ride to one of Loudoun County’s pit stops. Both pit stop locations are adjacent to the Washington and Old Dominion (W&OD) Trail:
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Leesburg: Raflo Park, 345 Harrison St. SE, 6:30 - 9:00 a.m.
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Sterling: Just east of Route 28 at 183 Ruritan Road behind Northrop Grumman, 6:30 - 9:00 a.m.
A third pit stop in Loudoun County will be hosted by Full Distance Physical Therapy & Wellness:
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Purcellville: 130 S. 20th St., 7:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Participants are invited to share their photos by tagging Loudoun County social media pages and adding the hashtag #BTWD2024.
Bike to Work Day is coordinated regionally by the Washington Area Bicyclist Association and Commuter Connections and is held rain or shine. The annual event attracts thousands of cyclists throughout the region. The local festivities are planned by Loudoun County Transit and Commuter Services.
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LandMARC Progress Updates |
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On August 14, 2023, Loudoun County launched LandMARC (Land Management, Applications, Research, Coordination). LandMARC is the county's online land management system. More information about LandMARC can be found here.
Stay Informed
Beginning September 26, 2023 there will continue to be twice-weekly updates to share the progress in processing permits. These updates will be posted online at Loudoun.gov/bdpermits. The link to this information is also posted in the LandMARC self-service portal. Loudoun.gov/LandMARC remains the landing page for all industry to get information about the system, including system status, help and how-to guides, and read important updates on the LandMARC blog.
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Legislative Applications for Development in the Ashburn District (Focused) |
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Reminder: All items appearing on the agenda of a BOS Public Hearing will be placed into one of the following sections: “Hearing of New Items,” “Hearing of Returning Items Ready for Action,” and “Adoption of the Consolidated Agenda.”
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Hearing of New Items: Unless the Board sends an item from this section to a standing committee, or votes to suspend its rules, the default “next step” for these items is to be forwarded to a future BOS Public Hearing for action.
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Hearing of Returning Items Ready for Action: Items that have appeared on the agenda of a previous BOS Public Hearing will be placed in the section of the agenda titled “Hearing of Returning Items Ready for Action.”
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Approval of Consolidated Agenda: At the beginning of the consolidated public hearing, the Chair will announce the individual items proposed for the consolidated agenda. After a call for public speakers has been made, the BOS may act on each item, without voting to suspend its rules. If there are speakers for an item on the consolidated agenda, the item will be removed from the consolidated agenda and placed on the standard public hearing agenda. To qualify for placement on the consolidated agenda, an item must have unanimous support from the BOS, as well as a recommendation of approval from county staff and the planning commission. “New” or “returning” items may be added to the consolidated agenda if the above criteria are met.
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Arcola Farms Residential
Application Number: LEGI-2023-0034
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Description: “Arcola Farms Residential” is a proposed application in Ashburn and Little River Districts to rezone 80.8 acres to allow the construction of three hundred and seven (307) single-family detached residential units. The residents are currently zoned to Sycolin Creek Elementary School, Brambleton Middle School, and Independence High School.
Status remains the same since the 03/29/2024 Newsletter: This application is scheduled to come to the May 15th Board of Supervisors Public Hearing.
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Previous Update: At the February 8th, Planning Commission Work Session, the Planning Commission voted to send this application to a future Board of Supervisors Public Hearing.
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Previous Update: At the December 18th, Planning Commission Public Hearing, the Planning Commission voted to send this application to the February 8th, Planning Commission Work Session
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Previous Update: This application is scheduled to come to the December 18th, Planning Commission Public Hearing.
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Previous Update: County staff from multiple departments are reviewing this application with the applicant.
For more information on this application, click here. To review the application documents, scroll down to the middle of the page and click the “Attachments” tab. To leave a public comment for county staff, click here. Supervisor Turner also invites you to share your thoughts and opinions about this application with him via email at mike.turner@loudoun.gov.
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Goose Creek Village West
Application Number: LEGI-2023-0038
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Description: “Goose Creek Village West” is a proposed application to rezone 20 acres (revised from 25 acres) to allow for the construction of an additional 222 residential units. These include 104 single-family attached units, and 46 multi-family stacked units, and 72 multi-family attached units. The residents are currently zoned to Belmont Station Elementary School, Trailside Middle School, and Stone Bridge High School.
Status remains the same since the 02/16/2024 Newsletter: This application is now scheduled to come to the April 23rd, Planning Commission Public Hearing.
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Previous Update: This application is scheduled to come to the March 26th, Planning Commission Public Hearing.
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Previous Update: County staff from multiple departments are reviewing this application with the applicant.
For more information on this application, click here. To review the application documents, scroll down to the middle of the page and click the “Attachments” tab. To leave a public comment for county staff, click here. Supervisor Turner also invites you to share your thoughts and opinions about this application with via email at mike.turner@loudoun.gov.
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Trailside Park
Application Number: LEGI-2023-0083
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Description: “Trailside Park” is an application to establish a 150-foot-tall monopole telecommunications tower, as well as a supporting equipment compound, that will be located separately from the tower, in a secure fenced area.
Status remains the same since the 03/15/2024 Newsletter: This application is now scheduled to come to the April 23rd Planning Commission Public Hearing. It was previously scheduled to appear before the Planning Commission on March 26th.
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Previous Update: This application is scheduled to come to the March 26th Planning Commission Public Hearing.
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Previous Update: County staff from multiple departments are reviewing this application with the applicant.
For more information on this application, click here. To review the application documents, scroll down to the middle of the page and click the “Attachments” tab. To leave a public comment for county staff, click here. Supervisor Turner also invites you to share your thoughts and opinions about this application with him via email at mike.turner@loudoun.gov.
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Belmont Innovation Campus
Application Number: LEGI-2023-0048
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Updated Description: “Belmont Innovation Campus” is a revised application that reduced the square footage of a data center by 2.6 million square feet to 1.3 million square feet. Also included in their revised proposal is that they will retain all proffers relating to environmental protections, enhanced design standards and removal of the second substation. The data center cannot exceed 1.3 million square feet on the 111 acres of land. The applicant, like all applicants, can submit a future application to change this agreement but this must go through another public process and be considered by the Board of Supervisors. Please note that the by-right square footage for a data center on these parcels is 1.3 million square feet.
An earlier proposal for a 3.9 million square foot data center was denied by the Board of Supervisors at the March 13th Public Hearing.
New Update: The Board of Supervisors voted to approve this application at the April 10th Board of Supervisors Public Hearing.
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Previous Update: At the March 19th Board of Supervisors Business Meeting, the Board approved a motion to reconsider this application at the April 10th Board of Supervisors Public Hearing. The motion for reconsideration came because the applicant offered to reduce the total square footage of the data centers to the maximum square footage that would be allowed under by-right regulations.
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Previous Update: The Board of Supervisors voted to deny this application at the March 13th Board of Supervisors Public Hearing.
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Previous Update: At the January 10th, Board of Supervisors Public Hearing, the Board of Supervisors voted to send this application to the March 13th Board of Supervisors Public Hearing for action.
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Previous Update: At the September 26th, Planning Commission Public Hearing, the Planning Commission voted to send this application to the January 10th (2024) Board of Supervisors Public Hearing.
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Previous Update: The application for the Belmont Innovation Campus (LEGI-2023-0048) is scheduled to come to the September 26th, Planning Commission Public Hearing.
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Previous Update: County staff from multiple departments are reviewing this application with the applicant.
For more information on this application, click here. To review the application documents, scroll down to the middle of the page and click the “Attachments” tab. To leave a public comment for county staff, click here. Supervisor Turner also invites you to share your thoughts and opinions about this application with him via email at mike.turner@loudoun.gov.
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VDOT 511
511 provides users with real-time, accurate traffic information from the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) about road conditions, traffic congestion, and highway construction anywhere you are, anytime you need it.
More information on VDOT 511 can be found here.
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Online Process for Building Permits, Land Development Applications
Homeowners and residential contractors can submit their completed application form and supporting documentation, including drawings and plats, in PDF format for most residential construction projects to the Department of Building and Development online. More information about the online submission process and requirements is available here.
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Residential Traffic Calming Guide
Loudoun County’s Department of Transportation and Capital Infrastructure (DTCI) manages an eight-phase process to address traffic calming, which considers residents’ concerns regarding speeding, safety and overall quality of life on publicly-maintained residential streets.
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Who Maintains my Street?
To identify which entity responsible for maintaining your road/street, Loudoun County made an online color coded mapping system which helps residents determine who to contact when work needs to be done.
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Report a road problem
VDOT created an easy to use online form to report unsafe and hazardous road conditions. Similarly, work requests for state-maintained roads can also be made here.
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Paving Schedule
VDOT reports what roads will be paved during the fiscal year and updates their website with progress updates.
Find VDOT's Paving Schedule here.
VDOT has completed updates to this webpage with information about VDOT's 2024 paving schedule. In a previous newsletter, we announced that this webpage was down for maintenance.
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As your representative on the Loudoun County Board of Supervisors, my top priority has been to serve your needs and work towards the betterment of our community. Please don’t hesitate to contact me directly or my staff with any input and ideas you may have for the Ashburn District. The best way to reach me is by email, which I monitor on a regular basis.
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Rachael Mai
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Chief of Staff
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Joel Gicker
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Legislative Aide
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