n LOUDOUN
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VOL. 7, NO. 25
Pg. 8 | n EDUCATION
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We’ve got you covered. In the mail weekly. Online always at LoudounNow.com
Pg. 27 | n PUBLIC NOTICES
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MAY 12, 2022
New COVID Surge Hitting Loudoun LOUDOUN NOW STAFF REPORT
shipyards attacked U.S. merchant ships, resulted in a $15.5 settlement from Great Britain. That case was the first to establish the principle of international arbitration. Leesburg’s Thomas Balch Library was dedicated by his sons, Edwin Swift Balch and Thomas Willing Balch, who had do-
Following a national trend, the rate of COVID-19 cases in Loudoun is climbing. This week, the daily average of new daily cases neared 150 and the average positivity rate of PCR tests surpassed 15%, both the highest since February. The surge is attributed to a highly transmissible strain of the Omicron variant and fewer people wearing masks and distancing from others. County leaders are urging residents to assess their risks and take precautions as necessary. “We are beginning to see an increase in the impact of the ongoing transmission of the virus in our region, so I encourage everyone to understand your risk level,” Loudoun County Health Director Dr. David Goodfriend said in an alert issued Tuesday. “While healthy, fully vaccinated and boosted individuals have a lower risk associated with the upward tick in COVID-19 activity at this time, some members of our community may be more severely impacted by this trend, and those more vulnerable residents should take added precautions.” Meanwhile Inova Loudoun Hospital President Susan Carroll said the hospital has seen a slight uptick
BALCH CENTENNIAL continues on page 39
COVID SURGE continues on page 39
Renss Greene/Loudoun Now
A portrait of Thomas Balch stands in a display case at his namesake Thomas Balch Library, which will celebrate its centennial on Friday, May 13.
Centennial Celebration:
Balch Library Turns 100 BY KARA C. RODRIGUEZ
krodriguez@loudounnow.com
Leesburg’s history and genealogical library is turning the big 100, and town and library leaders kicked off the celebration last week. The Thomas Balch Library will officially turn 100 on Friday, May 13. The library is named for Leesburg
native Thomas Balch, who was born in 1821, the son of Judge Lewis P. Balch. According to the Friends of Thomas Balch Library, he would go on to become a noted attorney in his own right and a keen student of history. He also made some history—his work on a diplomatic dispute between the U.S. and Great Britain arising from the Civil War, during which Confederate Navy ships built in British
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Visit Loudoun Honors Top Performers BY NORMAN K. STYER nstyer@loudounnow.com
Visit Loudoun put the spotlight on the top performers in the county’s hospitality industry during its annual meeting and awards ceremony, held May 5 at the Bellevue Conference & Event Center. The 26th annual event, held during National Travel and Tourism Week, featured a keynote address from Destinations International President and CEO Don Welsh and unveiled the organization’s 2022 marketing theme, Driving the Future, along with a custom wrapped Visit Loudoun VW Atlas that will promote a new Art in Motion campaign. Founded a quarter century ago as the Loudoun Convention and Visitors Association, Visit Loudoun has led efforts to build the county into one of the Virginia’s top tourism destinations. During last week’s event, President and CEO Beth Erickson provided a glimpse into the future marketing of the destination based on the input of nearly 1,500 residents, visitors, business owners, elected officials and other stakeholders who provided input during its three-year strategic planning process. Key findings from a third-party survey showed that tourism continues to be a vital part of Loudoun’s economy and that 70% of the more than 1,000 residents who responded support tourism efforts. Other findings show that 60 percent of the 144 responding business owners said tourism is critical for their business to thrive. Of the more than 160 visitors surveyed, most commended Loudoun’s open space and scenic landscape, while 82 percent said they would visit again and/or recommend a visit to their friends. The highlight of the program was the award ceremony. Ellen Goldberg of Briar Patch Bed and Breakfast was presented with the 2021 Judy Patterson Award, Visit Loudoun’s highest honor that recognizes those who demonstrate outstanding commitment to the sustainability and enhancement of Loudoun County as a visitor destination as well as contributions to the overall quality of life for its residents. Goldberg recently stepped down as president of the Loudoun Bed & Breakfast Guild and was credited for her two decades of work to build that industry. The Steve Hines Partner of the Year Award was presented to Morven Park for its support of Visit Loudoun’s efforts to
Leesburg Celebrates Business as Awards Ceremony Returns BY KARA C. RODRIGUEZ
krodriguez@loudounnow.com
Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now
The winners of the 2021 Visit Loudoun Tourism awards pose on the grand stairs at The Bellevue Conference & Event Center.
promote the historic, natural, and equestrian assets in Loudoun. Walter Jinks, of Salamander Resort & Spa, was named the 2021 Tourism Manager of the Year. He was cited for his ability to clearly communicate his goals and vision with his team and even helping to save the life of one guest of the five-star resort in Middleburg. Jessica Dinkins, of Experience Bluemont, was named the 2021 Back-of-the House Hero. She oversees the hiring, training and development of all team members at Bluemont Vineyard, Henway Hard Cider and Great Country Farms and is known for her innovative hiring and onboarding process that has helped grow talent and retain employees. Jennifer Puffinberger, of Bluemont Vineyard, was named the 2021 Front-ofthe-House Hero. She is an original member of the Bluemont team who develops the tasting notes and training programs for new team members. She also does the wine tastings for weddings, working with more than 100 couples last year. Renee Ventrice, owner of Cork & Keg Tours, was selected as the 2021 Loudoun Certified Tourism Ambassador of the Year. As a graduate of Visit Loudoun’s CTA program, she was credited with providing her clients with a deep understanding of the county’s varied tourism experience and the people who provide them.
Donna Bohanon was presented the new Diversity in Travel award. She is the chairwoman of the Black History Committee of Friends of Thomas Balch Library, co-chairwoman of the county’s Heritage Commission and a member of the Arcola Slave Quarters board. She was recognized for her commitment to educating residents and visitors on African American history in Loudoun by partnering with historic sites and organizations like the Loudoun Museum, Morven Park, Oatlands, and Visit Loudoun to create impactful interpretive resources. The United States Specialty Sports Association C Eastern National Championships was named the 2021 Tourism Event of the Year. The tournament brought in visitors from 10 states with 2,000 athletes, filling 2,800 room nights and generating $1.7 million in visitor spending. The Holiday Road light display at Morven Park, organized by Dinamic Communications LLC, was named the 2021 Tourism Marketing Promotion/PR Campaign of the Year. The event attracted 25,000 visitors. The 2021 New Tourism Business of the Year award was presented to The Local Proposal, founded by Matt and KC Tregoning. The couple help clients plan their proposals and then partner with Loudoun County vendors to provide services for the wedding. n
It was a jubilant atmosphere at the Village at ChefScape on May 4 as town leaders gathered to celebrate Leesburg’s small businesses, their fortitude while weathering the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Mayor Kelly Burk hailed the return of the awards ceremony, the first one that has been held since 2019 and applauded the perseverance of the business owners gathered that evening for their commitment to Leesburg. SimplyBe Coffee, a ministry of the Tree of Life nonprofit that provides employment opportunities to adults with special needs while serving up cups of joe, received the Community Ambassador Award. “As a special education teacher for 34 years this is such a huge need,” Burk said. She added that she was looking forward to debuting a regular “Coffee with the Mayor” event at SimplyBe. The Innovations Award went to AWL Creative @ A Wedding Loft, which provides a coworking space on King Street for women-owned businesses. The Arts & Cultural Award went to The Clay & Metal Loft in Virginia Village shopping center. The shop provides classes for adults and children and popular summer camps. The New & Expanding Business Award went to The Conche restaurant in the Village at Leesburg. The company was lauded for its commitment to expand and evolve, adding classes and camps to its popular dining offerings. Finally, the evening’s biggest honor, the George C. Marshall Award, went to Eric Byrd of the Loudoun Small Business Development Center. Also chairman of the town’s Economic Development Commission, Byrd was recognized for his commitment to helping small business owners, particularly during the pandemic. n
Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now
Eric Byrd of the Loudoun Small Business Development Center received the 2022 George C. Marshall Award for his commitment to small business owners, particularly during the pandemic.
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LOUDOUNNOW.COM
MAY 12, 2022
ON THE Agenda
Loudoun
Supervisors Look Ahead to Land, Zoning Decisions for Remaining Term BY RENSS GREENE rgreene@loudounnow.com
County planners have their work cut out for the rest of the current Board of Supervisor’s term—and beyond. Loudoun supervisors have directed the county’s professional land use planners to do a variety of jobs beyond the ongoing rewrite of the county’s zoning ordinance, ranging from assessing the fees the county charges developers for traffic impact studies, to revisiting airport noise zones, plans for work along Rt. 15, new regulations on solar arrays, and designing new historic exhibits for the courthouse green. On May 3, county staff members gave supervisors their approximate timeline for getting all of those various jobs done— and advised supervisors that their plates are full. County Administrator Tim Hemstreet said the Department of Planning and Zoning’s work plan has arrived at “a critical point” in the current Board of Supervisors’ term, which runs from January 2020 to December 2023 with supervisors facing election in November 2023. He said at this point, “the staff is at maximum capacity.” “This is the priority that the board has given to us previously for these things, that our understanding as staff is what is important to you to complete before the end of your term,” Hemstreet said. “What that means by definition is, we’re really not in a position at this point in the term to
take really any additional Board Member Initiatives or accept any additional changes of significance.” Limited government staffing resources have been a theme in Loudoun County, where government has not kept up with the growth in population and the county has sometimes relied on more-costly consultants to fill gaps in staffing. The Board of Supervisors over this and the previous term have sought to grow staffing numbers and compensation to grapple with the county administration’s workload. Already supervisors are worried that a big part of the plan—the ongoing work to rewrite the county zoning ordinance to reflect the 2019 comprehensive plan— will fall behind. Currently, the plan is for the new zoning ordinance to come to the Board of Supervisors in November, and the Planning Commission which will see it first hasn’t yet begun work on the ordinance. County Chair Phyllis J. Randall (D-At Large) recalled the much-delayed Envision Loudoun project to write the new comprehensive plan, which was originally scheduled to take 18 months and ended up lasting almost three years. And when supervisors passed the new plan in June 2019, analysis of its impacts hadn’t been completed. “I would be shocked and pleased if the Planning Commission actually had the zoning ordinance rewrite for three months,” she said. “We said that about the comprehensive plan, and 12 months later we got it back.”
Supervisor Tony R. Buffington (R-Blue Ridge) pushed to get new solar array regulations higher on the list. He said with its current spot last on the list, “I’m not even sure this is something we are going to actually accomplish during our term.” He proposed swapping that work with a project higher on the list, considering bringing the Red Hill Community near Brambleton from the county’s Rural Policy Area into the Transition Policy Area between the rural and suburban areas. Members of that neighborhood, which has seen development close by, have asked supervisors to do that. That project is tentatively expected to come to the board for the first time at their May 17 meeting and wrap up in February. But Buffington said the new regulations on solar arrays are more urgent and affect more people. “Large landowners are actively being lobbied and contacted by the solar array industry right now, who want to build basically solar farms on their parcels, and I think this is something that is definitely— in my opinion at least, and as the opinion of the farmers and the large landowners that I’ve heard from in western Loudoun County this is more important than this Red Hill issue.” Randall pointed out the board has heard consistently from Red Hill residents LOOK AHEAD continues on page 39
Supervisors Consider Updates to Affordable Housing Loans BY RENSS GREENE
rgreene@loudounnow.com
Members of the Board of Supervisors’ finance committee on Tuesday were scheduled to consider updates to the county’s Affordable Multi-Family Housing Loan Program, which helps developers finance below-market-rent apartment buildings. The changes could mean county taxpayer dollars go further in those projects.
The program is relatively new, first approved in July 2018 and revised a year later. In that time, it has funded seven loans, growing a portfolio of over $25 million in existing loans, funded from the county’s Housing Trust Fund. It is one of several programs affordable housing developers use to piece together the financing for those projects, also including federal and state tax credits and grants. Among the proposed changes is raising the leverage ratio from 1:3 to 1:5—meaning for every
dollar of county financing, the developer must show $5 in contributions from other sources. County financing can also unlock other sources of funding—for example, according to a staff report to the finance committee, showing a commitment of local funding can help a developer score higher in their application for federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits. HOUSING LOANS continues on page 6
Hanson Park Budget Grows Again, Nears Completion County supervisors are expected to approve another half-million dollar increase to the construction budget for Hal and Berni Hanson Regional Park. Because of construction delays attributed to weather and supply problems, the budget for construction support issues will likely be boosted for a third time, bringing the payments to McDonough Bolyard Peck from an original $4.5 million budget to $6.1 million. Originally budgeted for $76.2 million, the project’s construction costs is now estimated at $81.7 million. The project’s total budget, including contingencies, is $100.4 million. The project is expected to achieve substantial completion this summer. When completed, it will include 17 lighted athletic fields from baseball to cricket, a nature center building, a lodge building, a park office building, a maintenance building and facilities, picnic shelters, restrooms with concessions, associated parking, five athletic courts for activities like tennis, two playgrounds, two dog parks, a splash pad, a skate plaza, and paths and trails. The project also involves renovating the historic building on the property, the Hanson House.
Tourism Grant Application Online Loudoun County’s annual Tourism Grant competitive process is underway with the posting of the Fiscal Year 2023 grant application at loudoun.gov/tourismgrant. The grant program is designed to support local tourism initiatives and events that drive tourists to Loudoun County. Nonprofits, municipalities, and businesses located in the county are invited to apply for funding for projects to attract ON THE AGENDA continues on page 6
MAY 12, 2022
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CABINET SHOWPLACE
MAY 12, 2022
ON THE Agenda
has
announced schedule changes for two of its committees. The Ad Hoc Committee on Advisory Boards, Commissions and Committees will meet Monday, May 16 at 3 p.m. The meeting was originally scheduled for April 21 but was canceled because of a lack of quorum for the three-member committee. The Transportation and Land Use Committee’s meeting originally scheduled for Wednesday, May 18 has been canceled. A special meeting of the committee, focusing on data centers, is scheduled for Wednesday, June 1, at 6 p.m. And the Transportation and Land Use Committee’s July meeting, originally scheduled for Wednesday, July 20, has been rescheduled for Monday, July 18 at 6 p.m. Committee meetings can be watched from home on television on Comcast Government Channel 23 and Verizon FiOS Channel 40, and online at loudoun.gov/meetings. Documents from the meetings are posted online at loudoun.gov/bosdocuments. n
One proposed revision to the county’s loans would allow more opportunities each year for developers to apply, seeking to match the more frequent openings for Low-Income Housing Tax Credits, Virginia Housing bonds or Economic Development Authority bonds. That could give developers a better chance of assembling their financing package at the right time, and could also increase the number of developers applying for those loans, according to the county staff. Another revision could encourage
developers to plan for more Extremely Low Income units, and to include free broadband internet and other amenities. “Extremely Low Income” units serve families making 30% or less of the Area Median Income, currently $29,950 for an individual and $42,700 for a family of four. Developers would see their applications for loans scored more highly for including those features. And another would give developers more flexibility on the value of the property, facing a real estate market that continues to tighten. The county’s Housing Trust Fund currently has a balance of $18.3 million. n
Fine Cabinetry for the Entire Home
continued from page 4
regional and national visitors to Loudoun, increase overnight stays in Loudoun hotels, and enhance the overall attractiveness and marketability of Loudoun County as a destination. For fiscal year 2023, the Tourism Grant process will be supplemented by American Rescue Plan Act funds through the Virginia Tourism Corporation. As a result of these funds, awards for this fiscal year will be increased from $10,000 to $25,000. Applications are due by 4 p.m. May 31. Applications and more information are at loudoun.gov/tourismgrant. With questions, contact Darrell Simpson in the Department of Finance and Budget at grants@loudoun.gov or by phone at 571-258-3482.
County Board Changes Committee Schedules
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PAGE 8
MAY 12, 2022
AROUND Town
Leesburg
Reporter Rodriguez Named Town PIO
Renss Greene/Loudoun Now
Traffic flows under the Leesburg Bypass bridge over South King Street, which has visible rust, cracked concrete and exposed steel.
Bypass Bridge Condition Raises Concern BY KARA C. RODRIGUEZ
krodriguez@loudounnow.com
A citizen concern about the condition of the Leesburg Bypass bridge over South King Street was a focal point of discus-
sion during Monday’s Leesburg Town Council work session. The concern was related to the spalling of the bridge concrete, along with a bridge pier showing exposed steel. A resident recently reached out to both town
staff and VDOT directly to express her worries about the structural integrity of the bridge. BRIDGE CONCERN continues on page 9
Mayor’s Race Off to a Hot Start BY KARA C. RODRIGUEZ krodriguez@loudounnow.com
Both of Leesburg’s mayoral candidates have sizable war chests after the first quarterly campaign finance reports were filed. Councilwoman Suzanne Fox, who is challenging three-term Mayor Kelly Burk in her re-election bid, had a particularly strong start to her fundraising campaign. From January through the end of March, Fox reported more than $27,000 in campaign donations for her first mayoral bid. Her largest donor thus far has been Vito Germinario, the CEO of GPI, Inc., in Sterling, who has thus far donated $15,000 to her campaign. Expenditures so far have been only $250, leaving Fox with $27,198.71 in her campaign account.
While Burk has raised just under $5,000 since the year began, she started 2022 with a sizable war chest, at more than $33,000. Her largest donations in the first quarter of the year, at $500 each, came from Kevin Burke of Reston; Queen Street resident Richard Evans; ProJet Aviation; and former House of Delegates candidate Mavis Taintor. She reported only $682 in expenditures in the first quarter, leaving her with $33,582.28 in her campaign account. Town Council candidate Todd Cimino-Johnson reported more than $4,500 in donations to kick off the first quarter of his council campaign. Cimino-Johnson was his own largest donor to begin the year, at $1,020. He reported a little more than $1,460 in expenditures for this reporting period, leaving him with $3,070.80 in his
campaign account. Finally, Councilman Neil Steinberg, who has not yet announced whether he will seek re-election in November, but has qualified for the ballot, did not report any campaign contributions or expenditures for this reporting period. His campaign account stands at $2,788. No other candidates have filed the paperwork to be on November’s Town Council ballot, when the seats held by Steinberg, Fox and Vice Mayor Marty Martinez are up for election. Like Fox, Martinez has announced he will not seek re-election for his council seat. Instead, he will run for the newly redrawn 29th District House of Delegates seat. The filing deadline for the Town Council race is 7 p.m. June 21. n
Leesburg Town Manager Kaj Dentler announced Monday that Kara Rodriguez has been hired as the town’s public information Rodriguez officer, effective June 13. Rodriguez succeeds Betsy Arnett, who was promoted to senior management analyst. “I believe Kara’s extensive media and local government background makes her an ideal fit for this position, and we are excited for her to join the town government,” Dentler said. Rodriguez has been a longtime reporter in Loudoun County, exclusively covering the Leesburg government for almost 15 years. During her time with both Leesburg Today and Loudoun Now newspapers, she has been awarded by the Virginia Press Association for her local news coverage, recently winning awards for business, financial and technological writing, and her coverage of the Leesburg Mobile Park sale. Additionally, Rodriguez is the Ward 4 representative on the Berryville Town Council, a position she will continue to serve until her term expires at year’s end. Rodriguez holds a liberal arts degree from New York University, where she studied newspaper journalism and political science.
Rain Barrel Workshop Offered May 19 The Loudoun Soil and Water Conservation District, in partnership with the Leesburg Environmental Advisory Commission, will offer a rain barrel workshop Thursday, May 19. The workshop will be held at Tuscarora Creek Park, 425 Solitude Court SE, beginning at 6 p.m. Participants will have the choice of making a rain barrel or purchasing BETTER TIES continues on page 9
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
MAY 12, 2022
AROUND Town continued from page 8
one that’s already been pre-made. Kits to make a rain barrel cost $60; the pre-made barrels cost $80. Up to 30 Leesburg residents may receive a $25 discount on the purchase of a rain barrel as an incentive to promote water conservation. For more information go to loudounsoilandwater.com/programs/ rain-barrel-workshops.
Town of Leesburg
The winning 2016 “Festival of Lights” snowplow design from J. Lupton Simpson Middle School.
Leesburg Opens ‘Paint the Plow’ Design Contest The Town of Leesburg’s Commission
on Public Art and the Friends of Leesburg Public Arts have invited local schools to take part in the town’s “Paint the Plow” art project. This year’s theme is “Weather.” Three designs will be chosen and painted onto 12-foot wide, three-foot high town snowplow blades, to be featured in the 2022 Leesburg Kiwanis Halloween Parade and the town’s Christmas and Holiday parade, as well as on snowplows clearing the streets after snowfall. The artwork must be an original student design, and students must paint the plow themselves. Each winning school will receive $100 towards painting supplies. Up to three designs may be submitted from each school, but no more than one per school will be chosen. Submissions are due by 5 p.m. Monday, June 20. Submissions will be reviewed by an art advisory panel, then sent to the Commission on Public Art for a final decision. The plows will also be in a contest for best plow art, with voting before and during the Halloween parade. The school with the most votes will win $500, and second and third place will win $100 each. Submission guidelines and more information are online at leesburgva.gov/publicartnews. n
PAGE 9
Bridge concern continued from page 8 The bridge’s western expansion joint was repaired by VDOT in October 2020, and the bridge was most recently inspected by VDOT in June 2021, said Bud Siegel, deputy director of the Public Works and Capital Projects Department. In that inspection, the bridge received a General Condition Rating of 6 for its bridge deck, 6 for the super-structure, and 6 for the sub-structure, using ascending scale ratings developed by the National Bridge Inspection Society. A GCR of 0 means the bridge is in failing condition and needs to be replaced; a top score of 9 means the bridge is in excellent condition. A score of 6 is “satisfactory,” according to VDOT’s Fiscal Year 2021 State of the Structures and Bridges report. VDOT’s programming of bridge maintenance funding is predicated on a bridge’s condition rating, and funding is limited to those bridges that have a
GCR of 4 or below. VDOT’s Northern Virginia district is responsible for 2,300 bridges and culverts. More than 300 bridges, or around 13%, have a GCR of 5, Siegel said. Siegel said VDOT staff indicated the spalling and exposed ancillary steel observed by the citizen doesn’t significantly impact the bridge’s structural integrity, although they acknowledged it was unattractive. VDOT staff has said, however, it will remove some of the concrete to eliminate danger from falling concrete, Siegel said. The bridge, they concluded, is not falling or in a pending state of collapse. One action item that is expected to come out of Town Council related to the bridge is a request to the Commonwealth Transportation Board to allocate additional funding for bridge and culvert maintenance repair. Inadequate funding of those types of projects, Siegel said, is a national issue. The council was expected to vote on that request at its Tuesday meeting, after this paper’s deadline. n
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MAY 12, 2022
SCHOOL notebook
Education
After Outcry, Grand Jury Backs Off Student Records Request LOUDOUN NOW STAFF REPORT
A special grand jury given broad authority to investigate Loudoun County Public Schools has reportedly backed off a request that would have provided access to some students’ confidential educational records. The Loudoun Circuit Court in April impaneled a special grand jury to investigate the school system’s handling of a sexual assault scandal. Judge James E. Plowman is overseeing the special grand jury. Sources with knowledge of the proceedings said that Plowman gave the jury latitude to investigate matters beyond just the sexual assault scandal, including anything related to the school division. The group Equality Loudoun raised alarms late last week after parents, including the parents of a transgender student, received a notification under the Federal Education Rights and Privacy Act that their child’s records had been subpoenaed by the Office of the Attorney General. According to the notice from the
school system’s legal counsel, “The grand jury subpoena’s search request resulted in several unrelated student records, which include records of your child [...] that may have to be disclosed.” The letter to parents, dated May 4, informed them if they wished to try to protect those records they would have to do so before May 10. According to Equality Loudoun President Cris Candice Tuck, the grand jury had requested documents relating to “transgender policy.” The family sought to file an injunction to protect their child’s private records, and were notified they would have to file injunctions for each document. The parents also asked that the officials handling the case redact their child’s name and identifying information, but the school system informed the family that those requests were denied. “Regardless of a student’s identity, any request for private and sensitive student records in this context can be dangerous. We will continue to hold accountable those who seek to conflate our LGBTQ+ community, especially students, with
the horrific occurrences of assault in 2021,” Tuck stated. “This is the ultimate parent’s rights issue, and we challenge all organizations who claim to care about students to stand up in defense of parents and families who are seeking the protection and privacy of children from government overreach.” Following that outcry, according to Equality Loudoun, the family’s legal counsel was told that the statement did not apply to student records after all, and that investigators would not pursue the subpoena for those records. The school division has reportedly hired attorney Steven T. Webster of Webster Book LLP in Alexandria to handle its involvement in the special grand jury. Webster has worked as a civil and criminal trial lawyer for over 30 years, including government investigations. Because the investigation is criminal RECORDS REQUEST continues on page 13
Loudoun4All Holds Rally for Teacher Appreciation Week BY HAYLEY MILON BOUR
The School Board at its May 24 meeting is expected to adopt a resolution seeking to add a $315.2 million bond referendum to November’s ballot. The funding would be used for the construction of a new high school, the installation of school security improvements, school bus replacement and acquisitions, Park View High School renovations and system-wide building renewals and alterations.
Nominations Presented for Parent Advisory Group Efforts to create a new parent advisory board, dubbed the Loudoun Educational Alliance of Families, continues to advance with a slate of 57 candidates for membership presented to the School Board on Tuesday. The panel would provide the School Board with community feedback to ensure its decision making considers the best interests of students and the community. The first 57 representatives were nominated by school parent organizations or by school principals. There are 40 more slots open, as the panel is proposed to include representatives from each of the division’s schools and educational centers.
Retired Teachers Assn. Invites New Members
hbour@loudounnow.com
The group Loudoun4All gathered to support teachers and public education on May 2 during a Teacher Appreciation Week rally in Sterling. In a rally alongside Rt. 7, over two dozen demonstrators held signs that read “Honk to Thank a Teacher.” The crowd chanted “support our teachers, protect public ed.” Leesburg Vice Mayor Marty Martinez, who is running for a House of Delegates seat, was among the attendees. He said that special interest groups have been stoking public discourse and creating animosity. Over the past year, School Board members have faced a removal effort rooted in frustration over the board’s policies and handling of several scandals in the division. “I think if you get the facts and you talk about what education is about, it’s not about special interest groups or agendas. It’s about educating our children and ev-
Schools Prepare $315M Bond Request
Hayley Milon Bour/ Loudoun Now
Loudoun4All members stand alongside Rt. 7 at the intersection of Augusta Drive to show support for teachers and public education during Teacher Appreciation Week.
eryone has a voice,” he said. Many of the supporters said they felt teachers have been targeted in the politization of education, and are experiencing burnout from working through the pandemic and being vilified in political discourse.
Lynn Davis of Sterling said that students and teachers are bearing the brunt of the political climate. “It’s become an artificial bullseye for the right-wing crazies. They don’t care TEACHER APPRECIATION continues on page 13
The Loudoun Retired Teachers Association is a local unit of retired teachers, administrators and other support personnel, established on June 6, 1951, to unify a commitment of life-long learning, voluntary service and civic participation. Under the motto “to serve, not be served,” members are actively involved in many volunteer activities. The association holds monthly lunch meetings from September to June at the School Division Administration Building in Broadlands. Annual dues are $45, which includes local, district and state dues. For more information, contact Loretta Hall at lohall72@ hotmail.com or Karen Elliott at kmelliott75@gmail.com. n
MAY 12, 2022
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MAY 12, 2022
Park View Hall of Famer, Football Pros Donate Football Gear LOUDOUN NOW STAFF REPORT
Dante Absher, a former Park View High School Football Player, was inducted into the school’s Hall of Fame over the weekend. And to celebrate, he doAbsher nated more than $5,000 worth of football equipment to the school. Absher, class of 2012, set multiple school records, then continued his football career at Glenville College and now plays wide receiver for the Montreal Alouettes in the Canadian Football League. In the month leading up to his induction, he raised money with a local nonprofit, Hearts of Empowerment, to buy new equipment for future Park View football players. Together they
bought than $5,000 of equipment and presented it on the day of his induction. Washington Commanders defensive tackle Jonathan Allen, a Stone Bridge High School alumnus, also contributed to the efforts by providing additional cleats. “Having the opportunity to give back to my high school football team means the world to me,” Absher said. “Football changed my life so me being on a platform to do so, I can’t pass up on the opportunity to give back because it gives kids hope that it’s possible to make it out.” Hearts of Empowerment, based in Arlington, is a nonprofit providing project planning for charities through the strength of collaboration. Over the last four years the nonprofit has raised more than $300,000, partnered with more than 30 different organizations, and mobilized more than 200 volunteers. n
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Teacher appreciation continued from page 10 about education, they’re just trying to rally their base,” she said. “I know so many teachers that are considering leaving the profession because they’re sick of being bullied or attacked or worrying about every word coming out of their mouth because of Youngkin’s tip line.” She is referring to the email address established by Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s administration allowing people to report the teaching of “divisive concepts” in schools. Upon his swearing in on Jan. 15, Youngkin issued a series of executive orders targeting education, following campaign promises that frequently pointed to Loudoun County schools. Executive Order One calls to end the use of “inherent-
Records request continued from page 10 in nature, the division’s liability insurance provider, VACORP, is reportedly not covering the legal fees associated with the special grand jury. When news of the special grand jury
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
ly divisive concepts,” including Critical Race Theory, in schools. Cris Candace Tuck, a local activist and LCPS parent, said after four years of sending his children to Loudoun County Public Schools, he’s never seen material that sparked concern. “Teachers are phenomenal and if you trust teachers at the core of this issue then you know that no teacher is going to do anything to harm a child or expose them to something that is going to hurt them in any way,” Tuck said. School choice is a prominent political issue, as Youngkin is calling for the establishment of more state-run charter schools, similar to the model in North Carolina, where there are more than 200. Opponents of the idea argue that school choice would divert dollars from public education, and that district schools would suffer. n broke, Public Information Officer Wayde Byard released a statement sharing that Loudoun County Public Schools intends to cooperate “with the lawful requests of the special grand jury, while protecting the privacy rights of our students to the extent permitted by law and in accordance with all applicable legal privileges.” n
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Looking for a Few Good Loudoun Fellows Are you spiritually hungry? Do you want to LIVE your Christian faith in a more challenging and effective way? Are you ready for more study, so that you can deepen your relationship with Christ and further the work of God’s kingdom on earth? Then you are invited to join the Fellows Program, a year-long discipleship program from the C.S. Lewis Institute – Loudoun County, designed for those men and women who are ready to be intentional about spiritual growth and God’s work. The Fellows Program’s lifeThe Fellows Program works! changing opportunity is A survey of our Fellows found designed to be dramatically that 76% would be willing to spiritually transformative. lead a discipleship group in It runs for one academic their home; 100% experienced year (September – June), an increase in their involvement with summer readings in ministry to their family and beforehand, and a retreat community; 88% increased in September to formally their involvement in workplace initiate the year. Each month examines a different biblical ministry; and 84% said the theme, with an overall program had “transformed or focus on spiritual formation, significantly impacted their life.” apologetics, evangelism and our call to serve others. A combination of dynamic teachers and writers, experienced mentors, effective small groups and active engagement with Scripture produces mature believers who can articulate, defend and joyfully live out their Christian faith in every aspect of their life. It is a true feast for hungry souls seeking “more.” Please prayerfully consider joining us for this exciting next step in your journey with Christ. We will be accepting Loudoun County applications through May 15, 2022 (C.S. Lewis Institute Loudoun County | C.S. Lewis Institute). Cost of the Program -- due to generous support of the program, there is no tuition cost to the Program. Each Fellow is only responsible for their books, materials and the cost of the retreat. For more information about the C.S. Lewis Institute and the Fellows Program, please go to www.cslewisinstitute.org or contact Tim Bradley at t.bradley@cslewisinstitute.org.
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Public Safety
SAFETY briefs
Loudoun Fire-Rescue Mourns Sabella LOUDOUN NOW STAFF REPORT
On Saturday, the Loudoun County Combined Fire Rescue System announced its first Operational Medical Director, Dr. Donald Sabella, has died. According to Loudoun Fire-Rescue Chief Keith Johnson’s letter to system members, Sabella graduated from Georgetown University Medical School in 1972 and immediately got involved in emergency medicine, including joining a volunteer first aid crew. He came to work in the Loudoun Memorial Hospital’s emergency room in 1980, rising to the role of chair of the Emergency Department which he held until 2002.
Dr. Donald Sabella
MAY 12, 2022
He is credited as the driving force in the expansion of emergency services at the hospital. That included emergency room expansions, increases in staffing, the hospital’s move from Leesburg to Lansdowne, and the establishment of a free-standing emergency room. The Emergency Department at Loudoun Hospital Center in Lansdowne is dedicated to Sabella. Sabella served as the Loudoun Fire-Rescue system’s operational medical director from 1984 to 2003. In 1990, he was recognized with the Governor’s Award for Outstanding Contribution to Virginia’s EMS System, according to the fire-rescue system, and in 1995 was given Loudoun’s Clark Deener Award. n
Woman Killed May 5 in Ashburn Crash The Sheriff’s Office is investigating a crash that killed one woman and left a man hospitalized with injuries last week in Ashburn. According to the Sheriff’s Office, at around 11:20 a.m. May 5, Deborah Michel, 65, of Ashburn, was traveling west on Windmill Drive in a Honda Civic when she was struck by a vehicle traveling north on Claiborne Parkway. Michel was transported to a hospital where she died of her injuries. The other driver, an adult male, also was taken to a hospital for treatment of his injuries. Investigators said there was no indication that the crash was caused by use of alcohol, drugs, or a cellphone.
Mother Faces Felonies After Leaving Children in Vehicle Sheriff’s Office deputies have charged SAFETY BRIEFS continues on page 14
The Disposable Plastic Bag Tax Starts July 1
Prepare Your Business Get ready at Biz.Loudoun.gov/bags
MAY 12, 2022
SAFETY briefs continued from page 14
a 51-year-old Ashburn woman with felony child abuse and neglect after she allegedly left two children unattended in her vehicle while she was shopping. According to the report, deputies were called to the Lansdowne Harris Teeter store around 3:30 p.m. April 24 after witnesses reported hearing the children crying and in distress in the heat and called for emergency services. At their arrival, the mother had returned, and fire and rescue personnel were tending to the children. Investigators determined that the children were left in the locked vehicle for approximately 20 minutes. The mother was arrested and taken to the Loudoun Adult Detention Center. She has been released on a $2,000 unsecured bond.
LOUDOUNNOW.COM session of a controlled substance. He was held without bond at the Loudoun Adult Detention Center.
Loudoun Jury Hands Down $2,500 Speeding Fine A Loudoun County Circuit Court jury this week imposed the maximum penalty allowed by law to a Fairfax man after he was detected driving 103 miles per hour on Rt. 606. The misdemeanor reckless driving charge stemmed from a Nov. 28, 2020,
PAGE 15
incident in which Deputy M. Whitfield recorded Muhammed Demiroz’s 103 mph speed on a radar unit. The posted speed limit is 55 mph. Demiroz was found guilty of reckless driving in March 2021 following a District Court hearing, but he appealed the conviction to the Circuit Court. A jury trial was held May 5, resulting in another guilty verdict and a recommendation to impose the maximum $2,500 fine. The conviction also came with $711 in court costs.
Commonwealth’s Attorney Buta Biberaj issued a statement announcing the jury verdict. “We are grateful for the time and dedication given to this case by our Loudoun County citizens. Serving as a juror is the most powerful way to participate in the judicial process and to ensure that the voice of the community is heard. We appreciate the hard work of Dep. Whitfield, Mr. Dickey and our law enforcement partners in keeping our community safe,” she stated. n
Passed Out Driver Found with Drugs, Weapon A 31-year-old driver found asleep behind the wheel at a Sterling stoplight last Thursday night wound up with a bed in the Loudoun Adult Detention Center. According to the Sheriff’s Office, deputies were called to the intersection of West Maple Avenue and South Sterling Boulevard at 9:41 p.m. May 5 to investigate a report of a man passed out at a stoplight. While attending to the suspect, deputies found a concealed weapon and drugs. The Sterling man was charged with driving under the influence, possession of a controlled substance, carrying a concealed handgun while under the influence, and possession of a firearm while in pos-
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Volunteer Amelia Gardner helps organize Angel Tree gifts in 2016. The Salvation Army of Loudoun Angel Tree Team was recognized as the Outstanding Adult Volunteer Team.
Loudoun Cares Announces Outstanding Volunteer Honorees LOUDOUN NOW STAFF REPORT
Loudoun Cares this week announced its 2022 Outstanding Volunteer Award honorees, selecting 19 people and organizations from among 66 nominations. The organization is also awarding the Judy Hines Service of a Lifetime award
that honors volunteers having served Loudoun County for over 10 years, and the “RiseUp Award” which honors outstanding volunteer service in the wake of the COVID-19 crisis. Additionally, VOLUNTEERS continues on page 19
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MAY 12, 2022
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GIVING back Sipocz Joins Veterans Coalition Board Leesburg-based Coalition to Salute America’s Heroes has elected Cathy Sipocz to its Board of Directors. As Executive Director of Building Veterans, Sipocz supSipocz ports veterans struggling with personal issues and addictions associated with PTSD, head and brain trauma, and depression. “Cathy is one of the most altruistic and caring leaders in the non-profit community,” stated David Walker, president & CEO of the Coalition. “I’ve witnessed her work firsthand, and few do it better. She has dedicated her life to serving Veterans, working tirelessly to help those who are homeless, in need of comportment skills and/or transitional housing. Her experience at Building Veterans and in other roles adds tremendous value to our board of directors.”
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In 2016, Sipocz began working with the National Warrior Foundation where she met the founder of Building Veterans and joined its team as the director of development in Brunswick, MD. Previously, she led the Frederick County Foster Parents Association. “It’s a great honor to be elected as a board member for the Coalition to Salute America’s Heroes,” said Sipocz. “We have partnered with the Coalition on multiple projects for many years, so I have seen the incredible impact the organization has had on the lives of combat-wounded Veterans and their families. I am blessed to be in a position to help advance the Coalition’s mission in the years to come, and I take that responsibility very seriously.” The coalition provides direct financial assistance to wounded veterans. Learn more at saluteheroes.org.
Greenway Race Raises $220K for Charities The second annual Run the Greenway event drew more than 1,700 registered GIVING BACK continues on page 18
Local Leadership. Local Assets. Local Needs. Won’t You Join Us? CommunityFoundationLF.org | (703) 779-3505
PAGE 18
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MAY 12, 2022
GIVING back continued from page 17 participants for 10K and 5K races on the toll road, an 800-meter fun run, along with a virtual race. Cory Welch of Purcellville was the fastest runner in Saturday’s Run the Greenway 10K race, completing the course with a time of 33:23 minutes. The top female finisher was Samantha Martin of Falls Church, finishing at 44:19 and 12th
among the 225 runners, according to the posted race results. Rob Dettmann of Baltimore set the pace in the 5K race, posting a time of 16.27. Elizabeth Clor of Chantilly was the top female finisher at 21:40. More than 500 runners posted times in the 5K. The event raised more than $220,000 to support 22 participating nonprofits. Ashburn-based cancer support group Step Sisters ranked as the event’s top fund raising, with $19,595. n
PUBLISHER’S NOTICE We are pledged to the letter and spirit of Virginia’s policy for achieving equal housing opportunity throughout the Commonwealth. We encourage and support advertising and marketing programs in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, familial status or handicap. All real estate advertised herein is subject to Virginia’s fair housing law which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, familial status or handicap or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination.” This newspaper will not knowingly accept advertising for real estate that violates the fair housing law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. For more information or to file a housing complaint call the Virginia Fair Housing Office at (804) 367-9753.
fairhousing@dpor.virginia.gov • www.fairhousing.vipnet.org
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MAY 12, 2022
Volunteers continued from page 16 county supervisors nominated volunteers in their districts for special recognition. The awards were scheduled to be presented during a May 12 ceremony at the River Creek Club. “This is absolutely my favorite event of the year,” Loudoun Cares Executive Director Valerie Pisierra said. “We need to recognize and congratulate the outstanding service of those volunteers that have donated their time, faced the challenge head-on, and made a significant impact on the lives of our residents. The amazing work of our volunteers in this county is exceptional. The stories will inspire any listener to get involved. Their service and dedication to this community needs to be celebrated.”
Jones, Loudoun County Volunteer Fire and Rescue; Outstanding Senior Public Safety Volunteer Brad Quin, Purcellville Volunteer Fire; Outstanding Veteran Volunteer Rebecca Ortego, The HeartWoRx; Outstanding Volunteer Team Sterling Volunteer Rescue Squad; Outstanding Volunteer Project RoboLoCo, Academies of Loudoun; Outstanding Youth Volunteer Team StoryBook Treasures Team, Briar Woods High School; Outstanding Corporate Volunteer Team Apple Federal Credit Union Employees; Outstanding Community/Civic Volunteer Organization CAST Program, Rock Ridge High School; and
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Outstanding Nonprofit Volunteer Board, the board of the George C. Marshall International Center. County supervisors’ recognitions are: Algonkian District, Virginia Voyack, Loudoun Hunger Relief; Ashburn District, Alex Reif, Boy Scouts of America; Broad Run District, Katrece Nolen, Step Sisters; Dulles District, Dulles South Soup Kitchen; Leesburg District, Vicente Gonzalez, New Virginia Majority; Sterling District, Amy Gazes, Park View High School; and At-Large, Lisa Jones, Silence No More Movement. n
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Juanita Easton of the Humane Society of Loudoun was awarded the Judy Hines Service of a Lifetime award.
The Judy Hines Service of a Lifetime award went to Juanita Easton of the Humane Society of Loudoun. The Gabriella Miller Youth Volunteer award went to Seoyoung Jun of INMED Partnership for Children. And the RiseUp Award went Eva Maria Torres-Herrera, INMED Partnership for Children. Other honorees include Outstanding Adult Volunteer Gerco Hoogeweg, Loudoun Wildlife Conservatory; Outstanding Adult Volunteer Team The Salvation Army of Loudoun Angel Tree Team; Outstanding Adult Public Safety recognition for Kevin Kelly, Purcellville Volunteer Rescue Squad Outstanding Senior Volunteer Larry Messner, George C. Marshall International Center; Outstanding Senior Volunteer Mohammad Raees, Legal Services of Northern Virginia; Outstanding Senior Volunteer Team Loudoun Medicare Counseling Team - Loudoun County Area Agency on Aging; Outstanding Senior Public Safety Volunteer James
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MAY 12, 2022
BUSINESS announcements
Business
Inova Earns A’s for Safety
Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now
XCAL Shooting Sports and Fitness Founder and CEO Jeffrey F. Brown, center, and co-founder Jason Brown speak at the May 7 grand opening ceremony.
XCAL Opens Firearms, Fitness Complex in Ashburn BY NORMAN K. STYER nstyer@loudounnow.com
Loudoun’s newest training and entertainment complex, XCAL Shooting Sports and Fitness, formally opened on May 8. The $30 million, 95,000-square-foot center features a state-of-the art indoor gun range, an upscale fitness center, one of the region’s largest firearms retail stores, a restaurant, and a private club for members. The center is the dream of Jason Brown and brought to reality with the help of his retired Navy officer father, Jeffrey F. Brown. The opening comes 16 years after Jason began developing the concept and more than a decade after he started partnering with his father to flesh it out. They bought the land—next to two other well-established Ashburn entertainment destinations, TopGolf and the iFLY indoor skydiving center—in 2017. But XCAL is expected to be more than a regional destination for gun enthusiasts. It’s a family-owned business with designs on serving the surrounding neighborhoods as a community asset.
“We have three generations of Browns working here. You don’t do this without family, and it is great being here with family working, and we’ve got an employee group back here that we treat like family,” Jeff Brown said during the opening ceremony attended by state Sen. John J. Bell (D-13) and Supervisor Sylvia Glass (D-Broad Run). While the center offers exclusive memberships that provide access to a private club with a full bar, restaurant, billiard room, cigar room, conference space rooms, monthly memberships for use of the firing ranges or the second-floor fitness center are designed to fit most household budgets. “We want the community who lives here to be able to afford to come here,” Jeff Brown said. The hallmark of the center is the shooting range complex, built as a separate concrete bunker largely wrapped in acoustic material with innovations that include a sophisticated ventilation system and cameras that provide range safety officers a forward-facing view of the shooters. “All that design work here was to create a safe, quiet, healthy environment for new shooters and experienced shooters to
come in and really have a great time at the range,” he said. “It’s just the cleanest, quietest range you’ll ever see.” The shooting complex includes a tactical range that can be opened up from its lane configuration for specialized training, a luxury range and five private ranges. Other elements serve to separate XCAL from other area ranges, such as leaving politics at the door and providing a welcoming alternative to the typically gruff or grumpy range officer. “We’re not political at all here. We’re going to train and build enthusiasm for the sport of shooting, and we think that is what we need to do. We believe in how much fun that is,” Brown said. The center offers rental weapons and lessons for novices wishing to learn the proper, safe way to handle firearms. He noted the first reaction that he sees in most first-time shooters: “It is just a big smile, and that’s what we believe in. We believe in doing it right—to be a great place to shoot, and work out, and eat, and shop.” XCAL Shooting Sports and Fitness is located at 44950 Russell Branch Parkway in Ashburn. Learn more at xcal.com. n
All five Inova hospitals have again received “A” grades by the Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade for spring 2022. This national distinction recognizes achievements in protecting patients from preventable harm and error in the hospital. Inova Loudoun Hospital is one of only 22 hospitals in the United States, and one of only four in Virginia to be awarded an “A” every grading cycle since 2012, with 21 consecutive A’s earned. Inova Fair Oaks has received 20 consecutive “A” grades; Inova Mount Vernon has received 16 in a row since 2014; and Inova Alexandria Hospital and Inova Fairfax Hospital have received the top grade eight consecutive times since 2018. The assessment is based on 30 performance measures reflecting errors, accidents, injuries and infections, as well as systems hospitals have in place to prevent harm. To see Inova’s full grade details and to access patient tips for staying safe in the hospital, go to hospitalsafetygrade.org.
Flagship Carwash Opens Second Ashburn Location Flagship Carwash has opened an express location at 43985 Pipeline Plaza in Ashburn Village. It purchased the station in 2021, along with two other locations and has since been updating equipment and technology. As part of the equipment updates, the car wash, which previously housed a chain-in conveyor, now uses a flat-belt conveyor that can accommodate exotics, low-riders and dual tire vehicles. Flagship’s third Ashburn location in Ashburn Junction will open in June. “We are excited to re-open the Ashburn locations as these communities have been without a high-quality car wash in the area for quite some time and we know their vehicles are in need of some TLC,” stated President Guy Paolozzi. For more information, go to flagshipcarwash.com. ANNOUNCEMENTS continues on page 21
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MAY 12, 2022
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BUSINESS announcements continued from page 20
Post your job listings at NowHiringLoudoun.com Town of Leesburg Employment Opportunities Please visit www.leesburgva.gov/jobs for more information and to apply online. Resumes may be submitted as supplemental only. EOE/ADA. Regular Full-Time Positions Position
StoneSprings Emergency Dept. Earns HCA Award StoneSprings Hospital Center’s Emergency Department has earned the 2022 HCA Healthcare Unit of Distinction Award. The annual program that recognizes exemplary nursing units at HCA Healthcare sites of care. “The Unit of Distinction program celebrates how nurses across our organization are achieving top outcomes. It’s how we execute our nursing strategy and unites us all towards a common goal,” stated Dr. Sammie Mosier, senior vice president and chief nurse executive of HCA Healthcare. In a ceremony broadcast from HCA Healthcare’s headquarters in Nashville, TN, on April 26, StoneSprings nursing units were recognized as top-performing nursing units. Units of Distinction are categorized in the top five percent of all HCA Healthcare medical surgical, critical care, emergency services, surgical services, behavioral health, women’s and children’s nursing units, pediatrics/PICU and inpatient rehabilitation units.
Business Women Forum: Authoring Your Brand The Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce’s Business Women of Loudoun Committee will feature Katie Barchas Wilson during its May 17 networking and lunch event. Wilson, the president of The Market Group, will discuss how to create brands that connect with key targets and inspire them to act. The event will be held at the Belmont Country Club starting at 11 a.m. Tickets are $39 for chamber members and $45 for non-members. Register at loudounchamber.org. n
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Summer Positions Position
Department Maintenance Worker
Hourly Rate Utilities
$15.00
Closing Date Open until filled
Flexible Part-Time Position Position
Department
Hourly Rate
Closing Date
Library Assistant
Thomas Balch Library
$20.51-$33.42 DOQ
Open until filled
Parking Enforcement Officer
Finance
$16.86-$28.85 DOQ
Open until filled
Senior Engineer
Plan Review
$55.00-$70.00 DOQ
Open until filled
To review Ida Lee (Parks & Recreation) flexible part-time positions, please visit www.leesburgva.gov/jobs. Most positions will be filled at or near the minimum of the range. Dependent on qualifications. All Town vacancies may be viewed on Comcast Cable Channel 67 and Verizon FiOS Channel 35.
eCommerce Customer Service Associate Stallion Enterprises LLC seeks a eCommerce Customer Service Associate in Ashburn, VA to engage in fulfillment process independently of supervision. Rqmts: 6 months of exp. as a customer service agent or a related occupation. Exp. must include the following skills: phone interaction with customers, &; email/social media marketing experience. Please send all resumes to stallionent8@gmail.com.
DRIVERS NEEDED Regular & CDL Call 703-737-3011
See the full job listings at NowHiringLoudoun.com
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MAY 12, 2022
Towns
AROUND towns
Purcellville Council, Commission Reset on Zoning Work BY NORMAN K. STYER nstyer@loudounnow.com
The effort to update Purcellville’s zoning code to implement the vision of its new town plan is off to a rocky start. During a May 5 Planning Commission work session, commissioners raised concerns that the consultant team, Cincinnati-based ZoneCo, already was straying from the town’s adopted policies with the first draft of its proposed zoning map. The friction continued Monday night during a joint meeting with the Town Council when commissioners restated their expectation that the land use map in the adopted town plan—not an altered version created by the consultant— should form the base of the zoning work. ZoneCo project manager Sean Suder said alterations proposed in the first draft were intended to advance the community form concepts championed in the plan based on their survey of existing land uses. One change, to create a zone for properties along the W&OD Trail, he said was to better take advantage of that asset by promoting special uses and designs there. But commissioners said the consultants should stick to the map that was developed after years of community input and debate. Commission Chairwoman Nan Joseph Forbes said it was presumptuous to propose change to that work at this point in the process. At the end of the hour-long meeting, the council generally supported the commission’s stance that the work should start with the adopted map, but did not rule out new ideas as the work continues. Mayor Kwasi Fraser said it was important that the consultant follow the wishes of the commission and that the council not become an arbitrator for disputes in the process. “I do not want the planning commissioners to come to us with 35 line items of concern every other week or every month when this town council with their families have two meetings a month. We shouldn’t have a third meeting,” he said.
Draft Purcellville zoning map
ALDIE Mosby’s Rangers Program Continues Sunday Join NOVA Parks on Sunday for the second program of its seven-part series Scouting Mosby’s Rangers at Mt. Zion Historic Park in Aldie. The second program, titled “The Life of John Singleton Mosby,” begins at 1 p.m. The series runs monthly through October, with author and historian Eric Buckland sharing stories of the 43rd Battalion Virginia Cavalry at the site where they first formed under the command of Mosby in 1863. Future dates and topics can be found at novaparks.com/parks/ mt-zion-historic-park. Cost is $5 per program at the door, or $25 for the series by registering online. Mt. Zion Historic Park is located at 40309 John Mosby Highway.
BLUEMONT Fair Poster Art Selected
Town of Purcellville
The draft Purcellville zoning map presented by town consultants ZoneCo stirred controversy by deviating in some areas from the Town Plan’s adopted land use map.
“The vendor needs to comply with the comprehensive plan, end of story. We should not have a vendor coming up with creative maps. The comprehensive plan clearly states what the map is.” Town Manager David Mekarski and Town Attorney Sally Hankins said the consultant’s work was not in conflict with the plan, but part of the process of implementing an ordinance that is focused on neighborhood character and form rather than regulating uses. “I’m happy to use whatever map you want me to use, just tell us what it is,” Suder said. But he noted that is just a starting point for the implementation discussion. “We think one of the values as a consultant is to come in and give you fresh eyes and fresh thinking and also to chal-
lenge you a little bit,” he said. Council members Joel Grewe and Erin Rayner said it was in the best interest of the town to be open to ideas suggested by the experts the council hired to lead the work. Councilman Tip Stinnette acknowledged the challenges that will come with developing a zoning ordinance after so much work went into creating the plan. “A lot of blood, sweat and tears expended in the community, the staff, and on council and the planning commission as well, a lot of scar tissue was created when we created out comp plan,” he said. He urged caution when considering changes to those polices, suggesting that when the planners find themselves deviating from the plan that they consider it a “stop, drop and roll moment.” n
Organizers of the 52nd Bluemont Fair have selected Holly Talada as the winner of the annual poster design contest. The Winchester resident Talada grew up in Round Hill and taught in Loudoun County. Her watercolor shows a farmer working a field with a horse team—matching this year’s fair theme of Bluemont’s Draft Horse Farming Era. The fair theme ties into the special exhibit at the Plaster Museum of Bluemont Heritage, “Agriculture in Bluemont: 19th Thru 21st Century Farms,” which is open to visitors during Bluemont’s Farmers Market on Sundays, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., and throughout the fair weekend in September. The barn shown in the background of Talada’s art is at Glenmeade, the large Bluemont farm owned by the Plaster family for over 200 years. The last resident, Henry Plaster, died earlier this year. For more information about the fair go to bluemontfair.org. AROUND TOWNS continues on page 23
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MAY 12, 2022
AROUND towns continued from page 22
HAMILTON Budget Public Hearing Scheduled for May 23 The Town Council will hold a public hearing on its Fiscal Year 2023 budget and fee schedule May 23, starting at 7 p.m. in the Town Office. The council is proposing a 2-cent reduction in its real estate tax rate, to 26 cents per $100 of assessed value, and no changes to its utility rates. The proposed budget totals $2.715 million, slightly less than this year’s $2.772 million spending plan.
LOVETTSVILLE Historical Society Resumes Lectures with Climate Change The Lovettsville Historical Society on Sunday will resume its popular lecture series with a talk by historian Eugene Scheel, who will present his findings on climate change in Loudoun County over the centuries. The programs were curtailed in 2020 because of the pandemic. Scheel’s lecture will begin with American Indian times, through data beginning in 1748, and with excerpts from many farmers’ and written descriptions of the 19th and 20th centuries. The event will held be in-person at the Lovettsville Town Council Chambers, and will be streamed via Zoom. To request the Zoom link, email events@Lovettsville HistoricalSociety.org For more information, go to lovettsvillehistoricalsociety.org.
LUCKETTS Ruritans Offer Zoning Ordinance Prep Talk Lucketts-area residents and business owners are invited to learn how to prepare for the public input cycle of the Loudoun County Zoning Ordinance rewrite process during a Tuesday, May 17, forum at the community center starting a 7 p.m. The facilitated “prep-talk” hosted by the Lucketts Ruritan Club, will include an overview of best practices for finding the topics most important to attendees and tips for how to submit constructive comments via the county’s online tools.
MIDDLEBURG Art in the Burg Planned May 21 On Saturday, May 21, the Middleburg Arts Council and the Town of Middleburg will host the spring installment of its biannual arts celebration, Art in the Burg. The event will feature artwork from more than 30 local and regional artists, street theater performances, a fashion show, activities for kids, and cooking demonstrations on South Madison Street, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. During Art in the Burg, visitors will be able to visit Art of the Ox, a pop-art exhibit at Old Ox Brewery, 14 S. Madison St. In addition to paintings and sculptures, visitors to the exhibit will also be able to observe a chalk artist work on a piece that will be auctioned at the end of the day. Proceeds from the auction will benefit Virginia Piedmont Heritage Area Association. Musicians from the Hunt Country Music Festival will roam the streets and actors from Tagragg Productions will present 10-Minute Musical performances on the Art in the Burg stage. Salamander chefs will provide two cooking demonstrations. A fashion show, featuring local businesses and schools, will also be held on the Art in the Burg stage. Attendees are encouraged to bring unopened cans of food to help construct the Art CAN Help sculpture on the lawn of the Middleburg United Methodist Church at 15 W. Washington St. For additional information, go to middleburgva.gov/art.
PURCELLVILLE Auction to Support Bike Park Discover Purcellville is organizing a May 21 auction at the Bush Tabernacle to raise money for the construction of Adam’s Bike Park. The project to be built near the town’s Maple Avenue water tower is sponsored by Michelle Caudill to honor her son Adam, who died in January 2021 at the age of 15. The Caudill Family has organized a group of volunteers, along with support from the Town Council and grant funding, to develop the town’s first bike park on a one-acre lot that will be connected to the W&OD Trail. The grant opening is planned for June 1, Adam’s birthday. Organizers seeking tax-deductible donations of any money, products, services, gift cards, and other auction items. To contribute, contact Michelle Caudill at MichelleSCaudill@gmail. com, 410-598-2151 or Michael Oaks at discoverpurcellville@gmail.com.
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MAY 12, 2022
Loco Living
THINGS to do LOCO LIVE Live Music: Peter Baker
Thursday, May 12, 5-8 p.m. MacDowell Brew Kitchen, 202 South St. SE, Leesburg Details: macsbeach.com Baker brings acoustic tunes to Mac’s Beach for a mellow Thursday evening.
Live Music: Shade Tree Collective
Friday, May 13, 5 p.m. Dirt Farm Brewing, 18701 Foggy Bottom Road, Bluemont Details: dirtfarmbrewing.com This Maryland-based five-piece ensemble will get you dancing with traditional bluegrass.
Live Music: Kev Bev
Friday, May 13, 5 p.m. Vanish Farmwoods Brewery, 42245 Black Hops Lane, Lucketts Details: vanishbeer.com This indie/funk/R&B band was launched in 2014 by multi-instrumentalist frontman Kevin Collins. The Austin, TX, collective released their second studio album “Love Lemonade” in 2018.
VAL Plaza Party: The Thistle Brothers
Friday, May 13, 6-9 p.m. Village At Leesburg, 1602 Village Market Blvd., Leesburg Details: villageatleesburg.com This brotherly duo blends folk, R&B and classic rock influences for an eclectic Saturday night sound.
Live Music: Panic for the Vibe Renss Greene/Loudoun Now
The Reflex opens the 2021 Tarara Summer Concert Series with an ‘80s night on July 3, 2021. They will return to the stage on May 28 to kick off the 2022 season.
Loudoun Gets Its Groove Back Summer Concert Season 2022 Is Officially Here
BY JAN MERKCER
jmercker@loudounnow.com
Is 2022 officially the summer of normal(ish)? Loudoun’s summer concert organizers think the answer is a resounding yes. And they’re ready to meet pent-up demand for outdoor concerts with a range of fantastic options from folksy singer/songwriters to rocking tribute bands. “This is our first ‘normal’ year since 2019. We’ve put more resources behind things. We have more national acts coming in,” said Rusty Foster, organizer of the Tarara Summer Concert Series. “I may be a little biased, but I think this is our best lineup this season.” The series kicks off Saturday, May 28 with DMV ’80s tribute favorites The Reflex. Foster says he’s used fan feedback to come up with a lineup of regionally
beloved cover bands and nationally touring tribute bands. This year’s series ranges from longtime crowd favorites like The Reflex and Gonzo’s Nose (whose members come out of retirement once a year for the Tarara show) to new national acts like the New York-based Double Vision who pay tribute to the iconic 70s and 80s rock band Foreigner. Foster said while his heart is firmly in the ’80s, his goal is to offer something for everyone. “I could listen to an ’80s cover band every week,” he said. “I love The Reflex, and I love opening the season with them.” Foster has booked another regional ’80s favorite, The Legwarmers, for a July 2 Independence Day weekend show, but the series spans the decades, from oldies rock from The Fabulous Hubcaps to a ’70s dance party from Groovalicious to ’90s covers from White Ford Bronco who wrap
up the series Sept. 24. Foster, who owns the Bow Tie Strategies public relations and event management firm, has been running the concert series since 2017. He said there’s been some confusion about the status of the series since Tarara’s owners announced they were shutting down winery operations last spring. But the message in 2022 is that the concert series is 100 percent up and running as Tarara shifts from a winery to an events venue. The series will still offer Tarara wines for sale, along with beer and hard seltzer from Loudoun Brewing Company. Foster said Tarara’s owners have made upgrades to the concert space, clearing trees and refurbishing the dance floor for the new season. Foster said the venue’s private tents SUMMER CONCERTS continues on page 26
Friday, May 13, 6-9:30 p.m. MacDowell Brew Kitchen, 202 South St. SE, Leesburg Details: macsbeach.com Chill out with bass-driven grooves and soulfulcadenced rhyme schemes with elements of funk, R&B and rock.
Live Music: Shannon Bielski and Moonlight Drive
Saturday, May 13, 8 p.m. Monk’s BBQ, 251 N. 21st St., Purcellville Details: monksq.com Bielski is back at Monk’s with acoustic renditions of bluegrass, country and pop favorites.
Live Music: Red and Christopher Henry
Friday, May 13, 8 p.m. and Sunday, May 15, 4 p.m. B Chord Brewing, 34266 Williams Gap Road, Round Hill Details: bchordbrewing.com The Henrys are internationally known for their dynamic stage shows, original songs and tunes, humor and family harmony. Hall of famer Marshall Wilborn joins the father and son team on bass. Both shows are free.
Live Music: Pool Boys
Saturday, May 14, 1 p.m. Vanish Farmwoods Brewery, 42245 Black Hops Lane, Lucketts Details: vanishbeer.com Pool Boys are back at Vanish with their signature blend of alternative rock from the 90s and early 2000s.
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MAY 12, 2022
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BEST BETS
LOCO FOOD TRUCK FESTIVAL Saturday, May 14, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Segra Field loudoun.gov/5413/PRCS-Special-Events
THINGS to do continued from page 24
Live Music: On Easy Street
Saturday,May 14, 1 p.m. Maggie Malick Wine Caves, 12138 Harpers Ferry Road, Neersville Details: maggiemalickwinecaves.com This Northern Virginia four-piece serves up favorite jazz tunes.
Live Music: The Hokums
Saturday, May 14, 2 p.m. 8 Chains North Winery, 38593 Daymont Lane, Waterford Details: 8chainsnorth.com The Hokums deliver acoustic jam music with strong hooks in blues, rock, ragtime and folk. Soulful vocals and greasy rhythm guitar overlaid with tasty mandolin and harmonica are always crowd pleasers.
Live Music: Will Shepard
Saturday, May 14, 5 p.m. Harpers Ferry Brewing, 37412 Adventure Center Lane, Loudoun Heights Details: facebook.com/harpersferrybrewing Singer/songwriter Will Shepard returns to HFB for an evening of great tunes.
Live Music: Shane Gamble
Saturday, May 14, 5:30 p.m. Flying Ace Distillery and Brewery, 40950 Flying Ace Lane, Lovettsville Details: flyingacefarm.com Rising country music star Shane Gamble has several hit singles under his belt and a new EP on the horizon.
Live Music: Lost Locals
Saturday, May 14, 6 p.m. Black Walnut Brewery, 212 S. King St., Leesburg Details: facebook.com/blackwalnutbrewery From rock to funk to pop, they cover it all: from The Beatles to Blondie, from Billy Idol to the Black Crowes and beyond.
VAL Plaza Party: Mark Scott Trio
Saturday, May 14, 6-9 p.m. Village At Leesburg, 1602 Village Market Blvd., Leesburg Details: villageatleesburg.com This longtime DMV performer covers classic and contemporary favorites.
BUCKCHERRY Saturday, May 14, 7 p.m. (doors) Tally Ho Theater tallyhotheater.com
Live Music: Buckcherry
Saturday, May 14, 8 p.m. Tally Ho Theater, 19 W. Market St., Leesburg Details: tallyhotheater.com Formed in Los Angeles in 1995, Buckcherry helped keep the flames of hard rock alive in the post-grunge era. Tickets are $35.
Live Music: Berlin Calling
Saturday, May 14, 8-11 p.m. Crooked Run Fermentation, 22455 Davis Drive #120, Sterling Details: crookedrunbrewing.com It’s an ’80s dance party with Berlin Calling.
Live Music: Banana Hammer
Sunday, May 15, 1 p.m. Harpers Ferry Brewing, 37412 Ad venture Center Lane, Loudoun Heights Details: facebook.com/harpersferrybrewing This three-piece band covers reggae-rock favorites like Sublime along with roots reggae icons and skank-style versions of pop and hip hop hits.
Live Music: Chasing Autumn
Sunday, May 15, 2 p.m. Flying Ace Distillery and Brewery, 40950 Flying Ace Lane, Lovettsville Details: flyingacefarm.com DMV favorites Dan Gallagher and Josh Earls serve up originals and covers.
Live Music: Famous Last Words
Sunday, May 15, 2 p.m. Harvest Gap Brewery, 15485 Purcellville Road, Hillsboro Details: harvestgap.com This acoustic duo made up of Chris Coutts and Maria Lynn brings favorite hits from the 60s to today.
Live Music: Juliet Lloyd
Sunday, May 15, 2 p.m. Breaux Vineyards, 36888 Breaux Vineyards Lane, Hillsboro Details: breauxvineyards.com Singer/songwriter/pianist Juliet Lloyd returns to Breaux with pop, rock and classic soul favorites.
Live Music: Ballyhoo
Thursday, May 19, 8 p.m. Tally Ho Theater, 19 W. Market St., Leesburg Details: tallyhotheater.com Mixing pop, reggae, rock, ska and punk, this Aberdeen, Maryland-based band is going strong after more than two decades of music. Tickets are $18, $35 for VIP seats.
NOVA MUSIC FEST Sunday, May 15, noon-7 p.m. 868 Estate Vineyards cancercanrock.org/events
LIBATIONS Dog Days at Breaux Vineyards Saturday, May 14, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Breaux Vineyards, 36888 Breaux Vineyards Lane, Hillsboro Details: breauxvineyards.com Bring your four-legged friends for a day of fun with live music, wine, dog rescue organizations, dogbased vendors, food vendors and local crafters. Dogs must remain on a leash at all times.
LoCo Food Truck Festival Saturday, May 14, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Segra Field, 42095 Loudoun United Drive, Leesburg Details: facebook.com/loudounprcs Check out the area’s best food trucks all in one place. The event is free and open to the public. No alcoholic beverages are allowed.
THINGS TO DO continues on page 26
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Nova MusicFest Returns Sunday at 868 Nova MusicFest is bigger this year than ever before, featuring seven hours of music from local, regional, and international musicians who are committed to raising money for the Cancer Can Rock foundation. The Greek and the Freak, Juliet Lloyd, Gary Smallwood, the Eric Scott Trio, the 19th Street Band, the Chris Timbers Band, Tommy Gann and Kim Pittinger, and the Jason Masi Band will take the stage at 868 Estate Vineyards near Hillsboro on May 15. Cancer Can Rock uses the money raised to invite musicians facing aggressive cancer into a studio with professionals to produce a song that serves as a tangible reminder of their recording experience. Jim Ebert, a multi-platinum record producer, founded Cancer Can Rock following his cancer diagnosis in 2001. Over the past two decades, he has worked to create recordings that provide pride for those who have survived cancer and solace for those who lost loved ones Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the gate. Children 12 and under are free. This event is dog-friendly, family friendly. Pop up tents are welcome. Outside alcohol is prohibited. For tickets or to learn more about the foundation’s work, go to cancercanrock.org. n
MAY 12, 2022
ist Georgia Randall. The list also includes longtime local favorites like Robbie Limon and Dave Mininberg. “We were looking to branch out,” Fountain said. “We were looking for more of a diverse blend of music styles for the concerts this year.” The Town of Leesburg’s Acoustic on the Green Series runs Saturdays from June 4 through Aug. 20. Admission is free. For a complete list of performances, go to leesburgva.gov.
Favorites from Middleburg to Hillsboro and Beyond
Summer concerts continued from page 24 have already sold out for more than half of the shows, and season pass sales are at an all-time high for early May—indications that Loudoun is ready to rock this summer. The Tarara Summer Concert Series runs Saturday, May 28 through Saturday, Sept. 24. For tickets and a full schedule, go to tararaconcerts.com.
Acoustic on the Green Organizers of Leesburg’s Acoustic on the Green concert series are also expecting high turnout this year as they focus on fresh faces and diverse musical offerings. Linda Fountain, events and community outreach manager for the Town of Lees-
THINGS to do continued from page 25
Arts for All ‘Fun Raiser’
Saturday, May 14, 6-9 p.m. Kalero Vineyard, 36140 Charles Town Pike, Hillsboro Details: artsforallloudoun.org Arts for All’s spring fundraiser features fun competition from Game Show LoCo, a catered dinner with beer and Kalero wine and performances from Arts for All’s recent hit musical “Seussical.” Tickets are $75 and include dinner and two drinks.
LOCO CULTURE Last Ham Standing Comedy Improv
Friday, May 13, 8-10 p.m. Franklin Park Arts Center, 36441 Blueridge View Lane, Purcellville Details: franklinparkartscenter.org This hilarious show is full of laughs for the whole family as performers take suggestions from the audience to create wacky scenes and improv games. Tickets are $14 for adults, $12 for seniors and $10 for children
Sly’s Magic Show
Friday, May 13, 7:30-9 p.m. StageCoach Theatre Company, 20937 Ashburn Road, Suites 115 and 120, Ashburn
burg, said Loudouners are ready to come together and experience music in the community at an outside venue. “Last year, I don’t think people were quite ready to come back. I’m hoping people are as excited as we are with this lineup,” Fountain said. “If you judge by the turnout at Flower and Garden, people are absolutely ready to get back to a more normal way of life and get out and do the things they’ve done in the past.” Acoustic on the Green kicks off Saturday, June 4 with the Caribbean Vibe Steel Drum Band, and this year’s season features plenty of first-time AOG performers. 2022 also brings a record number of women to the stage, including blues and soul rising star Meisha Herron, folk-rock singer/songwriter Calista Garcia, Wammie-winning Americana performer Melissa Quinn Fox and Florida-based blues artDetails: stagecoachtc.com Ashburn-based performer Alec Negri (AKA Sly) blends magic tricks and comedy for an evening of fun geared toward adults. Tickets are $15.
‘Painting Churches’ Saturday, May 14, 7 p.m. and Sunday, May 15, 2 p.m. StageCoach Theatre Company, 20937 Ashburn Road, Suites 115 and 120, Ashburn Details: stagecoachtc.com StageCoach Theatre presents the award-winning play “Painting Churches” by New York playwright Tina Howe. It’s an exploration of the parent/adult child relationship, the story of an aging couple moving from Boston to Cape Cod and their painter daughter.
Lovettsville Historical Society: Eugene Scheel Sunday, May 15, 2 p.m. Lovettsville Town Hall, 4 E. Pennsylvania Ave., Lovettsville Details: lovettsvillehistoricalsociety.org Noted local historian Eugene Scheel discusses the impact of climate change on Loudoun over the centuries from Native American times through data beginning in 1748, with excerpts from many farmers’ and written descriptions of the 19th and 20th centuries.
Here’s a peek at some more of Loudoun’s favorite summer concert series. Be sure to follow Get Out Loudoun for updates throughout the summer. Village at Leesburg keeps the music going every Friday and Saturday evening with its Plaza Party series hosting local and regional favorites all summer long. This weekend, fans can catch the Thistle Brothers Friday, May 13, and the Mark Scott Trio on Saturday. For May and June listings, go to villageatleesburg.com. The monthly Middleburg Community Center concerts are a community favorite showcasing a range of local talent. The lineup is still being finalized, but the Crooked Angels will take the stage Friday, May 27 as MCC opens its pool and kicks off the summer season. Middleburg native Bryan Fox will close out the series Oct. 21. Go to facebook.com/middleburgcc.va for details. Also in Middleburg, the National Sporting Library and Museum’s monthly Open Late Concert Series kicks off Friday, May 27 with blues from Fast Eddie & The Slowpokes. The series, held on the last Friday of each month through August, also features the Silver Tones Swing Band, Americana from The Knuckle Dusters and Nashville-based country duo Martin and Kelly. Go to facebook.com/ nslm.102 for information and the 2022 schedule. Hillsboro’s Music in the Gap concert series at the historic Old Stone School runs Friday evenings July 8 through Sept. 2 with old favorites and fresh voices. The weekly series kicks off with fan favorite Grateful Dead tribute band Born Cross Eyed and features a diverse range of genres, from high power brass from the Texas Chainsaw Horns to the West African-inspired big band sound from Chopteeth Afrofunk Big Band to the popular Beatles cover band Mostly Fab. Go to oldstoneschool.org for the complete schedule. n
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MAY 12, 2022
Death Notices William “Bill” Will died on May 3, 2022, at age 70. He was born on June 14, 1951, in Newark, New Jersey. Bill is survived by his beloved wife of 48 years, Gerri F. Will, of Sterling, Virginia; their son Brad Will, Brad’s wife Carla, and their daughter Isabel of Ashburn, Virginia; their daughter Beth Leon-Frank, Beth’s husband Miguel, and their children Donovan and Alexandra of Purcellville, Virginia; Bill’s brother Dan, Dan’s wife Karen, and their daughter Hannah of York, Maine. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Prostate Cancer Foundation (https:// www.pcf.org/) or another Prostate Cancer charity/research organization of choice. A visitation will be held May 12th at 2:00 p.m. with a Celebration of Life beginning at 3:00 p.m. Loudoun Funeral Chapel 158 Catoctin Circle, S.E., Leesburg, VA 20175 Matthew Sieh, 37, died on Wednesday, May 4, 2022, at his home in Sterling, Virginia. Survived by parents Stephen and Linda Sieh, brother Alexander Sieh, grandfather Frank Deviney, Sr., uncles Frank Deviney, Jr. (Karen), Dennis Sieh (Debbie), aunts Mary Moore (John), M. Graciela Ostos and Diana Potter (Lindsay), cousins Brian (Melissa) Deviney, Jonathan (Jennifer) and Richard (Crissy) Moore, Timothy Frobisher, Sara (Brian) Ward, Cory (Scott) Johnson, and Joseph (Heather), Kathryn, A. Marina and Lucas Sieh. At the time of his death Matthew and his wife, Caitlin Sieh, were separated. Predeceased by grandparents Elton and Virginia Sieh, Agnes Juanita Mull Deviney, aunt Barbara (Johnny) Frobisher and uncle Robert Sieh. A celebration of life will be held after Matthew’s mom successfully completes breast cancer treatments. The family suggests donations in his name be made to support Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy’s JK Black Oak Wildlife Sanctuary, which contains wooded wetlands similar to those that Matt loved exploring. https://loudounwildlife.org/ donate/black-oak-donation/ To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Matthew Sieh please visit our Sympathy Store. William Armando Fortiz, 39 died on Friday, April 29, 2022, at his home in Leesburg, Virginia. William is survived by his girlfriend of eighteen years, Mellisa Scott, brothers, Hugo Fortiz, Rafael Fortiz, Juan Carlos Fortiz and Brian Fortiz, sister, Lisa Fotiz. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.loudounfuneralchapel.com Marilyn A. Wears, 86, of Leesburg, VA (formerly of McKees Rocks, PA) died peacefully on April 5, 2022 at Heritage Hall Nursing & Rehabilitation. She is survived by two sons, William F. Wears, (Mary Helen) , Thomas J. Wears(Nicole) and three surviving sisters, Eileen McMahon(late Joseph McMahon), Shirley Panno (late Joseph Panno) and Catherine Smith(Richard). She had three grandchildren, Matthew Moxley(Gina), Jessica Vera(Andrew) and Julia Wears and five great grandchildren, Cameron, Hunter, Charlotte, Maddox Moxley and Sofia Vera. She is
also survived by many nieces and nephews and cousins. The final committal service will take place on May 23, 2022 @National Cemetery of the Alleghenies, Bridgeville, PA @11:00 a.m. and officiated by Father Regis Ryan. Followed by a Celebration of Life luncheon at Rockefellers Restaurant, Kennedy Twp. PA. Ernestine K. Ridgway, of Leesburg, VA, died at Heritage Hall Nursing Home in Leesburg on May 2, 2022. She is survived by her two children - daughter Patricia Groff and son James W. Ridgway, two grandchildren Shannon Groff (Todd) and Alexander Groff (Meredith), and four great grandchildren. She was predeceased by her parents and three brothers, Peter, Joseph and Paul. A mass will be held on May 13, 2022 at 11AM at Saint John the Apostle, little chapel, located on 231 N. King St., NW, Leesburg, VA (at the corner of North King Street and Union Street). Interment will take place immediately following the Mass at St. John Catholic Cemetery. John David Bates died on Sunday, May 8, 2022 in Leesburg, VA. He is survived by his fiance Marie Amdur, brother Eddie Bates and half sister Tammy Cooper and two half brothers Buck Bates, Bobby Bates and 3 step children. John is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family. He is preceded in death by his parents Edward and Peggy Bates and three brothers. A viewing will be held on Monday, May 16, 2022 from 6-8pm at Loudoun Funeral Chapel 158 Catoctin Circle, SE, Leesburg, VA. A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, May 17, 2022 at 11am at Furnace Mountain Cemetery. Meraf Hagos Mitchell, 82 of Aldie, Virginia passed on Wednesday, April 27, 2022, peacefully at her home in Aldie, Virginia. Meraf is survived by her two sisters Desta Hagos and Awotash Hagos her son, Aristo Mitchell, daughter, Sheba Matheu and 6 grandkids, Isaac Roll, Oliver Mitchell, Nelson Mitchell, Nelli Mitchell, Oscar Mitchell, and Amina Matheu and many cousins, nieces and nephews from VA to Ethiopia. A Celebration of life was held at her family home in Aldie VA on Thursday May 5th.
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Legal Notices TOWN OF LEESBURG NOTICE OF PLANNING COMMISSION PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER AMENDMENTS TO ZONING ORDINANCE ARTICLE 7 OVERLAY AND SPECIAL PURPOSE DISTRICTS AND ARTICLE 14 CREEK VALLEY BUFFER RELATING TO CAPITAL IMPOVEMENT PROJECTS
Pursuant to Sections 15.2-1427, 15.2-2204, 15.2-2205 and 15.2-2285 of the Code of Virginia, 1950, as amended, the LEESBURG PLANNING COMMISSION will hold a public hearing on THURSDAY, MAY 19, 2022 at 7:00 p.m. in the Town Council Chambers, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia, 20176 to consider Zoning Ordinance Amendment TLOA-2022-0001 revising the following Section of the Zoning Ordinance: 1. Sec. 7.11.2 Definitions establishing a definition of Capital Improvement Project 2. Sec.7.11.7 Prohibited Activities to make the Section more legible and understandable for use 3. Sec. 7.11.8.B Permitted Uses in Major Floodplain establishing Capital Improvement Project as a permitted use by right in major floodplains within the Floodplain Overlay District 4. Sec. 7.11.8.C Permitted Uses in Minor Floodplain establishing Capital Improvement Project as a permitted use by right in minor floodplains within the Floodplain Overlay District 5. Sec. 14.2.2.C Capital Improvement Setback Reduction establishing the ability to reduce the minimum setback for Capital Improvement Projects within the Creek Valley Buffer Overlay District 6. Sec. 14.6 Permitted Uses clarifying the correct ordinance being referred to in the text of the section Copies and additional information regarding this proposed Zoning Ordinance amendment is available at the Department of Planning and Zoning located on the second floor of the Leesburg Town Hall, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia 20176 during normal business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.), or by calling 703-737-7009 and asking for Christopher Murphy, Senior Planning Project Manager. This zoning ordinance amendment application is identified as case number TLOA2022-0003. At this hearing all persons desiring to express their views concerning these matters will be heard. Persons requiring special accommodations should contact the Clerk of the Commission at (703) 7712434 three days in advance of the meeting. For TTY/TDD service, use the Virginia Relay Center by dialing 711. 5/5 & 5/12/22
TOWN OF LEESBURG NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING LEESBURG TOWN CODE AMENDMENT: CHAPTER 22 (NUISANCES); SECTION 22-12 (CLUTTER PROHIBITED) In accordance with Code of Virginia of 1950, as amended, Sections 15.2-901 and 15.2-1427, the Leesburg Town Council will hold a public hearing on:
Tuesday, May 24, 2022, at 7:00 P.M. in the Council Chambers of Town Hall, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, VA at which time the public shall have the right to present oral and written testimony on the proposed amendment to Town Code Chapter 22 (Nuisances) by adding a new section (22-12). The new section will make it unlawful for property owners to permit clutter on their property in accordance with VA Code § 15.2-901. A copy of the proposed ordinance is available from the Town Clerk, located in Town Hall, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia, during normal business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.); or by calling Eileen Boeing, Town Clerk, at 703-771-2733.
To place an obituary, contact Susan Styer: 703-770-9723 sstyer@loudounnow.com
At this hearing, all persons desiring to express their views concerning these matters will be heard. Persons requiring special accommodations should contact the Clerk of Council at 703-771-2733, three days in advance of the meeting. For TTY/TDD service, use the Virginia Relay Center by dialing 711. 5/12 & 5/19/22
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Legal Notices PUBLIC HEARING The LOUDOUN COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION will hold a public hearing in the Board of Supervisors’ Meeting Room on the first floor of the County Government Center, 1 Harrison Street, S.E., Leesburg, Virginia, on Thursday, May 26, 2022, at 6:00 p.m. to consider the following: SPEX-2021-0039 ASHBURN CORPORATE CENTER HOTELS (Special Exception)
EH19, LLC of Arlington, Virginia has submitted an application for a Special Exception to modify the Conditions of Approval and Special Exception Plat associated with SPEX-1998-0016 (Ashburn Corporate Center L 4 and 5), in order to increase the maximum number of hotel rooms from 240 to 244 within the PD-IP (Planned Development – Industrial Park) zoning district. This application is subject to the 1972 Zoning Ordinance, and the proposed use is listed as a Special Exception use under Sections 722.3.2.1 and 607.2.4. The subject property is located within the Route 28 Taxing District, Corridor Business (CB) Optional Overlay, and located within the AI (Airport Impact) Overlay District, between the Ldn 60-65 aircraft noise contours. The subject property is approximately 7.16 acres in size and is located on the north side of Waxpool Road (Route 625), west of Loudoun County Parkway (Route 607) and East of Smith Switch Road (Route 1950), at 44610 Waxpool Drive, Ashburn, Virginia, in the Broad Run Election District. The subject property is more particularly described as PIN: 061-37-8938. The area is governed by the polices of the Loudoun County 2019 General Plan (Suburban Policy Area (Suburban Employment Place Type)), which supports a broad array of Employment uses up to a 1.0 Floor Area Ratio (FAR).
ZRTD-2021-0008 & SPEX-2021-0040 1501 MORAN ROAD
(Zoning Conversion in the Route 28 Taxing District & Special Exception) 1501 Moran Road Development LLC of Washington, District of Columbia has submitted applications for the following: 1) to rezone 7.65 acres from the PD-IP (Planned Development – Industrial Park) zoning district under the 1993 Zoning Ordinance to the PD-IP zoning district under the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance, in order to permit all principal and accessory uses permitted in the PD-IP zoning district under the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance, at a maximum Floor Area Ratio (FAR) of 0.60 (up to 1.0 by Special Exception); and 2) a Special Exception to permit an increase in the maximum FAR from 0.60 to 1.0 for data center and associated uses. The subject property is located within the Route 28 Taxing District, and the AI (Airport Impact) Overlay District outside of but within one (1) mile of the Ldn 60 aircraft noise contours. The subject property is approximately 7.65 acres in size and is located on the south side of the intersection of Moran Road (Route 634) and Broderick Drive (Route 1070) and on the east side of the intersection of Moran Road (Route 634) and Acacia Lane (Route 865) in the Broad Run Election District. The Subject Property is more particularly described as PIN: 045-46-5016. The area is governed by the policies of the 2019 General Plan (Suburban Policy Area (Suburban Employment Place Type) which designate this area for Office, Production, Flex Space, and Warehousing uses at up to 1.0 Floor Area Ratio.
SPEX-2021-0052 & CMPT-2021-0013 MDS EQUINE CENTER (Special Exception & Commission Permit)
Virginia Tech Foundation, Inc. of Blacksburg, Virginia, has submitted applications for the following: 1) a Special Exception for termination of non-conforming status of the public utilities provided by the Town of Leesburg serving the animal hospital use in the AR-1 (Agriculture Rural–1) zoning district; and 2) Commission approval to permit the extension of Town of Leesburg municipal sewer and water lines to serve an expansion of the animal hospital. These applications are subject to the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance, and a non-conforming use or structure may be deemed to be in conformity with the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance and allowed to continue and to expand as a lawfully existing use or structure through the issuance of Special Exception approval in accordance with Section 1-405. The subject property is located within the LOD (Limestone Overlay District) and is also located partially within the FOD (Floodplain Overlay District). The subject property is approximately 197.99 acres in size and is located on the east side of the intersection of Old Waterford Road, NW and Fairview Street, NW, at 17690 Old Waterford Road, Leesburg, Virginia, in the Catoctin Election District. The property is more particularly described as PIN: 229-27-9023. The area is governed by the policies of the Loudoun County 2019 General Plan (Rural Policy Area (Rural North Place Type)), which designate this area for Agricultural and Agricultural Supportive uses with limited Residential, Rural Business, and Tourism uses at a recommended density up to one dwelling units per 20 acres.
ZMAP-2021-0005, ZCPA-2021-0004, SPEX-2022-0022 ZMOD-2021-0015 & ZMOD-2021-0046 BELMONT PARK
DEF
ERR
(Zoning Map Amendment, Zoning Concept Plan Amendment) (Special Exception & Zoning Modifications)
ED
Belmont Gym Building, LLC, of McLean, Virginia, has submitted applications for the following: 1) to rezone approximately 12.16 acres from the PD-OP (Planned Development – Office Park) zoning district under the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance to the R-16 ADU (Townhouse/Multifamily Residential-16, ADU Development Regulations) zoning district under the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance in order to develop 163 residential units, consisting of a maximum 106 multifamily units and a maximum of 57 single family attached units, at a density of approximately 13.4 dwelling units per acre; and 2) to amend the proffers approved with ZMAP-1996-0003, and ZCPA-1996-0002, Belmont, in order to revise the Deed
DE
of Viewshed Easement for Belmont Manor. The applicant is also requesting a Special Exception to permit the modification of the minimum yard requirements for ADU (Affordable Dwelling Units) developments in the R-16 ADU zoning district. This application is subject to the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance and the proposed modification of the minimum yard requirements for ADU developments in the R-16 ADU zoning district is listed as Special Exception under Section 7-903(C)(1)(a). The applicant also requests the following Zoning Ordinance modification(s):
FE
ZONING ORDINANCE SECTION
PROPOSED MODIFICATION
RR
§3-607(B) (2) R-16 Townhouse/Multifamily Residential, Building Requirements, Building Height, Multifamily.
Increase maximum permitted building height for multifamily buildings from 45 feet to 55 feet without additional setbacks.
§5-1403(B) Landscaping, Buffer Yards, Screening, and Landscape Plans, Road Corridor Buffers and Setbacks, Road Corridor Buffers and Setbacks Matrix, Table Section 5-1403 (B).
Reduce the required building setback from 200 feet to 80 feet and the parking setback from 125 feet to 50 feet along Harry Byrd Highway and Reduce the required building setback from 75 feet to 33 feet and the parking setback from 35 feet to 13 along Russell Branch Parkway.
ED
The subject property is approximately 12.16 acres in size and is located on the east side of Russell Branch Parkway (Route 1061), west of Claiborne Parkway (Route 901) and south of Harry Byrd Highway (Route 7) in the Ashburn Election District. The subject property is more particularly described as PIN: 083-469403. The area is governed by the policies of the Loudoun County 2019 General Plan (Suburban Policy Area (Suburban Mixed Use Place Type)) which designate this area for a mix of Residential, Commercial, Entertainment, Cultural and Recreational uses at recommended Floor Area Ratio (FAR) of 1.0.
ZMAP-2021-0006, SPEX-2021-0022, ZMOD-2021-0020 ZMOD-2021-0023 & ZMOD-2021-0024 HYDE PARK (Zoning Map Amendment, Special Exception & Zoning Modifications)
38 BL 154 Owner, LLC of Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, has submitted applications for the following: 1) To rezone approximately 57.61 acres from the PD-OP (Planned Development – Office Park) zoning district and PD-H3 (Planned Development – Housing 3) administered as the PD-OP zoning district to the R-16 ADU (Townhouse/Multi-family, ADU Development Regulations) zoning district under the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance in order to develop up to 795 residential units, consisting of a maximum of 438 single-family attached residential units and a maximum of 357 multifamily residential units, at a density approximately 13.8 dwelling units per acre; and 2) A Special Exception to permit the modification of the minimum yard requirements for ADU developments in the R-16 ADU zoning district. These applications are subject to the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance, and the proposed modification of the minimum yard requirements for ADU developments in the R-16 ADU zoning district is listed as a Special Exception under Section 7-903(C)(3). The applicant also requests the following Zoning Ordinance Modification(s): ZONING ORDINANCE SECTION
PROPOSED MODIFICATION
§3-602, R-16 Townhouse/Multifamily Residential, Size and Location.
Increase the maximum district size from 25 acres to 58 acres.
§3-607(B)(2), R-16 Townhouse/Multifamily Residential, Building Requirements, Multifamily, Building Height.
Increase the permitted maximum building height from 45 feet to 60 feet without providing an additional setback from streets or from lot lines in addition to each of the required minimum yard dimensions.
§5-1403(B), Landscaping, Buffer Yards, Screening, and Landscape Plans, Road Corridor Buffer Setbacks, Road Corridor Buffer and Setbacks Matrix, Table 5-1403(B).
Reduce the required building setback from 100 feet to 75 feet along Belmont Ridge Road. and Reduce the required building setback from 75 feet to 52 feet along Broadlands Boulevard, and from 75 feet to 45 feet along a proposed Broadlands Boulevard right turn lane for a proposed site entrance north of Glebe View Drive (Route 2348)
The subject property is approximately 57.61 acres in size and is located south of the Dulles Greenway (Route 267) in the northeast corner of the intersection of Belmont Ridge Road (Route 659) and Broadlands Boulevard (Route 640) in the Ashburn Election District. The subject property is more particularly
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Legal Notices described as PIN: 154-19-9491. The area is governed by the policies of the Loudoun County 2019 General Plan (Suburban Policy Area (Suburban Mixed Use Place Type), which designate this area for a mix of Residential, Commercial, Entertainment, Cultural, and Recreational uses as a recommended Floor Area Ratio (FAR) up to 1.0. ZCPA-2021-0002 & ZMOD-2021-0032 ONE LOUDOUN (Zoning Concept Plan Amendment & Zoning Ordinance Modification) KRG Ashburn Loudoun Uptown, LLC of Indianapolis, IN, has submitted an application to amend the concept development plan and amend the proffers approved with ZMAP 2005-0008, One Loudoun; ZMAP 2012-0016, One Loudoun; ZMAP 2013-0009, One Loudoun; ZCPA 2008-0003, One Loudoun; ZCPA 2012-0012, One Loudoun; ZCPA 2013-0006, One Loudoun, ZMAP 2015-0007, One Loudoun; ZCPA-2015-0013, One Loudoun; ZMAP-2018-0005, ZMAP-2018-0006, and ZCPA-2018-0005, One Loudoun in order to: a) to increase the residential density by 1,745 multifamily units for a total residential density in the PD-TC (Planned Development – Town Center) zoning district of a 0.68 Floor Area Ratio (FAR) and to decrease the amount of nonresidential density from 3,598,400 to 2,813,850 square feet for a total non-residential density in the PD-TC zoning district of a 0.52 FAR. The application is subject to the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance. The Applicant also requests the following Zoning Ordinance modification(s): ZONING ORDINANCE SECTION
PROPOSED MODIFICATION
§4-808(A)(4), PD-TC Planned Development
Eliminate the civic space requirement.
– Town Center, Land Use Arrangement, Generally. §4-806(B)(2)(a), PD-TC Planned Development – Town Center, Building Requirements,
Increase the maximum building height to 150 feet
Building Height, Town Center Fringe, Maximum Height. §4-808(A)(3), PD-TC Planned Development – Town Center, Land Use Arrangement, Generally.
Increase the maximum allowable percentage of gross floor area for residential use from 50 percent to 60 percent.
The subject property is located within the AI (Airport Impact) Overlay District, between the Ldn 60-65, outside of but within one (1) mile of the Ldn 60, aircraft noise contours, and located partially within the FOD (Floodplain Overlay District). The subject property is located in the southwest quadrant of the Harry Byrd Highway (Route 7) and Loudoun County Parkway (Route 607) interchange, and north of Russell Branch Parkway (Route 1061), in the Broad Run Election District. The subject property is more particularly described as follows: PIN
PROPERTY ADDRESS
057-38-6693
N/A
057-29-5356
N/A
057-29-2150
N/A
057-29-6579
N/A
057-19-4669
N/A
057-20-1127
N/A
057-19-7846
N/A
057-19-7846-001
44669 ENDICOTT DR, ASHBURN, VA
057-19-7846-002
44661 ENDICOTT DR, ASHBURN, VA
057-19-7846-003
44675 ENDICOTT DR, ASHBURN, VA
057-19-7846-004
44675 ENDICOTT DR, ASHBURN, VA
057-10-3053
N/A
057-10-3053-001
20320 EXCHANGE ST, ASHBURN VA
057-10-3053-002
44819 ATWATER DR, ASHBURN, VA
057-10-3053-003
44719 ENDICOTT DR, ASHBURN, VA
057-10-3053-004
44719 ENDICOTT DR, ASHBURN, VA
057-19-7783
N/A
057-19-8211
20522 EASTHAMPTON PLZ, ASHBURN, VA
057-19-8588
N/A
057-19-6686
20575 EASTHAMPTON PLZ, ASHBURN, VA
058-49-7270
20613 EASTHAMPTON PLZ, ASHBURN, VA
PIN
PROPERTY ADDRESS
058-49-8866
20405 EXCHANGE ST, ASHBURN, VA
058-49-9345
20427 EXCHANGE ST, ASHBURN, VA
058-49-8130
44679 PROVINCETOWN DR, ASHBURN, VA
058-49-9721
20473 EXCHANGE ST, ASHBURN, VA
058-40-3555
44742 BRIMFIELD DR, ASHBURN, VA
058-40-2526
44755 BRIMFIELD DR, ASHBURN, VA
058-40-1649
44726 BRIMFIELD DR, ASHBURN, VA
058-40-0867
20416 EXCHANGE ST, ASHBURN, VA
057-10-0483
44703 THORNDIKE ST, ASHBURN, VA
057-10-1684
44715 THORNDIKE ST, ASHBURN, VA
057-10-3486
44735 THORNDIKE ST, ASHBURN, VA
057-10-4978
44786 BRIMFIELD DR, ASHBURN, VA
057-10-4315
N/A
057-10-2808
20350 MINOT DR, ASHBURN, VA
057-10-1401
44720 THORNDIKE ST, ASHBURN, VA
057-10-0299
20376 EXCHANGE ST, ASHBURN, VA
057-10-0115
20370 EXCHANGE ST, ASHBURN, VA
057-10-2420
N/A
057-10-5711 (portion of)
N/A
057-19-8938
20338 EXCHANGE ST, ASHBURN, VA
The area is governed by the policies of the Loudoun County 2019 General Plan (Suburban Policy Area (Suburban Mixed Use Place Type)) which designate this area for Residential, Nonresidential, and Public/ Civic uses at an FAR of up to 1.0 FAR.
SPEX-2021-0041 POLAND ROAD DATA CENTER YARD EXPANSION (Special Exception)
Amazon Data Services, Inc, of Seattle, Washington, has submitted an application for a Special Exception to permit a Data Center use in the CLI (Commercial Light Industry) zoning district. This application is subject to the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance, and the proposed use is listed as a Special Exception use under Section 3-904(CC). The subject properties are located within the Quarry Notification (QN) Overlay District – Chantilly Crush Stone Note Area, partially within the Airport Impact (AI) Overlay District between the Ldn 60-65 and partially within the Ldn 65 or higher of the aircraft noise contours. The subject properties are approximately 39.11 and 9.36 acres in size and are located on the south side of John Mosby Highway (Route 50), east of Poland Road (Route 742) and north and west of Tall Cedars Parkway (Route 2200), at 25316 Prediction Lane, Chantilly, VA and 43743 John Mosby Highway, Chantilly, VA in the Dulles Election District. The subject properties are more particularly described as PINS: 097-35-4183 and 097-36-1753. The area is governed by the policies of the Revised General Plan (Suburban Policy Area (Suburban Commercial Place Type)), which designate this area for a broad array of Employment uses within an environment that provides gathering spaces and opportunities for synergies among businesses. Unless otherwise noted above, full and complete copies of the above-referenced amendments, applications, ordinances and/or plans, and related documents may be examined in the Loudoun County Department of Building and Development, County Government Center, 1 Harrison Street, S.E., 2nd Floor, Leesburg, Virginia, from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday or call 703-7770220, or electronically at www.loudoun.gov/lola. This link also provides an additional opportunity for public input on active applications. Additionally, documents may be viewed and downloaded electronically the week before the hearing at www.loudoun.gov/pc. For further information, contact the Department of Planning and Zoning at 703-777-0246. Citizens are encouraged to call in advance to sign up to speak at the public hearing. If you wish to sign up in advance of the hearing, please call the Department of Planning and Zoning at 703-7770246 prior to 12:00 PM on the day of the public hearing. Speakers may also sign up at the hearing. Written comments are welcomed at any time and may be sent to the Loudoun County Planning Commission, 1 Harrison Street, S.E., 3rd Floor, MSC #62, Leesburg, Virginia 20175, or by e-mail to loudounpc@loudoun.gov. If written comments are presented at the hearing, please provide ten (10) copies for distribution to the Commission and the Clerk’s records. All members of the public will be heard as to their views pertinent to these matters. Any individual representing and/or proposing to be the sole speaker on behalf of a citizen’s organization or civic association is encouraged to
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BURN, VA
BURN, VA
SHBURN, VA
BURN, VA
BURN, VA
BURN, VA
BURN, VA
BURN, VA
MAY 12, 2022
Legal Notices contact the Department of Planning and Zoning prior to the date of the public hearing if special arrangements for additional speaking time and/or audio-visual equipment will be requested. Such an organization representative will be allotted 6 minutes to speak, and the Chairman may grant additional time if the request is made prior to the date of the hearing and the need for additional time is reasonably justified. Citizens are encouraged to call the Department of Planning and Zoning on the day of the public hearing to confirm that an item is on the agenda, or, the most current agenda may be viewed on the Planning Commission’s website at www.loudoun.gov/pc. In the event that the second Thursday is a holiday or the meeting may not be held due to inclement weather or other conditions that make it hazardous for members to attend, the meeting will be moved to the third Tuesday of the month. In the event that Tuesday is a holiday or the Tuesday meeting may not be held due to inclement weather or other conditions that make it hazardous for members to attend, the meeting will be held on the following Thursday. The meeting will be held at a place determined by the
Chairman. Hearing assistance is available for meetings in the Board of Supervisors’ Meeting Room. FM Assistive Listening System is available at the meetings at all other locations. If you require any type of reasonable accommodation as a result of a physical, sensory or mental disability to participate in this meeting, contact the Department of Planning and Zoning at 703-777-0246. Please provide three days’ notice. BY ORDER OF:
ERIC COMBS, CHAIRMAN LOUDOUN COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION 5/5, 5/12 & 5/19/22
BURN, VA
ASHBURN, VA
Public Notice – Environmental Permit
BURN, VA
BURN, VA
ABC LICENSE
RN, VA
BURN, VA
BURN, VA
BURN, VA
BURN, VA
PUBLIC NOTICE REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP) The Town of Leesburg will accept proposals electronically via the Commonwealth’s e-procurement website (www.eva.virginia. gov), until 3:00 p.m. on June 9, 2022 for the following:
Submak LLC, trading as Cassia Asian Bistro, 20 Town Sq Unit 160, Lovettsville, Virginia 20180 The above establishment is applying to the VIRGINIA AlCOHOLIC BEVERAGE CONTROL (ABC) AUTHORITY for a Wine and Beer On and Off Premise + Mixed Beverage license to sell or manufacture alcoholic beverages. Hyung Wook Jang, Owner Note: Objections to the issuance of this license must be submitted to ABC no later than 30 days from the publishing date of the first of two required newspaper legal notices. Objections should be registered at www.abc.virginia.gov or 800-552-3200. 5/5 & 5/12/22
RFP No. 500640-FY22-34 Process Control System, Equipment & Instrumentation, Maintenance and Repair Services The Town of Leesburg is soliciting sealed proposals from qualified firms to furnish equipment diagnostics, maintenance, programming, replacement and calibration services to the Town’s water and wastewater utility plant’s process control systems and associated equipment. A non-mandatory preproposal meeting will be held on Thursday, May 19, 2022 at 9:00 A.M. at the Town’s Utilities Maintenance Building located at 1385 Russell Branch Parkway, Leesburg, VA 20175. It is strongly recommended that all offerors attend this meeting to gain a thorough understanding of the project. For additional information, visit: http://www.leesburgva.gov/bidboard 5/12/22
ABC LICENSE
Cross Ties Farm LLC, trading as Cross Ties Farm, 39573 John Mosby Hwy, Aldie, Virginia 20105 The above establishment is applying to the VIRGINIA AlCOHOLIC BEVERAGE CONTROL (ABC) AUTHORITY for a Class A Farm Winery license to sell or manufacture alcoholic beverages. David and Laura Senty Note: Objections to the issuance of this license must be submitted to ABC no later than 30 days from the publishing date of the first of two required newspaper legal notices. Objections should be registered at www.abc.virginia.gov or 800-552-3200. 5/5 & 5/12/22
PURPOSE OF NOTICE: To seek public comment on a draft permit from the Department of Environmental Quality that will allow the release of treated wastewater into a water body in Loudoun County, Virginia. PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD: May 13, 2022 to June 13, 2022 PERMIT NAME: Virginia Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Permit – Wastewater issued by DEQ, under the authority of the State Water Control Board. APPLICANT NAME, ADDRESS AND PERMIT NUMBER: Town of Hillsboro; 37098 Charles Town Pike, Hillsboro, VA 20132; VA0093114 FACILITY NAME AND LOCATION: Town of Hillsboro Wastewater Treatment Package Plant; 37091 Charles Town Pike, Hillsboro, VA 20132 PROJECT DESCRIPTION: Town of Hillsboro has applied for a new permit for the public Town of Hillsboro Wastewater Treatment Package Plant. The applicant proposes to release treated sewage wastewaters from residential areas at a rate of 0.00764 million gallons per day into a water body. Sludge from the treatment process will be transported to Broad Run Water Reclamation Facility (VA0091383) for further treatment and final disposal. The facility proposes to release the treated sewage in the North Fork Catoctin Creek in Loudoun County in the Potomac River watershed. A watershed is the land area drained by a river and its incoming streams. The permit will limit the following pollutants to amounts that protect water quality: physical and chemical properties, nutrients, organic matter, solids and bacteria. This facility is subject to the requirements of 9VAC25-820 and has registered for coverage under the General VPDES Watershed Permit Regulation for Total Nitrogen and Total Phosphorus Discharges and Nutrient Trading in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed in Virginia (Nutrient GP). This facility has elected to offset its future nutrient loads by acquiring waste load allocations from the Town of Leesburg Water Pollution Control Division (VA0092282). The delivered load limits(s) of the Town of Leesburg Water Pollution Control Division have been reduced in the General VPDES Watershed Permit registration list to reflect this acquisition. HOW TO COMMENT AND/OR REQUEST A PUBLIC HEARING: DEQ accepts comments and requests for public hearing on the draft permit by hand-delivery, email, fax or postal mail. All comments and requests must be in writing and be received by DEQ during the comment period. DEQ must receive hand-delivery and postal mail by close of business and email and fax comments by 11:59 p.m. on the last day of the comment period. Submittals must include the names, mailing addresses and telephone numbers of the commenter/requester and of all persons represented by the commenter/requester. A request for public hearing must also include: 1) The reason why a public hearing is requested. 2) A brief, informal statement regarding the nature and extent of the interest of the requester or of those represented by the requester, including how and to what extent such interest would be directly and adversely affected by the permit. 3) Specific references, where possible, to terms and conditions of the permit with suggested revisions. A public hearing may be held, including another comment period, if public response is significant, based on individual requests for a public hearing, and there are substantial, disputed issues relevant to the permit. CONTACT FOR PUBLIC COMMENTS, DOCUMENT REQUESTS AND ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Douglas Frasier; DEQ Northern Regional Office, 13901 Crown Court, Woodbridge, VA 22193; Phone: 571-866-6522; Email: Douglas.Frasier@deq.virginia.gov; Fax: 804-698-4178. The public may review the draft permit and application at the DEQ office named above by appointment or may request copies of the documents from the contact person listed above. 5/12 & 5/19/22
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Legal Notices TOWN OF LEESBURG NOTICE OF PLANNING COMMISISON PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER AMENDMENTS TO ZONING ORDINANCE ARTICLE 15 SIGN REGULATIONS FOR THE PURPOSE OF REVISING AWNING, CURBSIDE AND SECONDARY WALL SIGNS
Pursuant to Sections 15.2-1427, 15.2-2204, 15.2-2205 and 15.2-2285 of the Code of Virginia, 1950, as amended, the LEESBURG PLANNING COMMISSION will hold a public hearing on THURSDAY, MAY 19, 2022 at 7:00 p.m. in the Town Council Chambers, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia, 20176 to consider Zoning Ordinance Amendment TLOA-2022-0011 to revise the following article of the Zoning Ordinance: Article 15 Sign Regulations various sections as necessary to permit signs on the slopes of awnings subject to limitations, to define and exempt curbside signs subject to limitations, and to permit secondary wall signs subject to limitations. Copies and additional information regarding these proposed Zoning Ordinance amendments are available at the Department of Planning and Zoning located on the second floor of the Leesburg Town Hall, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia 20176 during normal business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.), or by calling 703-737-7009 and asking for Brian Boucher, Deputy Director. Mr. Boucher can also be reached by email at bboucher@leesburgva.gov. This Zoning Ordinance amendment application is identified as case number TLOA-2022-0011. At this hearing all persons desiring to express their views concerning these matters will be heard. Persons requiring special accommodations should contact the Clerk of the Commission at (703) 771-2434 three days in advance of the meeting. For TTY/TDD service, use the Virginia Relay Center by dialing 711. 5/5 & 5/12/22
NOTICE OF SEIZURE AND INTENT TO FORFEIT Notice is hereby given that the United States Department of the Interior is hereby commencing a forfeiture proceeding against the following items of wildlife or wildlife products, which were seized in the Eastern District area of Virginia on the dates indicated because they were involved in one or more violations of any of the following laws: Endangered Species Act, Title 16 U.S.C. Sec. 1538, the Marine Mammal Protection Act, 11 U.S.C. Sec. 1371-1372, the Lacey Act, 16 U.S.C. Sec. 3372, Wild Bird Conservation Act, 16 U.S.C. Sec. 4901-4916, or the African Elephant Conservation Act, 16 U.S.C. Sec. 4221-4245. These items are subject to forfeiture to the United States under Title 16, U.S.C. Sec. 1540(e), 16 U.S.C. Sec. 1377, or 16 U.S.C. Sec. 3374 and Title 50 Code of Federal Regulations, Section 12.23. Any person with an ownership or financial interest in said items who desires to claim them must file a claim with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Office of Law Enforcement, 23703C Air Freight Lane, Suite 200, Dulles, VA 20166; telephone (703) 661-8560. Such claim must be received by the above office by 06/07/2022. The claim will be transmitted to the U.S. Attorney for institution of a forfeiture action in U.S. District Court. If a proper claim is not received by the above office by such date, the items will be declared forfeited to the United States and disposed of according to law. Any person who has an interest in the items may also file with the above office a petition for remission of forfeiture in accordance with Title 50, Code of Federal Regulations, Section 12.24, which petition must be received in such office before disposition of the items. Storage costs may also be assessed. INV # SEIZURE DATE VALUE ITEMS SEIZED 2022501391
03/31/2022
5/5, 5/12 & 5/19/22
$16,417
Two (2) Little owl (Athene noctua) dead animals; One (1) Salmon-crested cockatoo (Cacatua moluccensis) dead animal; One (1) White rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum) dead animal; One (1) American crocodile (Crocodylus acutus) skin piece; One (1) Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) foot; Two (2) gavial (Gavialis gangeticus) skulls; One (1) tiger (Panthera tigris) skull; One (1) Helmeted hornbill (Rhinoplax vigil) skull; One (1) Addax (Addax nasomaculatus) horn; One (1) Mexican pronghorn (Antilocapra americana) dead animal; Two (2) common hippopotamus (Hippopotamus amphibius) ivory carvings; One (1) Eurasian spoonbill (Platalea leucorodia) dead animal; Two (2) hawks, harriers (Accipitridae) claws; One (1) Markhor (Capra falconeri) trophy; Two (2) gavial (Gavialis gangeticus) trophies; One (1) urial (Ovis aries) trophy
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The LOUDOUN COUNTY BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS will hold a public hearing in the DULLES ROOM, County Government Center, 1 Harrison Street, S.E., Leesburg, Virginia, on Thursday, May 26, 2022, at 6:00 p.m. to consider the following:
VARI-2022-0001 Sarkar - Addition Suman and Ara Sarkar of Ashburn, Virginia, have submitted an application for a variance to permit a deviation from the following provision of the Revised 1993 Loudoun County Zoning Ordinance in order to permit the construction of an addition to an existing single-family detached dwelling on the subject property located approximately 18.8 feet from the rear property line: Section 7-803(C)(1)(c) – Lot and Building Requirements, Yards, Rear (Affordable Dwelling Unit Development Regulations), which requires a twenty-five (25) foot rear yard. The subject property is zoned PD-H4 administered as R-8 (Single Family Residential) under the Revised 1993 Loudoun County Zoning Ordinance, and is also located within the AI (Airport Impact) Overlay District outside of but within (1) mile of the LDN 60 aircraft noise contours. The subject property is approximately 0.16 acre in size and is located on the north side of Southview Manor Drive, approximately 0.26 mile north of the intersection of Southview Manor Drive (Route 3243) and Creighton Road (Route 774), and approximately 0.02 mile west of the intersection of Southview Manor Drive and Ashley Heights Circle (Route 3244), at 42904 Southview Manor Drive, in the Blue Ridge Election District. The subject property is more particularly described as PIN: 160-30-2124. Full and complete copies of the above-referenced application(s) and related documents may be examined in the Loudoun County Department of Planning and Zoning, County Government Center, 1 Harrison Street, S.E., 3rd Floor, Leesburg, Virginia, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, or call (703) 777-0246. All members of the public will be heard as to their views pertinent to these matters. Citizens are encouraged to call in advance to sign up to speak at the public hearing. If you wish to sign up in advance of the hearing, please call the Department of Planning and Zoning at 703-777-0246 prior to 12:00 PM on the day of the public hearing. Speakers may also sign up at the hearing. Written comments are welcomed at any time and may be sent to the Loudoun County Board of Zoning Appeals, 1 Harrison Street, S.E., 3rd Floor, MSC #62, Leesburg, Virginia 20175, or by e-mail to stephanie.capps@loudoun. gov. If any member of the public requires a reasonable accommodation for any type of disability in order to participate in a public meeting, please contact the Office of the County Administrator at 703-7770200/TTY-711. At least one business day of advance notice is requested; some accommodations may require more than one day of notice. Nan M. Joseph Forbes, Chairman
5/12 & 5/19/22
TOWN OF LEESBURG NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
TO CONSIDER SUBDIVISION VARIATION REQUEST TLSV-2022-0001 DODONA MANOR WELCOME CENTER Pursuant to Sections 15.2-1427, 15.2-2204, 15.2-2205 and 15.2-2285 of the Code of Virginia, 1950, as amended, the Leesburg Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on Thursday, May 19, 2022 at 7:00 p.m., in the Town Council Chambers, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia, 20176 to consider a Planning Commission Subdivision Variation request, TLSV-2022-2001. This variation request is made on behalf of the applicant George C. Marshall International Center. The variation request is associated with the Site Plan application TLPF 2021-0012 Dodona Manor Welcome Center. The applicant is requesting the Planning Commission’s approval of a Subdivision Variation to the Town of Leesburg’s Subdivision and Land Development Regulations (the “SLDR”) Section 4.02(g) related to required road frontage improvements along Edwards Ferry Road NE in conjunction with the re-development of a parcel of land identified in the Loudoun County Land Records as PIN#s 23139-7319. The Subdivision Variation requests that the required frontage improvements be waived with the re-development of this property in order to preserve the historic setting and mature trees along the northern edge of the property. Copies and additional information regarding the Variation Request are available at the Department of Plan Review located on the second floor of Town Hall, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia, 20176 during normal business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.) or by contacting William R. Ackman, Jr., P.E., Director of Plan Review at 703-669-3161. At these hearings, all persons desiring to express their views concerning these matters will be heard. Persons requiring special accommodations at this Planning Commission meeting should contact the Clerk of Commission at (703) 771-2434 three days in advance of the meeting. For TTY/TDD service, use the Virginia Relay Center by dialing 711. 5/5 & 5/12/22
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MAY 12, 2022
Legal Notices TOWNTOWN OF HAMILTON HEARING OF HAMILTONPUBLIC PUBLIC HEARING PROPOSED WATER/SEWER RATES &&LAND DEVELOPMENT (no changes) PROPOSED WATER/SEWER RATES LAND DEVELOPMENT FEE'SFEE'S (no changes) The Town of Hamilton will a public hearing Monday May on 23,Monday 2022, at 7:00pm the Hamilton Town Office, 53 E Colonial Hwy, Hamilton, VA, for the purpose of receiving comment onof the proposed The Town of hold Hamilton will hold aonpublic hearing May 23,at2022, at 7:00pm at the Hamilton Town Office, 53 E Colonial Hwy, Hamilton, VA, for the purpose water/sewer rates and thecomment proposed on planning/zoning for the FY22 year. Virtual planning/zoning meeting availablefees for public at: https://www.hamiltonva.gov. The Code of Virginia of 1950,at:as amended, §§ receiving the proposed fees water/sewer ratesbudget and the proposed for theattendance FY22 budget year. Virtual meeting available for public attendance 15.2-2111, 15.2-2119, 15.2-2143 and 15.2-2122, authorize the adoption of water/sewer rates and fees. The Code of Virginia of 1950, as amended, §§ 15.2-2241 and 15.2-2286, authorize the adoption of planning & https://www.hamiltonva.gov. The Code of Virginia of 1950, as amended, §§ 15.2-2111, 15.2-2119, 15.2-2143 and 15.2-2122, authorize the adoption of water/sewer rates zoning fees.
and fees. The Code of Virginia of 1950, as amended, §§ 15.2-2241 and 15.2-2286, authorize the adoption of planning & zoning fees.
* * * *
PROPOSED WATER RATES - ALL PROPERTIES * IN TOWN PROPOSED RATES (no changes) ^ OUT OF TOWN PROPOSED RATES (no changes) Metered Rates Metered Rates $5.71 $12.75 $13.25 $19.00
per 1,000 gallons up to 8,000 gallons per 1,000 gallons between 8,001 and 12,000 gallons per 1,000 gallons over 12,000 gallons surcharge every 2 months
^ ^ ^ ^
$7.71 $17.21 $17.89 $19.00
per 1,000 gallons up to 8,000 gallons per 1,000 gallons between 8,001 and 12,000 gallons per 1,000 gallons over 12,000 gallons surcharge every 2 months
PROPOSED SEWER RATES - ALL PROPERTIES * IN TOWN PROPOSED RATES (no changes) ^ OUT OF TOWN PROPOSED RATES (no changes) Metered Rates Metered Rates per 1,000 gallons up to 8,000 gallons per 1,000 gallons between 8,001 and 12,000 gallons per 1,000 gallons over 12,000 gallons surcharge every 2 months
* * * *
$10.88 $26.25 $28.88 $13.00
* *
$76.50 every 2 months $13.00 surcharge every 2 months
^ ^ ^ ^
$14.68 $35.44 $38.98 $13.00
Flat Rates
per 1,000 gallons up to 8,000 gallons per 1,000 gallons between 8,001 and 12,000 gallons per 1,000 gallons over 12,000 gallons surcharge every 2 months
Flat Rates ^ ^
$103.28 every 2 months $13.00 surcharge every 2 months
PROPOSED LAND DEVELOPMENT FEES (no changes) $ 5,000 Annexation Application $ 350 Appeals (Board of Zoning Appeals) $ 250 Boundary Line Adjustment/Lot Consolidation $ 750 Commission Permit $ 2,500 Comprehensive Plan Amendment $ 250 Concept Plan Review $ 150 Demolition Permit $ 4,500 Development Plan Amendment Grading Plan (Erosion & Sediment Control) $ 500 Less than 100 acres $ 1,000 100-200 acres $ 1,500 200+ acres $ 100 Home Child Care Centers (12 childern or less) $ 25 Home Occupation Permit $ 50 Occupancy Permit $ 800 Parking Waiver (per space) $ 4,500 Proffered Condition Amendment Rezoning Application $ 2,500 0-5 acres $ 3,500 5-10 acres $ 6,500 10-25 acres $ 7,500 25-100 acres $ 8,500 100+ acres
Sign Permit $ 25 Temporary $ 100 Permanent $ 500 Preliminary Site Plan Application $ 1,200 Site Plan Application $ 750 Site Plan Revision $ 500 Special Exception Application $ 1,500 Special Use Permit Subdivision Application $ 300 Preliminary Plat - Minor (3 lots or less) $ 500 Preliminary Plat - Major (4 or more lots) $ 300 Preliminary Plat Revision $ 750 Subdivision - Construction Drawings - Public Improvements $ 300 Subdivision - Final Plat $ 500 Subdivision Major (3 lots or more) $ 500 Subdivision - Final Plat Review $ 300 Trailer Permit $ 350 Variance Application Zoning Permit - New Construction $ 150 Residential $ 200 Commerical or Industrial $ 75 Accessory Structures, decks, additiona, etc NC (permit required) Interior Alterations, roof replacement, siding, etc. for 05/12/2022 and 05/19/2022
NOTICE OF IMPOUNDMENT OF ABANDONED VEHICLES This notice is to inform the owner and any person having a security interest in their right to reclaim the motor vehicle herein described within 15 days after the date of storage charges resulting from placing the vehicle in custody, and the failure of the owner or persons having security interests to exercise their right to reclaim the vehicle within the time provided shall be deemed a waiver by the owner, and all persons having security interests of all right, title and interest in the vehicle, and consent to the sale of the abandoned motor vehicle at a public auction. This notice shall also advise the owner of record of his or her right to contest the determination by the Sheriff that the motor vehicle was “abandoned,” as provided in Chapter 630.08 of the Loudoun County Ordinance, by requesting a hearing before the County Administrator in writing. Such written request for a hearing must be made within 15 days of the notice. YR.
MAKE
MODEL
VIN
STORAGE
PHONE#
1996 2004
GMC HONDA
JIMMY ACCORD
1GKDT13W8T2554902 1HGCM66544A082310
AL’S TOWING BODY WORKS
703-435-8888 703-777-5727 5/12 & 5/19/22
5/12 & 5/19/22
PUBLIC NOTICE TOWN OF PURCELLVILLE Notice is hereby given that the Town of Purcellville is designing improvements to the existing trail through the Suzanne R. Kane Nature Preserve. Proposed improvements include paving the 2,100-footlong path to meet Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements, adding two ADA accessible parking spots and three regular parking spots, new wayfinding signage, and two rest areas along the path with benches and informational signage. Please send comments regarding the project to Amie Ware (571-308-5480, aware@purcellvilleva.gov) by May 31, 2022. An online survey is also available at https://purcellvilleva.gov/962/Suzanne-R-KaneNature-Preserve. 5/5 & 5/12/22
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MAY 12, 2022
PAGE 33
Legal Notices Town of Hamilton
Town ofofHamilton Proposed Budget Town Hamilton Fiscal Year 2023 Proposed Budget Proposed Budget Pursuant to VA Code Sec. 15.2-2506, notice is hereby given that the Hamilton Town Council Fiscal Year 2023 2023 Fiscal Year will hold a to Public Hearing, the purpose comments onHamilton the following proposed Pursuant VA Code Sec. for 15.2-2506, noticeofisreceiving hereby given that the Town Council
budget, on aMonday May 23, 2022, atpurpose 7:00 pm of in receiving the Towncomments Office, 53 E Highway, will hold Public Hearing, for the onColonial the following proposed Pursuant to VAcan Code Sec. via 15.2-2506, Meeting notice is by hereby given that the Hamilton Town Council will hold a Public Hearing, for the purpose of receiving comments on the following proposed budget, on Hamilton, VA. Public going to https://www.hamiltonva.gov budget, on Monday Mayattend 23, 2022, atVirtual 7:00 pm in the Town Office, 53 E Colonial Highway, Monday May 23, 2022, at 7:00 pm in the Town Office, 53 E Colonial The regular VA. Town Council will followMeeting immediately after the same location. Highway, Hamilton, VA. Public can attend via Virtual Meeting by going to https://www.hamiltonva.gov Hamilton, Public can Meeting attend via Virtual by going toat https://www.hamiltonva.gov The regular Council Meeting follow at immediately after at the same location. Copies of the detailed budget may be obtained at the Town Office during regular office hours (or via email), Monday-Friday Copies of theTown detailed budget may bewill obtained the Town Office regular The regular Town Council Meeting will follow immediately afterduring at the same location. 8:00 am - 4:00 pm, holidays excepted. office hours (ordetailed via email), Monday-Friday 8:00 am - 4:00 pm,Office holidays excepted. Copies of the budget may be obtained at the Town during regular office hours (or via email), Monday-Friday 8:00 am - 4:00 pm, holidays excepted.
TOWN OF HAMILTON BUDGET SUMMARY TOWN OF HAMILTON BUDGET SUMMARY REVENUES REVENUES
PROPERTY TAX LICENSE FEES PROPERTY TAX ZONING LICENSEFEES FEES FINES & FEES ZONING FEES SALES/UTILITY FINES & FEES TAXES BUSINESS LICENSE TAX SALES/UTILITY TAXES MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS LICENSE TAX INTEREST MISCELLANEOUS PRIOR FISCAL YEAR SURPLUS INTEREST WATER & SEWER SERVICES PRIOR FISCAL YEAR SURPLUS WATER & SEWER SERVICES CELL TOWER LEASE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS CELL TOWER LEASE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS TOTAL TOTAL
FY 22 FY 23 ADOPTED PROPOSED FY 22 FY 23 $ 279,189 $ 334,695 ADOPTED PROPOSED $$ 11,500 13,000 279,189 $ $ 334,695 10,000 $$ 5,000 11,500 $$ 13,000 $$ 1,425 3,200 10,000 5,000 $ $ $$ 78,250 80,400 1,425 $$ 3,200 $$ 20,200 34,000 78,250 $ $ 80,400 $$ 89195 384,900 20,200 $ $ 34,000 $$ 18,008 17,800 89195 $$ 384,900 $$ 783,004 24,134 18,008 $ $ 17,800 $$ 855,244 760,352 783,004 $ $ 24,134 855,244 $ $ 760,352 $$ 98,000 112,000 940,752 $$ 532,748 98,000 $ $ 112,000 940,752 $ 532,748 $ $
$
2,771,763 $ 2,771,763 $
2,715,233 2,715,233
TAX RATES TAX RATES Real Estate Tax - $0.26 per $100 of assessed value TAX RATES Personal Property per of $100 of assessed Real Estate Tax - Tax $0.26- $1.10 per $100 assessed valuevalue Real Estate Tax - $0.26 per $100 of$100 assessed value value Mobile Home Property - $0.26 of assessed Personal Property TaxTax - $1.10 per per $100 of assessed value
WAGES/SALARIES FACILITIES MAINTENANCE WAGES/SALARIES GENERAL ADMINISTRATION FACILITIES MAINTENANCE UTILITES ADMINSTRATION GENERAL ADMINISTRATION CAPITAL UTILITESIMPROVEMENTS ADMINSTRATION DONATIONS CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS UTILITIES DONATIONS OPERATING UTILITIES EXPENSES VEHICLE EXPENSES OPERATING EXPENSES MISCELLANEOUS VEHICLE EXPENSES VRA BOND PAYMENTS MISCELLANEOUS VRA BOND PAYMENTS CONTINGENCY TOTAL CONTINGENCY TOTAL
EXPENDITURES EXPENDITURES
$ $$ $$ $$ $$ $$ $$ $$ $$ $$ $ $ $$ $$ $
FY 22 FY 23 ADOPTED PROPOSED FY 22 FY 23 324,617 $ 392,082 ADOPTED PROPOSED 255,988 216,904 324,617 $$ 392,082 227,285 752,649 255,988 $ $ 216,904 714,280 227,285 752,649 n/a $ $ 532,748 940,752 714,280 n/a $$ 43,015 532,748 940,752 3000 $ $ 80,385 60,624 43,015 3000 $ $ 80,385 79,396 60,624$ $ 5100 4,600 79,396 $ $ 95,430 5100 139,177 $ 4,600 $ 95,430 122,451 n/a 139,177$ $ 122,451 $ n/a 2,262,606 $ 2,262,606 496,512 $ $ 2,771,763 496,512 $$ 2,771,763 $
2,715,233 2,715,233 2,715,233 2,715,233
for 05/12/2022 and 05/19/2022 for 05/12/2022 and 05/19/2022
Personal Property Tax - $1.10 per $100 of assessed value Mobile Home Property Tax - $0.26 per $100 of assessed value
Mobile Property Tax - $0.26 per $100 of assessed value Meals TaxHome - 4% of meals purchased
Transient Occupancy Tax -purchased of lodging charges Meals - -4% ofof meals MealsTax Tax 4% meals2% purchased Motor Vehicle License Fee $25.00/automobile and motorcycle Transient Occupancy Tax 2% of lodging charges Transient Occupancy Tax - 2% of lodging charges
Motor FeeFee - $25.00/automobile and motorcycle MotorVehicle VehicleLicense License - $25.00/automobile and motorcycle
5/12 & 5/19/22
TOWN OF LEESBURG
NOTICE OF TOWN COUNCIL PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER AN AMENDMENT TO THE ZONING ORDINANCE ARTICLES 15 AND 18 – DEFINITIONS FOR MURAL Pursuant to Sections 15.2-1427, 15.2-2204, 15.2-2205 and 15.2-2285 of the Code of Virginia, 1950, as amended, the LEESBURG TOWN COUNCIL will hold a public hearing on TUESDAY, May 24, 2022, at 7:00 p.m. in the Town Council Chambers, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia, 20176 to consider Zoning Ordinance Amendment TLOA-2021-0010 revising the following Section of the Zoning Ordinance: 1. Sec. 15.3 Definitions, adding the term “Mural” 2. Sec. 18.1.110.1, revising the definition for “Mural”. Copies and additional information regarding these proposed Zoning Ordinance amendments are available at the Department of Planning and Zoning located on the second floor of the Leesburg Town Hall, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia 20176 during normal business hours (MondayFriday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.), or by calling 703-737-7920 and asking for Michael Watkins, Zoning Administrator. This zoning ordinance amendment application is identified as case number TLOA2021-0010. At this hearing all persons desiring to express their views concerning these matters will be heard. Persons requiring special accommodations should contact the Clerk of Council (703) 771-2733 three days in advance of the meeting. For TTY/TDD service, use the Virginia Relay Center by dialing 711. 5/12 & 5/19/22
TOWN OF LEESBURG DEPARTMENT OF UTILITIES NOTICE OF WATER MAIN FLUSHING The Town of Leesburg will conduct controlled flushing of water mains throughout the Town beginning April through June 30th, 2022. This preventative maintenance program is essential for maintaining the Town’s high standards of water quality. Water mains are flushed by opening fire hydrants and allowing them to flow freely for a short period of time. The flushing cleans out sediment, removes air which may accumulate in the water mains and restores chlorine levels in areas of limited use, thereby, reducing the potential for bacteriological contamination. Water is safe to drink and safe to use during flushing. However, flushing may result in temporary discoloration and sediment in the water. If discoloration or sediment is evident, the Town recommends residents avoid doing laundry until the discoloration subsides. Flushing may also introduce air into the water, which may temporarily cause erratic flow. If this occurs, open your cold water tap until a clear steady flow of water is observed. Some residents and businesses may experience lower pressure during the flushing in their neighborhood. The Town regrets any inconvenience the flushing operation may cause. Please call the Utilities Department at 703-737-7075 for further information. For after-hour emergencies, call the Leesburg Police Department at 703-771-4500. 4/7, 4/14, 4/21, 4/28, 5/5, 5/12, 5/19 & 5/26/22
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MAY 12, 2022
Legal Notices NOTICE OF ABANDONED BICYCLES Notice is hereby given that the bicycles described below were found and delivered to the Office of the Sheriff of Loudoun County; if the owners of the listed bicycles are not identified within sixty (60) days following the final publication of this notice, the individuals who found said bicycles shall be entitled to them if he/she desires. All unclaimed bicycles will be handled according to Chapter 228.04 of the Codified Ordinances of Loudoun County.
PUBLIC NOTICE INVITATION FOR BID (IFB) The Town of Leesburg will accept bids electronically via the Commonwealth’s e-procurement website (www.eva.virginia. gov), until 3:00 p.m. on June 7, 2022 for the following:
IFB NO. 100313-FY22-32 PAVEMENT MARKING SERVICES FOR TOWN ROADS AND STREETS AND LEESBURG EXECUTIVE AIRPORT The Town is soliciting bids from qualified contractors to provide annual pavement marking services for Town roads and streets as well as for the Leesburg Executive Airport. Work includes street, parking lot and runway pavement marking and all incidentals related thereto per VDOT and FAA (as required) standards and specifications. For additional information, visit: http://www.leesburgva.gov/bidboard
Description
Case Number
Recovery Date
Recovery Location
Phone Number
Blue/black VXR08 Realm bicycle
SO220005741
4/2/2022
111 Gold Thorn Way Sterling, VA
703-777-0610
Grey Nishiki bicycle
SO220007106
4/24/2022
Whitewater Dr/Riptide Sq Sterling, VA
703-777-0610
Teal Canyon Ozone 2600 7 speed bicycle
SO220007584
5/1/2022
44105 Heron Way Leesburg, VA
703-777-0610 5/12 & 5/19/22
ORDER OF PUBLICATION COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA VA. CODE §§ 1-211.1; 8.01-316, -317, 20-104
Case No. CL21-3853 LOUDOUN COUNTY Circuit Court 18 EAST MARKET ST., LEESBURG, VA 20176 Kristen Werner-Cabello v. More Than Cheer-Loudoun, LLC, et al The object of this suit is to: personal injury lawsuit against More Than Cheer-Loudoun, LCC It is ORDERED that More Than CheerLoudoun, LLC appear at the above-named court and protect his/her interests on or before June 13, 2022 at 10:00 a.m.
5/12/22
5/5, 5/12, 5/19 & 5/26/22
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TOWN OF LEESBURG NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
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LEESBURG TOWN CODE AMENDMENT: CHAPTER 24 (OFFENSES AND MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS); DIVISION 2 (RIOTS AND UNLAWFUL ASSEMBLIES); SECTION 24-204 (LOITERING OR PROWLING)
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In accordance with Code of Virginia of 1950, as amended, Sections 15.2-926 and 15.2-1427, the Leesburg Town Council will hold a public hearing on: Tuesday, May 24, 2022, at 7:00 P.M. in the Council Chambers of Town Hall, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, VA at which time the public shall have the right to present oral and written testimony on the proposed amendment to Town Code Chapter 24 (Offenses and Miscellaneous Provisions) by amending Section 24-204 (Loitering or Prowling). The proposed amendment to the Town Code will address instances of repeated use and occupancy of the same area of public property or right of way in accordance with Virginia State Code Section 15.2-926. A copy of the proposed ordinance is available from the Town Clerk, located in Town Hall, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia, during normal business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.); or by calling Eileen Boeing, Town Clerk, at 703-771-2733. At this hearing, all persons desiring to express their views concerning these matters will be heard. Persons requiring special accommodations should contact the Clerk of Council at 703-771-2733, three days in advance of the meeting. For TTY/TDD service, use the Virginia Relay Center by dialing 711. 5/12/ & 5/19/2022
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MAY 12, 2022
PAGE 35
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MAY 12, 2022
Opinion Our Infrastructure
Two longstanding business award events returned to their full in-person configurations last week, providing more hopeful signs that the worst of the pandemic is behind us. But they were important in another way, as well, putting the spotlight on those who helped pull the community through that period of unprecedented uncertainty. The hospitality industry leadership championed by Visit Loudoun perhaps
was second only to our medical workers in serving on the front lines as cases ebbed and flowed during the past two years. And the companies and business leaders recognized by the Town of Leesburg were emblematic of the incredible perseverance required by employers to keep their doors open as the world around them shut down. This week, there is another awards ceremony, this one by Loudoun Cares, to highlight the community volunteers who provide vital support in normal times, but stepped up even more to meet the growing
needs of our neighbors. As we return to summer concerts and weekend winery visits and dinner out with friends—to life as normal (notwithstanding the latest COVID surge)—we should recognize the crucial roles these community members played in preserving the key ingredients that makes Loudoun a great place for us to live and for others to visit. They, more than roads or buildings, form the infrastructure that holds our community together today. n
LETTERS to the Editor Unnecessary Editor: It was reported that the county government is considering awarding future projects only to companies with employees represented by unions. There are several provisions in a collective bargaining agreement that are standard and appear in almost every one of them. These are considered economical and non-economical for obvious reasons. The economical provisions have financial impacts on both the company and the employees. They include wages, health insurance, 401K plans, vacations, and sick leave. In today’s market those in the trade industries are earning well above the “living wage” and have the ability to move from job to job if they are not happy as they are currently in high demand. The idea that the county should increase the cost of their construction projects is nothing more than a misuse of taxpayer funds. The non-economic provisions always
include union security, dues deductions and management’s rights. Union security provides that an employee must become a union member or pay the alternative monthly fees otherwise face termination by the company. Yes, the union that claims to be there for the protection of the employee wants that same employee terminated for not paying them. Seniority rewards longevity and stifles an employee’s hard work and initiative. Under the management’s rights provision, the company can operate however it wants provided such action is not already covered in the CBA but the company must meet with the union to discuss how a change impacts the employee, in essence the business owner has no decision making ability. My experience with many business owners is that they are not looking for a “partner” to tell them how to run a business they’ve been successfully running for years. This issue isn’t about a bad employer treating employees poorly, it’s about forcing a company to bring in a union, whether the employees
want one or not, just so the company can do business with the county. As for the other working conditions most are already covered by government regulations. Health and safety is covered by OSHA, overtime and timely wage payments are covered by the Department of Labor, while discrimination is overseen by the EEOC. It could be argued that these agencies came about because of issues raised by unions, but they now exist and do the job of the unions. In today’s society, unions are more of a political action committee than a necessary protector of employees. — Christopher M. McHale, Potomac Falls
Call Them Out Editor: I was shocked over the weekend to learn that the recently convened special grand jury investigation into the Loudoun County school division’s handling of a sexual assault case has issued subpoenas
for records of individual students. Reportedly, in at least one case, a records request directly targeted a transgender student who was unrelated to the initial scope of the investigation based on a keyword search for the phrase “transgender policy.” This child had no involvement in the sexual assaults incidents last year. And in fact, no transgender student was involved in those incidents. There have been assaults by football team members at Tuscarora High School. Is the grand jury investigating all football players? Or to the point, investigating other athletes? Why is the grand jury searching school records to single out transgender students and subpoenaing their records? Other than a predisposed bias, why would they be investigating innocent transgender kids? Why is the grand jury LETTERS TO THE EDITOR continues on page 38
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Middleburg Annexation Proposals:
How we are Considering and the Facts vs. The Fiction BY MAYOR BRIDGE LITTLETON
As most members of our community are aware, the town of Middleburg has received two prelimLittleton inary concept plans for potential requests to annex property into the town with the desire of building housing. We presented the facts and details of these proposals in a public information session on April 19, (thank you to everyone who attended). The goal of that public information session was to provide as much information as the town currently has, allow folks to see what the potential impacts will be, outline the town’s process for receiving input and feedback from the community, and to ask questions. Since that time, many folks in the community have either sent in questions or directly asked a member of the town government excellent and thoughtful questions and also provided valuable input, recommendations and feedback. Unfortunately, there has also been a good deal of misinformation, speculation, and simply erroneous info that has made its way into this very important community discussion. Our goal here is to lay out again the correct facts, our process, and reiterate our request for input and ideas from the community. It is very important to note at the outset that no applications have yet
been filed by either party, and the Council has made no decisions. The town felt it best that before taking on the expense, time, and effort for the applications to put together required for annexation applications, that it made more sense for the applicants to provide the community with a draft proposal and an overview of requests that we could then present to the community to receive feedback, input, suggestions. This feedback and input will ultimately guide us to understand if these proposals have merit to move forward or not, and/or what changes or revisions are necessary to address any concerns of the public. It is important to state again, no actual applications for annexation or BLAs have been made to the town at this time, so there is no action before the Town Council to take – this is all about education and information gathering. As mentioned, it is important to lay out again the facts of these proposals, our process going forward and dispel a certain amount of misinformation currently being circulated.
Q: Why is the Town considering these proposals at all? This is a very important question, and probably the most important question. The town is considering these proposals for two key reasons. First, in 2018-2019 the town rewrote its entire Comprehensive Plan which governs land use for the next 20 years for Middleburg. The comp plan is a policy document which guides
and captures the needs, hopes, vision, and desires of the community and how we will manage our zoning and land-use. At that time the town held three public input sessions, with several hundred citizens participating. The number one recommendation from the community was the desire for more price-varied housing for younger families, teachers, and workforce in Middleburg. Housing prices in Loudoun and in Middleburg have been outpacing salaries for many years, pricing out those looking for starter homes. The second reason is because in the Comp Plan we sought to establish a greenbelt of protected land around the town. The applicants are proposing to put almost 90% of their acreage in open space conservation easement to establish that greenbelt. This too is something our town citizens said they wanted.
Q: What is the Town process going forward? From a big picture perspective our goal is this: over the next several months to receive feedback and input from the community. We will then provide that feedback and input to both applicants and ask them to revise and update their proposals. They will then bring their revised proposals back to us and we will again present those to the community and again receive feedback and input from our citizens to understand how best to proceed. That will drive the ultimate decision as to whether the town will move forward or,
more importantly, not move forward with either of the proposals. Remember, each proposal stands on its own and are not linked to each other in any way.
Q: How do I get information and provide my input? The Middleburg community has multiple ways to view all the available information and provide feedback and input. We created a special page on our website which has all available documentation (https://www.middleburgva. gov/386/Proposed-AnnexationsBLAs). It also contains an online form to submit input and ask questions with no limits on multiple submissions. Additionally, we have an FAQ which we update every Friday with all new questions submitted and the answers. At each Town Council meeting for the next two months, we are reserving a special session at the beginning for public comment specifically on the annexations. If you wish to speak to the Town Council, you can do so at any of those meetings. Directly after that session, the Town Council will discuss the feedback received. Lastly, you can reach out directly to any member of Council, or a member of the town staff. Our principal responsibility is to provide the community with as much information as we have and answer every question that we can. We want to hear from you. MIDDLEBURG ANNEXATION continues on page 38
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Middleburg annexation continued from page 37
Correcting the Record. Fact vs. Fiction: FICTION: The town is only doing this for
more revenue to pay for the new town hall.
FACT: There could be nothing more pa-
tently false than this assertion. The fact is residential real estate taxes account for a minimal amount of our overall town revenues. In fact, of our total town revenues of $4.4 million, residential real estate taxes from the approx. 450 homes we have makes up just $270,000, or less than 7.5%. Residential real estate taxes do not even pay for a third of the cost of our Police Department, much less all of the other services provided to town citizens and businesses. Over 70% of our revenues come from business activities in town. Adding any additional housing will have no appreciable impact on our revenues. As the Town is currently running a surplus of $880,000 over expenses, we have no need for additional
LETTERS to the Editor continued from page 36 searching school records under the key phrase “transgender policy” at all? That policy had nothing to do with last year’s assaults and was not in effect at the time. The transgender policy is based upon the Gavin Grimm case and Virginia Law. The continuous involvement of well-established hate groups like the Alliance Defending Freedom and the Family Research Council in Loudoun School lawsuits and Republican political efforts is apparent. Incidents completely unrelated to transgender kids are used to smear that community and to work to hurt them. Willingness to lie to achieve hate-based goals is one of the defining characteristics of a hate group. And so many people seem ready to ignore the fact that these people are, in fact, hate groups. I’ve been very disappointed that more community leaders and politicians have remained silent on this matter. Transgender children are a tiny, vulnerable
revenues to run the Town or pay for the new Town Hall.
will simply exercise their by-right zoning rights in Loudoun County.
FICTION: The proposed homes at the
FICTION: The Town Council and the Mayor do not care about conservation or protecting the west.
Homewood Farm site are going to be affordable dwelling units (ADUs) or some other form of subsidized housing.
FACT: This again, is utterly untrue. The
owner has proposed to build small sized units aimed at entry-level homebuyers but fully market rate driven and unsubsidized in anyway.
FICTION: We have to accept these two proposals of 126 homes as is. FACT: That is incorrect, as was mentioned
in every public meeting, these are first draft proposals. The town has unilateral authority to approve or deny any proposal, or ask for a modification. These applications are not set in stone. And yes, if the overwhelming feedback from the community is that they want to see a reduction in the scale and scope of these projects, that is what we will take back to the applicants. We reiterate, at the end of the day no matter what proposal is submitted, the town can still ultimately say no and the applicants/land owners minority. The continuous efforts to tie them to assaults and to define them as dangerous is hate. Stop it. Call these people out. We will not let hate win. — Connie Rice, Leesburg
Complex Issues Editor: As everyone knows by now, Middleburg’s mayor, Town Council and staff have been discussing two potential boundary line adjustments or annexations, as they are known. The issues are complex and require thoughtful consideration of the benefits and costs of proceeding or not with these adjustments. Recently the mayor held a well-attended public information session regarding these actions, and the town also has information about them on its website, including a section for public comment (middleburgva.gov/bla). We have also set aside a separate public comment session for each of our twice-monthly council meetings and will continue to do so for several months more. Our goal is not only to keep the public informed about possible actions that affect the town, but
FACT: Nothing could be more absurd
or offensive than this statement. The Council has worked extremely hard over the last four years to fight back against suburban sprawl, the threats to Middleburg and Western Loudoun County. This should be clear by our effort on many issues such as working to preserve historic Aldie from developers, fighting on behalf of St. Louis to fight the MOJAX development, advocating hard and working with others to restrict the by-right cluster zoning in Loudoun County- these are just a few of many examples. We have met with the Board of Supervisors during public comments and individually dozens of times and worked closely with conservation preservation groups and uniting with COLT (the Coalition of Loudoun Towns) to protect rural western Loudoun. The fundamental fact about these properties is that they are going to be developed one way or the other. One way is under by-right uses in Loudoun also to solicit ideas and suggestions we may not have considered. So far feedback has been informative and comments—both pro and con—have been helpful. The Town Council appreciates the thoughtfulness of most; it is the only way we will get any of this right. However, a recent letter to this newspaper not only mischaracterizes possible consequences of the BLA proposals, but also attacks the mayor, imputing base motives for even considering these questions. Among the writer’s misleading assertions was his charge that annexations are tied to a desire on the part of the town to gain funding for the new town hall through the increased real estate tax revenue that would come with these adjustments. In reality, real estate taxes form a small percentage of the town’s budget (less than 15%), with over 70% of our tax revenues derived from our businesses. Real estate taxes do not cover the costs of the services our citizens receive. In fact, following substantial increases in 2022 real estate tax assessments by Loudoun County, the town council significantly reduced real estate tax rates to minimize the impact of the increased
MAY 12, 2022
County. The other way is through the town having control. What that control looks like is up to all of us. But as we learned with the Banbury Cross development, change is going to happen. We can either engage and shape that change or allow the County zoning to shape it. Either is an approach, and we want to know from you what is the best path. In closing, we again want to thank all the members of our community who have taken the time to understand the details of these proposals and provide meaningful and thoughtful feedback and recommendations. We are going to continue this process for the next several months and we ask everybody to provide us with their thoughts. As stated earlier, the town has made no decisions on these proposals, and we are dedicated to understanding what the community wants. What has always made our Town the special place that it is, is the diversity of people in it, and how everyone genuinely cares for each other regardless of background, wealth, race, or religion. We are all bound together by wanting to do what is best for each other and to ensure our legacy of community is preserved for the next generations. n assessments on our property owners. It should also be clear that the town hall project is fully funded through very favorable loans, money already in our budget, and county and federal grants. There is simply no relation between the town hall and the potential annexations. Again, we thank those who have reached out to get the facts to understand these proposals. The same writer—instead of offering concrete suggestions on how to do the annexations smarter or influence development outcomes if we do not proceed with them—only demands that we “fight” the possible developments. Fine, but how are we to fight in a way that will have any impact? We only control what happens in our borders; Loudoun controls the rest. Perhaps if the writer had examined how “by right” development works in Loudoun County, he might have come up with ideas—instead of empty exhortations—to help the town as it tries to navigate these waters. — Morris “Bud” Jacobs, Council Member
MAY 12, 2022
Balch centennial continued from page 1 nated $10,000 to build a public library in their father’s memory. According to the Friends, the library was dedicated with a special requirement—that it maintain and foster a section dedicated to local history. The library’s centennial celebration got off to an early start on Friday when local government leaders and library advocates gathered on the front lawn to take both a look back, and one forward, at a facility all regarded as a town treasure. Thomas Balch Library Advisory Commission Chairman Jim Hershman Jr. said the community owes a debt of gratitude to the sons of Thomas Balch, a native of Leesburg who is credited with being the father of international arbitration. Balch’s two sons sought to establish a library in the town in honor of their late father, who was born 100 years prior to its May 1922 opening. Hershman noted that having a local library was extremely rare in 1922. At the time, he said, 96% of Virginians who lived in towns with a population of less than 2,500 residents had no access to libraries. For the library’s first 38 years, it was a private, subscription-based library. It then was run as part of the Loudoun County Public Library system for 34 years, before the town took ownership and made it a specialized library of history and genealogical research, in which it has served the past 28 years. Hershman credited the town’s investment in Balch library as “an act of foresight,” with a renovation and expansion that doubled its size in the late 1990s. The library has been supported over the
Look ahead continued from page 4
during work to revise the comprehensive plan, including one who still comes to the Board of Supervisors regularly to push them for action. “I don’t know if I want to punish the residents who did nothing different but buy a home in a rural area, and then watch all this stuff go up around them,” she said. And other supervisors, even if they didn’t disagree with the solar panel regulations’ priority, said they’re not realistic to get done in this term. “I think if we were to move the other one up, all we’re going to do is not get the Red Hill one done, and the solar one is still going to be way out because it’s such
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years by an active advisory commission, on which Hershman has served for 28 years, and the Friends of Thomas Balch Library, a support and advocacy organization formed in 1995. The Thomas Balch Library Endowment Foundation has also been critical to the library’s growth. The nonprofit was formed in 2015 to receive, maintain and administer assets in perpetuity to support programs and outreach services of the library. Circuit Court Judge Thomas D. Horne was recruited to help the library shortly after his retirement from the bench. He first served on the Friends group before joining the foundation, for which he serves as its chairman. Horne recalled the “unusual way” the foundation was formed. There had been no proper vehicle to dispense the substantial financial gifts that were bestowed on the library, so special legislation was put before the General Assembly to authorize Leesburg to create a nonprofit organization. Hershman credited Library Director Alexandra Gressitt for being key to Balch’s success. Since coming on board after leaving the Library of Virginia in 2003, the library has grown by leaps and bounds. Annual visitors increased from 6,000 in 2007 to more than 33,000 in 2019. Gressitt and her staff were also credited for their massive outreach effort in engaging with the public during the library’s closure or reduced hours during the COVID-19 pandemic, fielding thousands of phone calls and emails for research needs, even when its part-time staff had to be furloughed. The library’s holdings have also increased dramatically, from 7,000 items in 2000 to more than 98,000 in 2019. Mayor Kelly Burk recalled her initial sadness in 1994 when the announcement was made that Balch would be transition-
ing into a research library. She had loved the weekly story times with her sons when Balch was part of the county system. “Now I realize the mistake I made,” she said. Donna Bohanon, chairwoman of the library’s Black History Committee, hearkened back to her committee’s formation. In 2000 an anonymous $50,000 donation was given to the library, with the stipulation that a room in the library be named for a prominent African American in Loudoun County. A committee was formed to gather nominations, and ultimately Howard Clark Sr. was chosen as the room’s namesake. Clark earned the nickname of “Mr. Emancipator” for the pivotal role he played in founding the Loudoun County Emancipation Association in 1890, and his efforts in improving the quality of education for African American children in the early 1900s. Since its role in the room nomination process, the Black History Committee has since gone on to be a “fundamental resource for so many other organizations in the county,” Bohanon said. “When I think about a building I think about foundations,” she said. “Consider how much we all benefited from one donation.” To commemorate of the historic anniversary, a lavender twist weeping redbud tree was planted on the library’s front lawn. The library’s centennial exhibit “Thomas Balch Library: 100 Years of History and Knowledge” is available for viewing during library hours throughout the month of May. In addition, a Sept. 11 fundraiser for the Thomas Balch Library Endowment Foundation is planned. For more on the library, go to leesburgva. gov/departments/thomas-balch-library. n
in COVID cases, with vaccinated people faring better with the disease. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is recommending communities base their actions on case and the hospitalization rates. In Loudoun, the hospitalization rate remains low, but the seven-day average rate of cases per 100,000 residents climbed above 200 this week. That puts the county into a “medium” impact category. Arlington reached the medium impact level last month and Arlington and Fairfax counties hit that benchmark last week. For communities with a “medium” level of impact, the CDC recommends people who are immunocompromised or at high risk for severe disease consult their healthcare provider and consider taking additional precautions, such as wearing masks and social distancing. Residents should also consider self-testing to detect infection before having contact with people who are at high risk of severe disease. Residents also should be fully vaccinated and boosted. Those exposed to COVID-19 or have symptoms should be tested and isolate from others. The change in the level of community impact in Loudoun County does not trigger any changes to masking and social distancing requirements in county facilities. As of Tuesday, the school division was reporting 27 active cases among staff members and 253 students with infections. On Monday, only 122 active cases among students had been reported. n
a big project,” said Supervisor Matthew F. Letourneau (R-Dulles). “From a work plan point of view, efficiency, I don’t think it makes a lot of sense to do that.” Buffington also opposes bringing the Red Hill community into the Transition Policy Area, which he pointed out would effectively be upzoning land currently planned as rural. He said upzoning areas because adjacent areas are developed will eventually lead to building out the county’s rural area. “Eventually, it’s always going to be built up right next to the line, and somebody’s going to want to be upzoned because they want to sell and move away and make a killing because their property just got upzoned,” Buffington said. “So they bought it cheap under the Rural Pol-
icy Area density, then they got it upzoned while they lived there, then they’re able to sell it for a lot of money and move away, and all of a sudden now that newly zoned Transition Policy Area is going to be developed.” Buffington’s motion to swap the new solar array regulations and the Red Hill work failed 3-6, with Buffington, Supervisor Kristen C. Umstattd (D-Leesburg) and Vice Chairman Koran T. Saines (D-Sterling) in favor. Among the projects ahead for county planners are new regulations and standards for short-term residential rentals such as Airbnbs, expected to be complete in September; updated airport noise maps in September; and new protections for prime agricultural soils and updates to
cluster zoning in October. A planning initiative to decide how to widen and improve safety on Rt. 15 is expected to finish in July. Additionally, a committee to recommend new names for the county courthouse is expected to have suggestions ready in November, and the project to apply for National Historic Landmark designation of the historic Courthouse and grounds is expected to wrap up in March. The “Path to Freedom” historic exhibit on the courthouse grounds is on the list, but with no current completion date. Other projects including the Red Hill Community, reviving the county’s Purchase of Development Rights program, and new solar arrays policy are on the list, but without any specific timeline yet. n
COVID surge continued from page 1
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