|
July is Parks and Recreation Month and the perfect time to check out all the great parks and recreation areas in the Mount Vernon District! From playgrounds to waterparks, hiking trails to kayaking, golf to equestrian centers, you will truly find it all right here along the banks of the Potomac. We have parks ranging from small passive parks to large recreation centers with many amenities, and all park authorities - County, regional, state and national. For a list of all the parks and links to more information about each, check out our MVD Parks webpage and get out and play today!
How often do you see something in your neighborhood and think, “How can I change that?” I wanted to take a moment to remind you that you can make a difference! Recently, a resident reached out to our office to ask for help with an accumulating trash problem around a bus stop in their community. Our office reached out to FCDOT and worked with the neighborhood to find a solution, get a trash can installed and coordinate the regular pick up of that trash. By working together we can make our communities better places to live! Thank you all for joining me in that quest.
Join me, School Board Member Mateo Dunne, TEAM MVD, Neighborhood and Community Services, Lorton Community Action Center and many other County agencies and community groups as we host our FREE 2nd Annual Back-to-School Community Day on August 3 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Lorton Community Center. Featuring a moon bounce, face painting, free food, free backpacks and school supplies, a health fair, hearing and vision checks, the Lorton Volunteer Fire Department and Franconia Police Station, all students and families should join us to celebrate the start of the new school year! We also continue to collect backpacks and schools supplies for this day at our office – please stop by to drop off your items.
| |
|
In this Newsletter:
Celebrating Our Community
Upcoming Events
Land Use
Transportation
Health, Housing & Human Services
Public Safety
Parks & Environment
In the News
Community Information
Community Links
Pet Adoption Corner
Important Safety Information
Team MVD
Boards, Authorities & Commissions
| FireWorks 2024 at the Workhouse Arts Center | |
|
As we approach our nation's 248th birthday, a special celebration awaits tomorrow, July 4 at 10 a.m. at Mount Vernon Estate. Fifty-two individuals will take their final step in the years-long journey to become naturalized citizens. What better way to celebrate our independence than at the home of our first President! This moment not only honors our freedom but also celebrates the diverse stories and dreams that enrich our community.
Respectfully yours in public service,
| |
Dan Storck
Supervisor, Mount Vernon District
Fairfax County Board of Supervisors
| |
Celebrating Our Community | |
Team MVD in the Community | |
Team MVD Volunteer Day at the United Community Food Pantry | |
Gum Springs Community Day & Juneteenth Celebration | |
Childcare Roundtable with Senator Mark Warner | | |
|
Soft Opening for the Bunnyman Brewing Cafe at the Workhouse Arts Center Campus | |
The new Clara B. Plein Memorial Garden at River Farm | |
|
Upcoming In-Person & Virtual Events
| |
|
Proposed Data Centers Zoning Ordinance Amendment
Thank you all for staying involved in this important initiative to re-examine current regulations and consider proposed improvements to how data centers are constructed in Fairfax County. The Board of Supervisors will be holding a public hearing on July 16 on the proposed amendment to the Fairfax County Zoning Ordinance. Visit the project website to learn more about the amendment and to catch up on past meetings and information. Sign up here to testify at the public hearing.
| |
|
DCA South of Airport Noise Study Community Meeting
Wednesday, July 17, 7 p.m.
Zoom
Join us for an update on the DCA South of Airport Noise Study. Fairfax County is working with surrounding jurisdictions and airport noise consulting firm Vianair, to develop recommended modifications to existing airspace and flight procedures, in an effort to reduce aircraft noise impacts for communities south of DCA. The virtual community meeting will include details of the analysis and assessment completed so far, along with an opportunity for community questions and feedback. Community members are also invited to complete a community engagement survey. Learn more about the study.
| |
Richmond Highway BRT Project to Enter Engineering Phase
The federal government has approved the Richmond Highway Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project to enter the Engineering Phase. The BRT will feature a 7.4-mile dedicated bus lane from Huntington Metro Station to Fort Belvoir, aiming to improve transit frequency and reliability and reduce traffic congestion. Expected to be operational by late 2031 with an estimated cost of $937 million, the project includes nine stations, in addition to pedestrian and bicycle facilities. Learn more.
| |
Health, Housing & Human Services | |
|
Sticky Fingers Cooking Class
Friday, July 19, Noon - 1 p.m.
The Fairfax Area Agency on Aging’s Caregiver & Supportive Services Unit invites you to join its upcoming virtual Intergenerational Workshop Session. This "Cool'inary Curiosity Class" helps to inspire, educate and celebrate the essential role that real foods, cooking and nutrition play in promoting health and wellness. A recipe with a shopping list, equipment checklist, food allergy guide and video collection are included for participating families. Learn more.
| |
|
Fairfax County Police Department's Third Wave of Road Shark Ends with a Bite
FCPD’s Road Shark campaign has successfully wrapped up its third wave. Officers and Troopers issued over 8,500 citations and warnings, with over 200 citations for reckless driving on our roadways. Between June 17 and 23, FCPD worked in conjunction with the Virginia State Police in completing the third wave of our 2024 “Road Shark” traffic safety campaign within Fairfax County. The results from wave three of Road Shark continues to set the stage for the rest of the year. Wave four of Road Shark will begin on August 5. Learn more.
| |
|
Fireworks and Fun: Safety Tips to Ensure a Safe 4th of July
As we prepare to celebrate America’s independence with fireworks, barbecues and community gatherings, check out these tips to ensure you have a safe and fun July 4th celebration. Learn more.
| |
National Night Out 2024
What are you doing on Tuesday, August 6? How about joining your neighbors for National Night Out! Help make it a memorable event by connecting with officers. Whether it’s a simple ice cream party or an all-out festival, National Night Out is an opportunity to gather with your neighbors, get better acquainted and talk about issues of common concern. You also get the chance to:
-
Have fun, food and fellowship in your community
- Get to know your Police and Public Safety Team
- Heighten crime prevention awareness
- Send the message that your neighborhood is organized against crime
Complete the form to get registered for the event (if you registered directly with the NNO organization, you still need to register with this form). The registration deadline is July 26!
| |
|
Personal Climate Action Webinar
Tuesday, July 16, 6:30 p.m.
Join the Office of Environment and Energy Coordination (OEEC) for the “Personal Climate Action: A Carbon-Free Fairfax Webinar” to learn about ways you can save money, reduce your carbon footprint and adapt to changing climate conditions. Register to receive a reminder email the day of the livestream. The webinar will be livestreamed on Fairfax County’s YouTube channel as well as OEEC’s Facebook page. It will also be immediately available on YouTube to watch the replay after the livestream.
| |
|
Free Summer Fun in the Mount Vernon District
Whether you are traveling, have family visiting or enjoying a stay-cation, summer is the best time for FREE outdoor fun in Mount Vernon. The Park Authority’s Summer Entertainment Series, Mount Vernon Nights is a beloved MVD tradition. Every Friday at Grist Mill Park and Saturdays at the Workhouse Arts Center at 7:30 p.m., bring a blanket, chairs or a picnic dinner and listen to local artists and bands. Stop by Fort Hunt Park every Sunday at 7 p.m. in Pavilion A to listen to a collection of well-known local orchestras and bands performing your favorite music. Read more from the Mount Vernon Gazette.
| |
|
Fairfax County Sees Uptick in Population and Wealth Despite Rising Housing Costs
Fairfax County’s population is older, more diverse and wealthier than it was a year ago. Fairfax County’s population in 2023 reached approximately 1,186,000 residents, marking a 1.1% increase from 2022. By 2050, the population is projected to reach 1.38 million — a 16% increase from the present. Meanwhile, the demographic landscape has shifted significantly, with residents aged 65 and older now representing nearly 14% of the population, compared to just 3% in 1970. Read more from FFX Now.
| |
|
Fairfax to Install More Stop-for-Pedestrian Signage Across County
Fairfax County Department of Transportation will change out 314 road signs reading “Yield to Pedestrians in Crosswalk-$100-$500 Violation Fine” and replace them with ones mandating motorists to stop for pedestrians in crosswalks or face similar penalties. Read more from Gazette Leader.
| |
BLM Revitalizes Community Garden on Mason Neck
Last year, the Laurel Hill section of Lorton got a new community garden from the Fairfax County Park Authority; this year Mason Neck has a newly revitalized community garden at Meadowood Special Recreation Management Area, thanks to efforts from staff at the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The garden is located behind the main field station office at 10406 Gunston Road. Read more from On The MoVe.
| |
|
Kids Ride Free on VRE
Kids know trains are cool. But what’s even cooler? Riding one for free! VRE just eliminated fares for passengers ages 18 and under, making travel by train more affordable and enjoyable than driving. And parking is free at most VRE stations. Learn more.
| |
FAFSA Completion Clinic
Wednesday, July 17, 6-8 p.m.
Mount Vernon Governmental Center, 2511 Parkers Lane
The Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA) is available to all college students and is the first step toward receiving Pell Grants and other need-based assistance to achieve a college degree. College Access Fairfax will be providing free assistance to students in the Mount Vernon area to assist in completing the FAFSA. A full schedule of these FAFSA completion clinics throughout the County can be found on the College Access Fairfax website. Learn more.
| |
Fairfax County 250th Commission
America's “Semiquincentennial”, also known as the 250th anniversary, will be celebrated in 2026. This significant milestone marks 250 years since the Declaration of Independence was adopted on July 4, 1776. The celebration is expected to be a nationwide event, with various activities and commemorations planned to honor the history, culture and achievements of the United States. Plans include educational initiatives, public events and projects designed to engage citizens and communities across the country in celebrating this historic occasion. Learn more.
| |
Grow Your Business with Experts from George Mason
Are you a small business owner or thinking about becoming an entrepreneur? Virginia Small Business Development Centers use experts from George Mason University to provide no-cost business counseling and training services to the small business community. Training and workshops cover business formation, marketing, pitch preparation, financing, SEO, cybersecurity, government contracting and more. Learn more.
| |
ArtsFairfax Project Support Grants
Are you an artist or part of an arts organization looking to make a significant impact in Fairfax County? ArtsFairfax Project Support Grants are here to help and serve nonprofit arts organizations or organizations/individual artists working with a fiscal sponsor, with funding to support projects that engage Fairfax County residents. Project Support Grants are awarded in four grant subcategories, including Arts in Education, Opportunity, Partnerships and Arts Access. Applications are due July 15. Learn more.
| |
Below are community links to local groups, organizations, school news and more. Click the links to learn more and sign up for their newsletters.
| |
Meet Cody
If you're looking for a partner in crime for summer shenanigans, Cody is your boy. This 83lb boy would be happy to accompany you on all your adventures! He's an athletic boy who will have lots of energy to burn. Cody can be your hiking buddy and your lazy day cuddle buddy. He can be a little reserved at times and likes to be close with his family. Cody appreciates a slower approach when meeting new people as it takes him a little bit of time to warm up. Because Cody is such a big dog, he will need a home with no small children. This blue-eyed boy is ready to win your heart over!
Cody is currently available at the Lorton Campus. If you would like to meet him or any of the adoptable pets at the Fairfax County Animal Shelter, visit during open hours! For more info on the adoption process, including requirements and fees, click here.
| Important Safety Information | |
|
Code Compliance - Home-Based Businesses
One intended purpose of the Zoning Ordinance is to create and maintain conditions where people and their environment can coexist. One way it does this is by separating certain incompatible uses – like preventing businesses such as movie theaters and car washes in residential districts. However, residents can operate some businesses at their home. The Zoning Ordinance calls these home-based businesses (HBBs), which require a permit and have use standards to reduce impact. Examples include offices with no customers, or music lessons for a limited number of students at a time and per day. More HBB information is available on the Department of Code Compliance (DCC) Home-Based Business flyer. A few other types of commerce or business-like activities can be conducted at home but are not considered HBBs. These are also subject to limits and include:
-
A limited riding or boarding stable (requires 2+ acres and permit);
-
Short-term lodging (with permit);
-
A home day care facility (zoning application approval is required for over 7 children in a single-family detached dwelling or 5 children in other dwelling types);
-
Caring for up to 4 companion animals (pets). No permit is required. However, the Zoning Ordinance limits the number of dogs on a property, and dogs receiving care from a non-owner count toward the property’s limit.
DCC is here to help – if you have questions, want to make a report or if you are the subject of enforcement and need assistance. You can report problems online, learn about what happens during an investigation, reach out via email, phone (703-324-1300 / TTY 711) or visit in person at 12055 Government Center Parkway, Suite 1016, Fairfax, VA 22035. Learn more.
| | |
|
We are happy to welcome Diego Rodriguez Cabrera to Team MVD | |
Mount Vernon District Staff (top row left to right): Nick Rinehart, Supervisor Dan Storck, Volunteer Shirley Short, Peyton Smith, (bottom row left to right) Cassidy Donaghy, Christine Morin, Maddie Alvarado, Camela Speer | |
|
Whether you need a free notary, voter information, Mosquito Dunks or you would like to reserve meeting space in the Mount Vernon Governmental Center -- my office offers all this at no cost to you. Have road maintenance requests, zoning questions or environmental concerns? Stop by the Mount Vernon District Office anytime during our office hours, call or email us. We are here to help!
Stop by and visit the information tables outside my office for everything happening in the District. From flyers for upcoming events, bike route maps, newspapers and much more, this center is free and available 24/7!
| |
|
June 2024 Activities:
- Phone calls: 892
- Meetings: 257
Stay Connected:
Mount Vernon Governmental Center
2511 Parkers Lane
Mount Vernon, VA 22306
703-780-7518 (TTY 711) 703-780-1491 (fax)
mtvernon@fairfaxcounty.gov
| |
|
Office Hours
Monday - Wednesday, Friday:
8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Thursday: 8:30 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Second Saturday Each Month (Except August)
Lorton Library: 9 - 11:30 a.m.
MV District Office: 12:30 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Walk-ins and by appointment
| |
|
Update from Mount Vernon School Board Member Mateo Dunne
Please read my partner on the corridor School Board Member Mateo Dunne's latest newsletter for an update on Fairfax County Public Schools.
| |
Boards, Authorities and Commissions | |
|
Help serve your community by serving on a Fairfax County Board, Authority or Commission (BAC). Please ask your friends, neighbors and community members if they are willing to help serve Fairfax County. Open Mount Vernon District positions:
Fairfax Area Disability Services Board
In accordance with Va. Code Sec. 51.5-47 to provide input to state and local agencies on service needs and priorities of persons with physical and sensory disabilities, to provide information and resource referral to local governments regarding the Americans with Disabilities Act, and to provide such other assistance and advice to local governments as may be requested.
Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board
To ensure and oversee the establishment and operation of local mental health, intellectual disabilities, and substance abuse programs.
Board of Building and Fire Prevention Code Appeals (At-Large Members Needed)
Pursuant to County Code Section 61-2-1, to act on applications for appeals from Building Official, Fire Official or Property maintenance Code Official decisions based on the VUSBC, the VSFPC, the Virginia Amusement Device Regulations (VADR) and Chapters 61, 64, 65, and 66 of the County Code as specified.
Civil Service Commission
To represent public interest in improvement of personnel administration; to advise the Board of Supervisors, County Executive and Personnel Director in formulation of Policies. County Code Sections 3-1-7 through 3-1-10.
There are several At-Large positions available as of June 2024 on County BACs.
- A. Heath Onthank Memorial Award Selection Committee
- Affordable Dwelling Unit Advisory Board (Lending Institution Representative)
- Airports Advisory Committee
- Athletic Council (Women’s Sports Alternate Representative)
- Board of Building and Fire Prevention Code Appeals (Alternate & Design Professional)
- Board of Equalization of Real Estate
- Chesapeake Bay Preservation Ordinance Exception Review Committee
- Child Care Advisory Council
- Civil Service Commission
- Commission for Women (At-Large Minority Rep.)
- Consumer Protection Commission
- Engineering Standard Review Committee
- Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board
- Health Systems Agency Board
- History Commission
- Human Rights Commission
- Police Civilian Review Panel
- Uniformed Retirement System Board of Trustees
- Wetlands Board
- Young Adults Advisory Committee
Learn more about any of these BACs.
Volunteering on these committees increases citizen participation in our District. If you are interested in serving on a County board, authority, commission or committee (BAC), please provide a current résumé to mtvernon@fairfaxcounty.gov. For more information, please download the brochure for a brief guide to BACs, or learn more on the County website. You can also check out the County's Volunteer Management System for information on these and other volunteer opportunities near you.
| | |
|  |
|
|
Adult Protective Services
(703) 324-7450, TTY 703-449-1186
Aging, Disability & Caregiver Resource Line
(703) 324-7948, TTY 711
Child Protective Services (24/7)
(703) 324-7400, TTY 703-222-9452
Domestic & Sexual Violence (24/7)
(703) 360-7273, TTY 711
Emergency & Basic Needs
(703) 222-0880, TTY 711
Emergency Mental Health (24/7)
(703) 573-5679, TTY 711
Fairfax County Emergency Information Line
(703) 817-7771, TTY 711
Fairfax Water Emergency Line
(703) 698-5613
Fairfax County Public Schools Family Information - English Phone Line
(703) 204-3941
Fairfax County Animal Shelter
(703) 324-0299
| | |
|
Fire Code-Related Questions
(703) 246-4849, TTY 711
Fraud Hotline
(703) 787-3243
Police Non-Emergency Line
(703) 691-2131
Roads: VDOT (Virginia Department of Transportation)
1 (800) FOR-ROAD or 1 (800) 367-7623, TTY 711
Suicide Prevention (24/7)
Call: (703) 527-4077
Text: "CONNECT" to 85511
Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board 24/7 Lines
Emergency Services: (703) 573-5679
Fairfax Detoxification Center: (703) 502-7000
Fairfax County Public Library
(703) 324-3100, TTY 711
Office of Elections
(703) 222-0776, TTY 711
Fairfax County Health Department
(703) 246-2411, TTY 711
| | | | |
