Board Delays Sports Tourism Progress for Equity Review

June 9, 2022

In this Issue…

Board Delays Sports Tourism Progress for One Fairfax Study - At our recent Board meeting, I presented a motion jointly with Supervisor John Foust and Supervisor Kathy Smith to advertise that the County is open to receiving public private partnership proposals for sports tourism facilities that align with the recommendations of the in-depth Sports Tourism Task Force Consultant’s Report. This next step was the consensus of a multi-year process involving many community meetings with youth leagues as well as meetings of the Sports Tourism Task Force and the Economic Advisory Commission which are comprised of local businesses, representatives from FCPS, the Athletic Council, the Park Authority, County agencies, and multiple members of the Board of Supervisors. Unfortunately, that progress stopped when Chairman McKay made a substitute motion to have staff conduct an equity review and study the “equity impact” of potential facilities to come back to the Board by the end of this year. I can support study-driven initiatives; however, when I see the Board ask for studies on issues that we have already studied, ignore the results of studies we have asked for, and hold double standards on which initiatives need to undergo a study delay, I find these delays unacceptable. We started this process in 2017 and it would be a shame for us to come this far, only to lose these opportunities to surrounding jurisdictions due to delay. Below I’ll share more about the exciting opportunities sports tourism will bring to all residents in Fairfax County (including a diversified tax base and hopefully lower taxes) as well as a caveat on the Board continuing a trend of delaying commonsense initiatives.

Other News and Information

Upcoming Classes from West Springfield District Station (June 15^th and 16th)
Summer Concert Series (July-August)
Secure Document Shredding @ Rolling Valley Park and Ride (July 23^rd)
Fairfax County National Night Out (August 2^nd)

Board Delays Sports Tourism for One Fairfax Study

At our recent Board meeting, I presented a motion jointly with Supervisor John Foust and Supervisor Kathy Smith to advertise that the County is open to receiving public private partnership proposals for sports tourism facilities that align with the recommendations of the in-depth Sports Tourism Task Force Consultant’s Report. While the cost of developing the identified sports tourism facilities is significant, the payback timeline identified in the consultant’s report demonstrates that these are a great investment. Unfortunately, the County’s bonding capacity is already largely allocated to other projects. Therefore, pursuing public private partnerships was the consensus of many community meetings with youth leagues as well as meetings of the Sports Tourism Task Force and the Economic Advisory Commission which are comprised of local businesses, representatives from FCPS, the Athletic Council, Visit Fairfax, the Park Authority, County agencies, and multiple members of the Board of Supervisors. Unfortunately, that progress stopped when Chairman McKay made a substitute motion to have staff conduct an equity review and study the “equity impact” of potential facilities to come back to the Board by the end of this year. I can support study-driven initiatives; however, when I see the Board ask for studies on issues that we have already studied, ignore the results of studies we have asked for, and hold double standards on which initiatives need to undergo a study delay, I find these delays unacceptable. We started this process in 2017 and it would be a shame for us to come this far, only to lose these opportunities to surrounding jurisdictions due to delay. See my Board matter for a brief history of that process.

One key takeaway from our consultant’s report is that sports tourism in Fairfax County would benefit all residents. The report is lengthy, considering extensive community feedback, east coast market factors, community use, and outlining five priority facilities the County is uniquely positioned to benefit from developing as well as identifying potential sites. The pay back from those opportunities are very exciting:

Local leagues will have additional facilities to use during the week.
Local businesses will see much-needed additional revenue, particularly hotels and restaurants.
Sports tourism revenues have been shown to be recession proof and diversify our tax base.
Taxpayers should see their taxes lowered due to sales and commercial revenue.
Job creation for facilities and local businesses.
Enhancement and expansion of existing community facilities.
Less time and money traveling spent by Fairfax County families going to tournaments in other parts of Virginia or the country.
More access for families as savings from participating in local tournaments may drive down the cost for some local travel teams.

On the flip side, the consultant’s report also highlighted some challenges for sports in Fairfax County including:

Limited Open Space for Development - Most of the open space identified in the report is County owned land in the western end of the County. However, that does not preclude private developers from looking at private property for sale in other parts of the County.
Existing Infrastructure Needs – Many of existing fields/facilities in Fairfax County require improvement, renovation and/or redevelopment.

These challenges highlight two realities; first, that if the County wants to benefit from sports tourism, available space and Fairfax County based hospitality resources to support them are key factors in where these facilities are able to be built and they may not be interspersed throughout the County. With the benefits listed above, that does not mean that only certain communities in Fairfax County will benefit from the facilities. For example, Fairfax Peak is a sports tourism project in the interim agreement stage to be built off the I-95 landfill in Lorton, but when it is completed taxpayers across the County will benefit from the over $1 million in tax revenue and high school teams from all areas of the County will be able to ski there. If they are not built – no one benefits.

The second reality is that we need to improve our current facilities throughout the County and like all improvements, that costs money. As the McLean Citizens’ Association Budget Resolution highlighted during our most recent budget public hearings, the County has not prioritized facility maintenance. If the community is willing, public private partnerships provide an avenue for the County to finally improve those facilities, have private developers foot the bill, and further generate revenue for facility maintenance by expanding the facilities to be able to accommodate tournaments. Beyond needing facility maintenance, the County lacks some sport facilities altogether, like a basic indoor track for our high school teams. Holding up the development of sports tourism facilities until we update existing facilities is short-sighted and counterproductive. We can always do both, but we shouldn’t rule out one for the other when they can work in tandem.

If you care about these opportunities for Fairfax County, I encourage you to take a look at the consultant’s report and reach out to your Supervisor as well as the Chairman’s office with your feedback.

This brings me to my final thought. I have been pushing back on the Board delaying efforts that range from critical issues to valuable opportunities. Most recently, the Board delayed efforts to address the critical public safety issue of panhandling, citing the need for another study to determine what our previous study had already addressed (see my May newsletter). They delayed fixing identified police pay issues despite critical staffing shortages and data on where the pay issues exist. They delayed addressing the machinery and tools tax issue that was a barrier for breweries in Fairfax County. They delayed senior tax relief. I have been effectively raising these issues which my colleagues are finally agreeing to act on, but only after unnecessary delays often resulting in partial solutions. Opportunities for public private partnerships are already knocking on our door and I believe exploring those to build sports tourism facilities for the benefit of all residents is the right thing to do. I plan to continue to pursue those efforts until they are successful.

Other News and Information

Upcoming Classes from West Springfield District Station (June 15^th and 16th)
Summer Concert Series (July-August)
Secure Document Shredding @ Rolling Valley Park and Ride (July 23^rd)
Fairfax County National Night Out (August 2^nd)
LymeX Diagnostics Prize Submissions (August 8^th)
Hoarding Awareness Information
Four-Legged Friend

Other News and Information

Upcoming Classes from West Springfield District Station (June 15^th, 16^th,23^rd,25^th, 29^th)

The West Springfield Police Station is offering the following classes in June. I highly encourage you to attend.

Hidden in Plain Sight (June 15, 2022 6:30PM)-Hidden in Plain Sight (HIPS) is a community awareness program to educate parents and caregivers on the current trends and signs of risky behavior in the teenage population. This 1 1/2 hour long program, on June 15, 2022 at 6:30PM, utilizes props, discussion and a PowerPoint presentation to review alcohol, tobacco, vape and narcotic use. We will also discuss mental health issues, sexual, and other risky behaviors. The program concludes with a discussion on communication strategies to help you talk with your child. This program is open to adult audiences only. We will be discussing sensitive topics that a parent can use to create an open dialogue with their children. Please use the Eventbrite link below to register for the training. The training will be held at the West Springfield District Governmental Center Community Room (6140 Rolling Road, Springfield, VA) If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to MPO Tony Capizzi at 703-277-2363 or anthony.capizzi@fairfaxcounty.gov. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/hidden-in-plain-sight-tickets-348227807747

Let's Talk (June 16, 2022 6:30PM)-

Did you know the West Springfield District Station covers over 66 square miles, has over 200,000 community members, 40 public schools, 70 houses of worship, around 110 police officers, and ten different patrol areas? If you would like to know more about the district, crime prevention, or just have questions, join this Zoom call on Thursday, June 16, 2022, at 6:30PM for a community meeting. If you have any questions before the meeting, contact MPO Tony Capizzi at 703-277-2363.

Topic: West Springfield District Let's Talk Meeting

Time: Jun 16, 2022 06:30 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)

https://fairfaxcounty.zoom.us/j/87513100614?pwd=SE1hdlduYnZQMy81aHdnWkgzL3VNdz09

Password: 667455

Introduction to Neighborhood Watch (June 23, 2022 6:30PM)-Would you like to know what Neighborhood Watch is? How can it help your community? Would you like to know how to start a Neighborhood Watch in your community? Do you want a refresher on the Neighborhood Watch program? Join the Introduction to Neighborhood Watch Zoom presentation on Thursday, June 23, 2022, at 6:30PM. Police will discuss the Neighborhood Watch program, how it works, how it benefits your community and how to get your community ready to volunteer. Use the Zoom link below to join. If you have any questions, contact MPO Tony Capizzi from the West Springfield Station at 703-277-2363.

Topic: West Springfield Introduction to Neighborhood Watch

Time: Jun 23, 2022 06:30 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)

https://fairfaxcounty.zoom.us/j/81113016969?pwd=aFloNDJrR1dxdHVIb2JsaXdIQnVJZz09

Password: 360581

Civilian Response to Active Shooter Event along with Stop the Bleed-IN PERSON (June 25, 2022 9:00AM-12:00PM)-

While we all hope it never happens, an active violence event can take place anywhere in the world. The community needs to be prepared with how to respond, and we are here to help with that training. This hour and a half lecture will help participants learn about attackers, disaster response, and how to prepare for and respond to being trapped in a building during an active violence event. Police will review past events; the steps law enforcement will take to assist and limit casualties and be there to answer your questions. This training is open to anyone in the community, but some of the material may be disturbing.

STOP THE BLEED training will also take place after the CRASE training. STOP THE BLEED is an hour long class that helps students learn about direct pressure, wound packing and tourniquets with Powerpoint and hands on practical skills.

The training will take place in the community room of the West Springfield Governmental Center at 6140 Rolling Road, Springfield, VA. Please use the Eventbrite link to gain entry, there are limited seats. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/civilian-response-to-active-shooter-events-and-stop-the-bleed-tickets-349738385927

If you have any questions about the training, feel free to contact MPO Tony Capizzi at the West Springfield District Station at 703-277-2363.

Civilian Response to Active Shooter Events - VIRTUAL- (June 29, 2022 6:30PM)-

If you have any questions about the training, feel free to contact MPO Tony Capizzi at the West Springfield District Station at 703-277-2363.

Topic: Civilian Response to Active Shooter Events

Time: Jun 29, 2022 06:30 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)

https://fairfaxcounty.zoom.us/j/81314425021?pwd=elc0SGpyRUVCZWlPTDJ5UXJxNlJ3UT09

Password: 119799

Summer Concert Series (July-August)

Free Concerts in the Park Series at Burke Lake Park– I am very excited to announce the fourth year of the Free Concerts in the Park series at Burke Lake Park This is one of my favorite events to host each year as I partner with our parks and local businesses to bring you seven free concerts at Springfield’s own nationally ranked Burke Lake Park. Mark your calendars and plan to come out to Burke Lake Park every Wednesday night at 7pm starting July 13th through August 24th for an incredible line-up of bands, food trucks, 2 Silos beer, and Peterson’s Ice Cream. The atmosphere is informal, so bring a picnic dinner, blankets and lawn chairs, and relax with friends and family. I am again partnering with the Fairfax County Park Authority, the Park Authority Foundation, our sponsors and 2 Silos Brewery to host this seven-show series with free music and delicious food and drink options. This year we are also partnering with Celebrate Fairfax to bring you two family fun events right before the concerts on July 13th and 20th. These Celebrate Fairfax @ Springfield Nights family fun nights will start at 5pm and run until the concert begins at 7pm. Kids will have the chance to get a balloon creation from Sam the Balloon Man, see mind-bending optical illusions and bubbling potions with Mad Science, and be amazed by Drew Blue Shoes Magician. I hope you and your kids come to enjoy the fun before you settle in for the show on July 13th and 20th. I’ll have more updates for you on Celebrate Fairfax @ Springfield Nights as we get closer to July.

I’m very excited about this year’s concert line-up with returning crowd favorites and the new addition of Speidel, Goodrich, Goggin & Lille. Here is the full line-up:

JULY

13 Randy Thompson Band (Americana Country, Roots Rock)

20 The English Channel (Top 60’/70’ British Hits)

27 The Skip Castro Band (Party Band)

AUGUST

3 Practically Einstein (Vintage Rock)

10 The Road Ducks (Southern Rock)

17 Speidel, Goodrich, Goggin & Lille (Rock)

24 The Colin Thompson Band (Blues Rock)

Many thanks to our sponsors including: Transurban, Dominion Energy, Peterson Companies, Sheehy Automotive, Wegmans, Glory Days Grill, Interstate Van Lines, NOVEC, Great American Restaurants, Paisano’s, and West Springfield Car Care. This free concert series would not happen without their contributions. I look forward to seeing you this summer!

Secure Document Shredding at Rolling Valley Park and Ride on July 23^rd

The County is once again providing document shredding service, which is open to residents of Fairfax County, Herndon, the Town of Vienna, and the cities of Fairfax and Falls Church. Springfield District’s shredding event will be at Rolling Valley Park and Ride on July 23^rd.

Events are from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m., unless the trucks fill up prior to the end time. All participants must be in line by 11 a.m. to be served.

Shredding is provided on a first-come, first-served basis. Please be aware that when the shredding trucks are full, the event will end.

There is a four (4) box limit, based on standard banker/copy box size (12.5” W x 15.5” L x 10.5” H). If you bring documents in plastic bags, please do not tie them. All boxes, plastic/paper bags, or other containers will be returned to you after emptying.

Due to traffic and safety concerns, you may not exit your vehicle or stay in the area to watch shredding. The contractor guarantees all documents will be shredded on-site.

Visit the Dept. of Public Works webpage for the full list of shredding dates.

Fairfax County National Night Out Returns on August 2^nd

We are excited to help announce the return of National Night Out in Fairfax County on August 2 ^nd, 2022. This will be an in-person event that may consist of anything from an ice cream party to a festival. National Night Out is an opportunity to gather with your neighbors, get better acquainted, and talk about issues of common concern.

It’s an opportunity:

-for fun, food and fellowship in your community

-to get to know your Police and Public Safety Team

-to heighten crime prevention awareness

-to send the message that your neighborhood is organized against crime

We will be providing a list of participating neighborhoods in a future newsletter. If you are interested in organizing a National Night Out Event in your neighborhood you should contact the Crime Prevention Officer at your local police station.

LymeX Diagnostics Prize Submissions Due August 8^th

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Steven and Alexandra Cohen Foundation have launched the LymeX Diagnostics Prize, a $10 million competition to accelerate the development of Lyme disease diagnostics. Phase 1 calls on scientific, technical, and clinical experts to submit innovative methods for detecting active Lyme disease infections in people. The goal of the multiphase competition is to advance the development of these diagnostics toward Food and Drug Administration review.

An estimated 476,000 Americans are diagnosed and treated for Lyme each year, but the true number of infections is unknown. Lyme disease symptoms vary from patient to patient, and if the bacterial infection is left untreated, the disease can become harder to eradicate and spread to joints, the heart, and the nervous system. Early diagnosis is critical — but there is currently no FDA-cleared test for active infections.

Entrants should submit detailed concepts and plans for development of innovative detection methods by 4:59 p.m. ET on August 8, 2022. The competition seeks concept papers that describe proposed solutions and scientifically rigorous rationales for success, including ambitious but achievable roadmaps for prototyping, iteration, testing and validation, and evaluation.

The competition judging panel — made up of experts in vector-borne disease biology, clinical and technology translation, patient experience and advocacy, and diagnostic science and technology — will evaluate eligible submissions according to the official Phase 1 evaluation criteria. Based on this evaluation, the panel will recommend up to 10 Phase 1 winners, who will receive an equal share of the $1 million Phase 1 prize pool and will be invited to participate in a planned Phase 2.

To learn more, register for the virtual information session on June 16. The LymeX team will present an in-depth overview of the competition and answer questions.

Hoarding Awareness Information

Hoarding is the extreme and persistent collection of possessions or trash inside a dwelling (newspapers, trash, unopened sale items, clothing, paper, rotting food and even animals), which creates a dangerous living situation and may impact health, wellness, or quality of life for occupants.

Did you know that hoarded structures can create fire hazards and create other dangerous living environments for the residents and animals who live in them?

The Hoarding Committee has been working on a three-part hoarding video series to share the dangers of hoarding, how to recognize the signs, and how to get help. The first video was released and posted a few months ago and the second hoarding video has been finalized and is now on YouTube and our county website. A third will be released in August. Visit here to watch the mini-series.

Springfield@fairfaxcounty.gov

Office

(703) 451-8873

Website

fairfaxcounty.gov/springfield

Free Summer Concert Series @ Burke Lake Park

Every Wednesday 7pm

July 13^th- August 24^th

More details to come

Four-Legged Friend

Do you love big boys who want nothing more than to snuggle with you? Then Ivan's your guy! When he first came to the shelter as a stray, he was shy and took some time to warm up to people. Now, he greets everyone with a big hug. At 70 pounds, you'd think that could be a problem, but our volunteers and staff love Ivan greetings! He's friendly, gentle, and just wants to be loved and assured that everything will be ok. He seems to like other dogs which is great because he could learn a lot from a friendly, confident doggy sibling. If you would like to meet Ivan, click here to arrange a visit.

Sports Tourism Task Force

Pat Herrity

6140 Rolling Road,

Springfield, VA 22152

(703) 451-8873