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Competing Football Stadium Bills Head to Negotiations
MARCH 10, 2022
Local State of Emergency Officially Ends BY RENSS GREENE
BY RENSS GREENE AND NORMAN K. STYER
rgreene@loudounnow.com
rgreene@loudounnow.com nstyer@loudounnow.com
The Virginia House of Delegates and Senate have passed very different versions of a bill to create a Virginia Football Stadium Authority in a bid to attract the Washington Commanders games to the commonwealth, and now the future of that authority falls to six legislators appointed to a committee. Missing from that committee: Anybody representing any of the three sites reportedly under consideration for the new stadium. According to state legislators two possible sites are in Prince William County and one in Loudoun. The Loudoun site at the southeast quadrant of Rt. 28 and Old Ox Road, currently Loudoun Quarries, is near plans for an expansive mixed-use development, Rivana at Innovation Station. It is also a site considered by a previous Baseball Stadium Authority to attract a Major League Baseball team to Virginia. That site is located in districts represented by Del. Suhas Subramanyam (D86) and Sen. Jennifer B. Boysko (D-33). The two sites in Prince William County are on undeveloped land on Telegraph Road near Summit School Road, and in the Potomac Shores Community. Those are represented by Dels. Luke E. Torian (D-52) and Candi Mundon King (D-2) and Sen. Scott A. Surovell (D-36). None of those were appointed to the
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Hayley Milon Bour/ Loudoun Now
The proposed stadium site in Loudoun in currently Loudoun Quarries, southeast of Rt. 28 and Old Ox Road.
conference committee, which includes Virginia Beach Del. Barry D. Knight (R81), Danville Del. Daniel W. Marshall III (R-14), and Chesapeake Del. C.E. Cliff Hayes Jr. (D-77), joined by Springfield Sen. Richard L. Saslaw (D-35), Bedford County Sen. Stephen D. Newman (R23) and Alexandria Sen. Adam P. Ebbin (D-30). Knight and Saslaw were the two bills’ patrons.
Commanders owner Daniel Snyder is pursuing a project that would incorporate a new NFL stadium in a larger mixeduse development. The Loudoun site, now home to a quarry operation, previously was rezoned to allow construction of a large mixed-use community known as
Loudoun’s state of local emergency, prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic and first declared on March 17, 2020, ended just a couple of weeks short of two years the evening of Tuesday, March 1. News of a new virus spotted in China had been circulating since late 2019, but life in the U.S. largely proceeded as normal. The first case of “coronavirus disease 2019” was announced in Loudoun on March 10, 2020. That first press conference would soon become unthinkable—all the leading figures in Loudoun government’s response to the pandemic, including the county chair, Fire-Rescue chief, sheriff, Health Department director, Leesburg mayor and others, standing together unmasked in the county boardroom. In those early days, people were urged not to stockpile supplies like hand sanitizer, and to leave the masks for the professionals. On March 16, 2020, Loudoun County Administrator Tim Hemstreet issued a declaration of local emergency. Supervisors followed that up with a confirming vote the next day, launching the county government
STADIUM AUTHORITY continues on page 39
EMERGENCY ENDS continues on page 37
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Bond Denied for Murder Suspect Arrested in Dubai BY HAYLEY MILON BOUR hbour@loudounnow.com
Renss Greene/Loudoun Now
Loudoun Cares Executive Director Valeria Pisierra stands to accept her award at the Loudoun Chamber of Commerce’s 10th Loudoun Community Leadership Awards on March 3.
Chamber Celebrates Community Leadership Award Winners LOUDOUN NOW STAFF REPORT
The Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce recognized the winners of its 10th Loudoun Community Leadership Awards during its annual meeting March 3 at the Lansdowne Resort & Spa. This year, Kindra Dionne, Valeria Pisierra, Northwest Federal Credit Union, and both the CEO Consulting Group and its founder Tina Johnson took top honors. It was the Loudoun Chamber’s 54th Annual Meeting. Johnson took to the stage twice, once to accept an award in the Executive Leader category, and once with her team at the CEO Consulting Group that was honored in the Small Business category. “Together we have had a ripple effect, making a major impact on the community where we live, work and play by being committed to donating 10% of our proceeds to the nonprofit community,” Johnson said. “In the words of Mother Teresa, I alone cannot change the world, but I
can cast a stone across the water to create many ripples.” Dionne, who is founder of Purpose WorX and Loudoun’s first Black woman to own a wine label with Fifty Leven Wine, said she was surprised to win and took to the stage to accept her award tearfully. “I’m so grateful for this opportunity, to be in this room of so many amazing leaders,” she said. Pisierra, the Loudoun Cares executive director, was honored in the nonprofit executive category. “I never really wanted to be in charge. That was not my my intention ever, but opportunities present themselves, and it’s how we face those opportunities, no matter how scary they are, no matter how much we feel like we’re not the right person. The only way you can face them and be successful is by the people that surround you,” she said. And Northwest Federal Credit Union was honored in the large business
category. The winners of the 2022 Community Leadership Awards have the opportunity to select one nonprofit organization that will be the beneficiary of a $1,000 grant, courtesy of the Community Foundation of Loudoun and Northern Fauquier Counties. The five winners and 20 finalists were chosen in five categories: Large and Small Businesses, Nonprofit Executive, Executive Leader and Young Professional. They were selected by a panel of business and nonprofit leaders. The other finalists in the large business category, for companies with 100 or more employees, were BCT – The Community’s Bank, Belmont Country Club, and Google. The finalists in the small business category were Road Runner Wrecker Service, The Fitness Equation, and You’ve Got Maids of Northern Virginia. LEADERSHIP AWARDS continues on page 23
A man accused of murdering an Ashburn woman on Dec. 30, 2021 and apprehended in Dubai last week after an international search was denied bond in Loudoun County District Court today. Furqan Syed, 40, was arrested in Dubai by the Dubai Police and INTERPOL UA, and was returned to Loudoun Syed County on March 3 through multi-agency effort. He is charged with fatally shooting 57-year-old Najat Chemlali Goode in her home Brambleton. Deputies were initially called to the Connie Marie Terrace home shortly before 8:30 p.m. Dec. 30, 2021, where a family member found the victim unresponsive inside the residence. Goode was taken to StoneSprings Hospital Center where she died from her injuries. Syed was identified as a suspect through neighborhood security camera footage and cell phone data that put him near the scene at the time of the crime, according to the charging documents. Sheriff’s Office Detective Tommy Rodriguez testified during Tuesday’s bond hearing that Syed’s brother, Urquan Syed, cooperated with the investigation. Deputy Commonwealth’s Attorney Michele Burton said both brothers are members of the group BOND DENIED continues on page 23
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LOUDOUNNOW.COM
MARCH 10, 2022
Loudoun
Supervisors Give Arcola School for Affordable Housing Project BY RENSS GREENE
rgreene@loudounnow.com
The Loudoun Board of Supervisors has voted to give the former Arcola School to developer Michael Capretti to develop 10 price-controlled units inside the building, and another 64 units in an addition to the historic structure. Those would stay price-controlled for at least 75 years. It would be the affordable housing component of a larger project also including another estimated 226 for-sale units on a 20-acre parcel across the street, some also price-controlled. The developer also would build public recreational and parking facilities and two bus stops at the portion of the Arcola School site that would remain under county ownership. But there are more votes and county paperwork to get through before those plans get off the ground. Next, Capretti and the county will have to begin a rezoning application on that property and the property across the street as co-applicants. The land transfer only becomes final if and when the rezoning is approved and the developer secures financing for the affordable housing development, and the land would revert to the county if construction does not begin within two years.
Renss Greene/Loudoun Now
The Old Arcola School will be used for affordable housing as part of a large development.
The proposal has faced some opposition from neighbors who are worried about increased traffic congestion. Supervisor Matthew F. Letourneau (R-Dulles) said he expects those problems will be reduced with the ongoing work on area roads like Northstar Boulevard, hopefully reducing cut-through traffic on Stone Springs Boulevard. And he said the proposal for housing across the street from the school,
and the proffer agreements that come with a rezoning application, would be an improvement over the currently approved industrial project on that site. He said that would bring a 268,000-square-foot project generating 4,900 vehicle trips a day. “I’ve been really concerned about the impact of that application for quite a while,” Letourneau said. “And so it’s not often that I would be eager to discuss
some type of conversion form industrial/ commercial to residential. But in this case, when you look at those traffic impacts and you look at just simply the quality of life and the value to the neighborhood homes of having a heavy industrial corridor immediately adjacent, it had been really concerning.” Supervisors also pointed to commitments in the land transfer agreement to preserve historic aspects of the building and its façade, while some also downplayed its historical significance. The building was built in 1939 as a six-room, one-story school by the Public Works Administration, part of the New Deal initiative to lift the United States out of the Great Depression. It has always been a publicly owned building; after serving as a school, it was reopened as the Arcola Community Center in the 1970s. In 2013, it was added the National Register of Historic Places. Since it closed, like some other vacant properties under the county government’s ownership, it has deteriorated. Some have called on the county to renovate the building as a senior center, but the county staff has advised that is cost prohibitive beARCOLA SCHOOL continues on page 7
Sterling Community Center Reopens LOUDOUN NOW STAFF REPORT
Loudoun County leaders celebrated the grand opening of the long-awaited Sterling Community Center renovation Saturday at 120 Enterprise St.. The ribbon cutting ceremony was followed by an open house with tours, demonstrations, and entertainment. Normal hours of operation began Monday, March 7. The Sterling Community Center has been serving the community since 1975. In 2014, voters approved general obligation bonds to finance renovations to the 18,200-square-foot facility. Sterling native Supervisor Koran T. Saines (D-Sterling) recalled seeing the center grow throughout his life. He said seeing the renovation is “a very special moment for me and for the Sterling community.” “That is what makes the Sterling Com-
munity Center so special—it is a one-stopshop that showcases the diversity of our community, brings everyone together for events like SterlingFest, and provides a safe and welcoming environment for people of all ages to learn, play, and create,” Saines said. “This renovation project began back in 2014 and although today’s grand opening ceremony has been a long time coming, I am very proud of what we have been able to accomplish with this effort.” The extensive renovation raised the single-floor center to two stories. It includes a new patio area for public seating, a lawn area for programs, a renovated pavilion, an outdoor amphitheater around the existing pavilion, an enlarged gym, new roofing, and a range of other upgrades. For more information about the facility’s hours, many programs and rentals, go to loudoun.gov/prcs or call 703-430-9480. n
Loudoun County
The renovated Sterling Community Center reopened Saturday.
MARCH 10, 2022
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Irreversible is not a word you want to hear from your Doctor but it’s a common one if you’ve been diagnosed with Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy or CIPN. Tom S. of Leesburg survived testicular cancer only to be living life in constant pain. He felt as though he were walking on pins and needles, becoming weaker and weaker everyday. “I was beginning to be worried that one day I would be wheelchair bound.”
Nearly half of patients who undergo chemotherapy will develop Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy or CIPN. Chemotherapy meds travel throughout the body and attack cancer cells; sadly they can also cause severe damage to healthy nerves. CIPN can begin within weeks of starting treatment and can worsen as treatment continues. A high number of really unfortunate people will be forced to endure the symptoms associated with CIPN for months, or even years after they’ve completed chemo. When asked how CIPN was affecting his quality of life, he responded, “It was difficult to even walk up and down stairs and do other things we usually take for granted.”
The most common symptoms include: pain, tingling, burning, weakness, or numbness in arms, hands, legs or feet sudden, sharp, stabbing or shocking pain sensations loss of touch sensation clumsiness and trouble using hands to pick up objects or fasten clothing loss of balance and falling For some, their nerves will recover over time. For most, the nerve damage is ‘irreversible.’ Tom had been told just that by a series of Doctors and specialists. Essentially they could cure his cancer but couldn’t fix the damage done by the drugs used to cure his cancer.
“I remember thinking ‘that’s become mighty easy for me’, I didn’t have to hold on to the hand rail or anything! It’s life changing to have this mobility back!” Again and again, we meet with patients who were once diagnosed as “untreatable” or “incurable” but after receiving Rachal Lohr’s treatments are now living lives free from pain and suffering. For over 14 years she has been reversing the effects of CIPN and other varieties of Peripheral Neuropathy, including that caused by diabetes without invasive surgeries and medications that come with uncomfortable side effects.
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MARCH 10, 2022
Supervisors Re-Up Airport Protections, Launch Noise Zone Redraw est noise impact areas. In addition to updating those maps, supervisors had previously considered eliminating a one-mile buffer around the airport noise impact areas. That area has no direct impact on zoning, but in that area sellers and Realtors must disclose to potential homebuyers that there is an airport nearby. That idea raised concerns not only from the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority that operates Dulles Airport but the Town of Leesburg and
BY RENSS GREENE
rgreene@loudounnow.com
Following a 2019 study of current and future air traffic noise around Dulles International Airport and years of preparation, supervisors have formally launched the process of redrawing the maps of airport noise impacts in county zoning. Those maps dictate among other things where homes can be built—residential construction is not permitted in the high-
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people involved with Leesburg Executive Airport, who were concerned about possible impacts around that airport. But at their meeting March 1 supervisors backed off that idea. MWAA State and Local Government Affairs Manager Michael Cooper said “that’s worked so well for you as a board and your residents.” Supervisors also said there don’t ap-
pear to be property value concerns associated with the notification requirement. “What I found years ago in the discussion with the Realtor community is that a lot of them just simply didn’t know about the requirement, and once they found out they wanted to ensure that it was included in closing,” said Supervisor Matthew F.
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AIRPORT NOISE continues on page 7
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MARCH 10, 2022
Arcola school
Airport noise
continued from page 4
continued from page 6
cause of the state of the building. “More often than not these properties sit and they fall into disrepair, and they are almost blighted properties that no one seems to pay attention to at all until the county says we’re going to do something, and then they become the most important historical structure for everybody, and I’m like, where were you all this time?” said County Chair Phyllis J. Randall (D-At Large). “This property has been sitting vacant for decades,” said Vice Chairman Koran T. Saines (D-Sterling). “… So if somebody truly wanted to do something with this, they’ve had plenty of opportunity to do so.” Supervisor Juli E. Briskman (D-Algonkian), however, vowed to push to preserve the building’s historic aspects. “If you never save things that were built 70 or 100 years ago because you don’t think they’re necessarily special and you tear them down, then people 100 years from now never know what was built,” she said. “I think anything that was built via the [Works Progress Administration] is probably kind of cool, and we should probably work on keeping it.” It is not the first time the property has been considered for affordable housing. In 2016, supervisors voted down a proposal from the Windy Hill Foundation to renovate the building into apartments and build a separate two-story, 36-unit apartment building on the property. That proposal did not include the larger development across the street. Then supervisors at the time cited Dulles Airport’s high noise zone—at the time, Windy Hill was requesting an exception to county zoning to allow homes in the airport noise zone depicted on county zoning maps. The maps are undergoing revision to reflect a new noise study, taking the property out of that district. This time, only Supervisor Kristen C. Umstattd (D-Leesburg) voted against the land transfer. “I’m always a bit worried when we take an area that is suitable and zoned for commercial uses and begin to convert it to residential, because the tax implications are always negative for the taxpayer,” Umstattd said. She also worried that the site isn’t a good location for housing, not being close to grocery stores and other services. Supervisor Tony R. Buffington (R-Blue Ridge), who was absent, had also expressed skepticism about the project. Supervisors approved the land transfer 7-1-1, with Umstattd opposed and Buffington absent. n
Letourneau (R-Dulles). “The fact that people are complaining about airport noise when they live near an airport is so—it’s like, really? I don’t even understand. It’s like complaining that you’re wet when you jump in a swimming pool,” said Chair Phyllis J. Randall (D-At Large). Supervisors also had considered trimming back the noise zone in one area near plans for a future fifth runway. The air-
PAGE 7
ports authority also objected to that, noting that much of the air traffic in that area is due to flights from existing runways— and that a long-planned fifth runway at Dulles may not be so far in the future. With United Airlines in talks to invest more in its operations at Dulles Airport, those conversations are back on the table, Letourneau said. “We almost built the fifth runway back in 2006 when Independence Air was going gangbusters and it looked like everything was going to grow,” Cooper said. “And market conditions didn’t pan out the way everyone expected, and we didn’t. So
we’ve been on the precipice of building the fifth runway before.” Supervisor Caleb E. Kershner (R-Catoctin) recalled flying into other airports around the country with homes built right up to the runways, in contrast to Dulles Airport. “It’s very obvious here in Loudoun, and Dulles specifically, the excellent planning we’ve done,” he said. Supervisors voted 8-0-1 in favor of the Resolution of Intent to Amend county zoning, with Supervisor Tony R. Buffington (R-Blue Ridge) absent. n
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MARCH 10, 2022
Leesburg
Leesburg Council Takes First Crack at Budget BY KARA C. RODRIGUEZ krodriguez@loudounnow.com
In its first budget mark-up session Monday night, the Leesburg Town Council made some minor adjustments to Town Manager Kaj Dentler’s Fiscal Year 2023 proposal that resulted in a slight increase to the real estate tax rate. Dentler’s proposed $153 million budget came with an accompanying 17.6-cent real estate tax rate. Should the changes made Monday night hold, rate could bump up to 17.66 cents, adding $2-$9 dollars on to homeowners’ bills. In a series of straw votes, council members showed support or opposition to a number of additions or deletions brought forward for discussion. Councilman Zach Cummings found support for adding $15,000 into the budget for a Potter’s Field memorial project at Ida Lee Park being spearheaded by the Thomas Balch Library Advisory Commission. That money would come from the town’s unassigned fund balance, thus would have no impact on the tax rate. Potter’s Field was actually located
at the intersection of East Market Street and Catoctin Circle. The half-acre site was purchased by the town in 1839 to use as a graveyard for the burial of paupers. During an archaeological excavation of the site in the early 1980s, evidence of hundreds of graves was uncovered, including the remains of Charles Cravens, a lynching victim from 1902. The bones that were retrieved from the site during the excavation were re-interred at a mass grave in a plot at Union Cemetery. Cummings said the commission originally hoped to have a memorial for Potter’s Field at the cemetery, but the cost of land alone exceeded $20,000, and thus the commission chose to pursue a site at Ida Lee Park. Council members also supported funding two other commission requests, both brought forward by Councilman Neil Steinberg—a $35,000 request from the Parks & Recreation Commission to install historical/informational plaques at seven town parks, detailing more information about who the park is named for, or the history of the park; and a $12,000 request from the Commission on Public Art to
continue efforts to promote the Arts & Cultural District. Cummings also attempted to find support to look at lower cost options, like mothballing or boarding up windows on the Wirt Street building recently acquired by the council. The property, a former office, has been eyed by the town government for years as potential land to expand Town Hall. Estimates for renovating the structure range from $600,000 to $800,000, while costs to demolish it are estimated at $200,000 to $300,000. Mothballing the building to preserve its condition is lowest cost option, at $75,000 to $80,000, according to a staff report provided to the council. Cummings pointed out that pursuing the most expensive option would only net the town government enough space for about four new offices. Only council members Suzanne Fox and Kari Nacy supported going forward with the mothballing option. Fox proposed removing $100,000 earmarked for the creation of an economic development strategic plan, another initiative that would be funded by the unassigned fund balance. Only Nacy supported that
straw vote. Councilman Ara Bagdasarian recommended taking the $100,000 for the economic development plan and instead using it to fund smart parking technology. When that idea did not win support, he proposed adding $150,000 to the budget for the smart parking technology in the Town Hall parking garage. That did find majority support. The council continued to go back and forth on whether to fund a Planning Commission-endorsed transportation study. After some debate, Dentler proposed returning to the council in two weeks with more information about the cost of updating the town’s current transportation model versus the cost of funding a completely new study. Nacy proposed funding a new neighborhood grant program with initial seed money of $150,000, but was supported only by Fox and Cummings. The program would assist both communities with and without HOAs in making improvements such as new streetlights. Mayor Kelly Burk expressed her concerns that there BUDGET continues on page 9
Historic District Forum Challenges Parking Priorities BY NORMAN K. STYER nstyer@loudounnow.com
A pair of Charleston, SC, architects who champion traditional design concepts gave Leesburg’s historic district high marks during a forum for town leaders last week and offered some surprising advice on how to protect, and even expand it. Speaking to an audience that included members of Town Council, Planning Commission, Board of Architectural Review, town staff and builders, Jenny Bevan and Christopher Liberatos, of B&L Architects, on March 4 discussed strategies promoting compatible development in historic districts. “This is one of the most intact historic districts we have ever been in,” Liberatos said. They discussed the history of the Charleston Historic District, which was established in 1931 as America’s architects and developers were moving away from traditional design toward more auto-centric, suburban communities. The goal of the district was to require new development to match the historical style of
Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now
Jenny Bevan and Christopher Liberatos discuss historic district protection strategies during a March 4 forum at the Lightfoot Restaurant.
its surroundings. They noted that it would be mostly impossible to build Charleston’s historic downtown under today’s zoning rules—an observation expressed in Leesburg many times over the years—but also pointed out that those neighborhoods are some of the most popular places to live, attracting residents from around the globe and ever-in-
creasing property values. During the program, Bevan questioned one policy in the draft Legacy Leesburg town plan update that calls for development outside the historic district to be distinct and not mimic design of the downtown. “We think that is crazy,” she said. If government leaders or developers were looking to meet the demands of the market, “you would be building more places like Leesburg,” she said. Among the major challenges to protecting historic districts, they said, was one very familiar to Leesburg leaders: parking. But the solution they suggested was the opposite of the direction the town has been taking. Demands for more parking increase the threats to downtowns rather than promotes their prosperity, they said. They noted that in many communities, downtown buildings are razed to make more room for parking. And unnecessarily high parking requirements result in undesirable designs for new development. While complimenting the design of the Town Hall parking garage as one of the best they’ve seen, they highlighted the development trend they called the Texas
donut, in which buildings are constructed around a large parking garage. Two of downtown Leesburg’s most recently approved developments, Church & Market and the Virginia Village redevelopment, resemble that pattern. In both cases, town leaders expressed concerns that not enough parking would be provided. Bevan and Liberatos said downtown environments shouldn’t be expected to meet the parking needs of inbound commuters. In fact, they said, communities should hope to have parking problems. “The only places that don’t have a parking problem are dead or dying,” Liberatos said. Bevan said excessive parking effectively has other unintended impacts, including serving as a tax on affordable housing—taking up spaces that could be put to better use. The program was sponsored by Fianna Investments’ Carl Gustavson, whose family owns three North King Street buildings and invested in the adaptive reuse of the Peoples Bank building to become the Lightfoot Restaurant where the event was held. n
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
MARCH 10, 2022
Budget continued from page 8 would be “equity problems” with such a program, as only the most organized or, perhaps, vocal communities would receive funding. Salaries of town government employees, particularly the Leesburg Police Department, commanded significant attention Monday night. Dentler has proposed the return of a cost of living adjustment of 2% for all full-time and regular part-time town government employees, the first time that has been in the town budget in more than a decade. Employees also are eligible to receive pay for performance raises of up to 4%. Dentler said the 2% COLA is less than employees deserve, particularly with the rising cost of inflation and the amount of time that has elapsed since the last COLA payments. The town manager also pointed out that Leesburg was one of the few localities in the region that did not provide bonuses to employees during the pandemic. Nacy said out she had personally advocated for them when the town received its stimulus money from the federal government. She proposed saving $500,000 by eliminating the COLA payments from the budget, but emphasized that was not a reflection of
her appreciation for staff, but of how the council can help taxpayers. She did not receive support for that cut. On the police department, Dentler said the town has made a concerted effort to address salaries for its officers, with the force’s “front line workers,” or officers through the rank of lieutenant, receiving a salary increase this year. The town, like many jurisdictions, is dealing with compression issues as starting salaries have increased in part due to the competitive job market, in some cases at a faster rate than the salaries of veteran workers. Leesburg’s police officers’ starting salary is now the highest in the region, Dentler added. Dentler said he is attempting to address the positions most vulnerable to turnover throughout the organization. Police Chief Gregory Brown said, at some point down the road, he would like to take another look at the pay bands for police officers. A public hearing on the proposed budget was planned for Tuesday night, after this paper’s deadline. A public hearing on the tax rate is planned for March 22, the same evening the council is expected to adopt the budget. For more information on the budget, go to leesburgva.gov/budget. n
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Contributed
Leesburg's Rangers are state champs.
Ranger Wrestling Club Wins State Championship The Leesburg-based Ranger Wrestling Club last week clinched its first-ever, overall team title at the Virginia club wrestling championships. The tournament, held at Meadow Park Event Center in Doswell, featured more 160 clubs from throughout the state. The Rangers, who entered 61 wrestlers, brought home championship banners for the U8 and U14 age brackets as well as being the overall boys club champions. With 36 medalists, the program also set a record for most team points scored in the history of the club state tournament. Jacob Nelson, Caleb Burns, Flynn Arnestad, and Sawyer Jones won individual state titles. The club, led by President and Head Coach Joel Caruso, was formed in 2008 as an off-season high school club. It converted to a youth club in 2013. Learn more at rangerwrestlingclub.com. n
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PAGE 10
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
MARCH 10, 2022
Education
SCHOOL notebook
Education Foundation Marks Progress, $1.4M Computer Science Grant LOUDOUN NOW STAFF REPORT
The Loudoun Education Foundation secured a $1.4 million grant is bolstering computer science education in the school division, thanks to the statewide economic initiative GO Virginia. Loudoun, which received the grant alongside Chesapeake Public Schools in 2020, matched the funds to expand the program to all students in grades K-12. The funds bolstered existing course offerings, including computer science courses, including robotic design, programming, cybersecurity, and software design. “School and business leaders see the K-12 Computer Science Pipeline as a key to the success of Virginia’s tech industry,” Loudoun Education Foundation Executive Director Danielle Nadler stated. “We’ve seen business leaders in the Loudoun and Chesapeake areas step
Contributed
A student at Leesburg Elementary School gets a lesson in coding as he programs a handheld robot.
up to take part in internship fairs, guest speaking opportunities, internships and externships because they truly see this as a solution to their challenge of meeting workforce demand.” Administrators see computer science education as a key to filling a void in the local workforce, where tech talent is in high demand. “Virginia has more than 30,000 unfilled computer science positions. The K-12 Computer Science Pipeline is preparing tomorrow’s tech workforce by getting students excited about problem solving and computational thinking early on,” Deputy Superintendent for Instruction Ashley Ellis said in a statement. “Our students are graduating from high school equipped and ready to continue their education at the college level if they so choose or immediately enter the workforce.” n
Fight for Schools Sues for Sexual Assault Report BY HAYLEY MILON BOUR hbour@loudounnow.com
The group Fight for Schools is turning to the courts to obtain a copy of the report the school division commissioned to investigate its handling of a sexual assault scandal. Executive Director Ian Prior announced Monday that he is filing a Mandamus and Injunction in Loudoun County Circuit Court, asking the court to demand the school division make public the report prepared by the law firm Blankingship and Keith. The firm was put on a retainer by the school division in the spring of 2021. Superintendent Scott Ziegler said on Nov. 5, 2021 that the firm would be conducting an “independent review” of the division’s handling of two sexual assaults in Ashburn high schools involving the same assailant. The first assault occurred on May 28 at Stone Bridge High School, and the second on Oct. 7 at Broad Run High School. The division has come under fire for not releasing the report, citing attorney-client privilege.
Two to Join SEAC The School Board is set to appoint two new members to the Special Education Advisory Committee as part of its March 8 meeting consent agenda. Elizabeth Bayard will represent the Algonkian District, while Lakshmi Raghavan will represent the Dulles District. SEAC members identity needs of students with disabilities and develop plans and guidance for the school division.
SEAC Seeks Award Nominations The Special Education Advisory Committee is asking members of the community to nominate educators, students, programs, parents, and community members who have demonstrated dedication to the special education community. According to SEAC, the Recognition for Excellence in Supporting Special Education Awards “honor those who have gone above and beyond to foster meaningful inclusion that promotes adaptability, creativity, disability awareness, acceptance, and peer-to-peer interactions for students with disabilities. To nominate someone, go to tinyurl.com/5n8s299f. The SEAC awards ceremony will be at Riverside High School on June 1.
6 Schools Named ‘Schools to Watch’ for 2022
Hayley Milon Bour/ Loudoun Now
Fight for Schools Executive Director Ian Prior during an anti-Critical Race Theory rally in June 2021.
“The petition and injunction do not seek release of exempt materials or information related to the victims. Rather, it seeks the release of non-exempt materials and information related to the ‘independent review’ which LCPS is refusing to release pursuant to its flawed claim of attorney-client privilege,” Fight for Schools said in a statement. Ziegler, who originally cited shortcom-
ings in Title IX protocols as the reason the teen was able to assault a second student before disciplinary action was taken, was listed as the Title IX coordinator until November, when former chief of staff Mark Smith was named to the position. Smith was fired from the school division in January, but the division would not comment FIGHT FOR SCHOOLS continues on page 11
Belmont Ridge, J. Michael Simpson, Mercer, Seneca Ridge, Smart’s Mill and Trailside middle schools have been redesignated as Schools to Watch by the National Forum to Accelerate Middle-Grades Reform. The schools must be reevaluated every three years and show continuous growth in academic excellence, responsiveness to students needs, and social equity. The schools will be honored during the National Schools to Watch conference in June. n
MARCH 10, 2022
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PAGE 11
Board to Hold Town Hall Meetings LOUDOUN NOW STAFF REPORT
The embattled School Board has entertained hours-long public comment sessions filled with theatrics and viral moments for well over a year—leaving members to not tackle items on their meeting agendas until late in the night, if at all. Now, the board will give the public a forum during town hall meetings. Updates to Policy 2510, Community Communications and Community Involvement, are making their way through School Board committees. If the policy revisions pass, the board will hold three
Fight for Schools continued from page 10 on his departure. It is unclear what his role would have been in handling the assaults since he was not listed as the Title IX coordinator at the time of the incidents. Fight for Schools redrafted removal petitions for School Board members in October, to include the charge that they had, at least, some knowledge of the assaults, though only four members face a
or four town hall forums annually. All School Board members will be required to attend. One of the sessions would be required during the annual budget adoption process. The School Board may decide to dedicate the remaining forums to specific subjects, or leave them open to all topics. Individual School Board members may still hold their own community meetings. Andrew Hoyler (Broad Run) has regularly held town hall sessions since being appointed to his seat in October. It isn’t clear yet how the board will alter the public comment portion of regular meetings once town halls are underway. n removal effort. “Our elected officials and taxpayer-funded school division must be accountable to the people of Loudoun County. Without transparency, there can be no accountability,” Prior said. “If Loudoun County Public Schools wants to spend taxpayer money to defend its continued defiance of transparency and accountability, then we will fight to force the issue and bring the truth to light.” The scandal is being investigated by Attorney General Jason Miyares’ office. n
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Public Safety
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Winchester man charged in the Nov. 19, 2021, robbery of a Leesburg bank today pleaded guilty to two felony charges. Kenneth W. Sencindiver is accused of approaching a teller at the M&T Bank on East Market Street, handing her a note demanding cash from her drawer and Sencindiver claiming there were armed accomplices waiting outside. He left the bank with about $525 in cash, but a dye pack exploded before he got to the car where his son was waiting for him nearby. The two men were arrested the next night following a police chase that started in Frederick County and ended in Purcellville. Sencindiver was charged with robbery, use of a firearm during a felony,
DDS, MS
two counts of transporting a weapon by a felon, and three counts of possession of ammunition by a felon. During a March 3 appearance before Circuit Court Judge Douglas L. Fleming Jr., Sencindiver pleaded guilty to two charges—robbery with threat or intimidation, and possession or transporting ammunition by a convicted felon. Both charges are class 6 felonies that carry maximum sentences of five years in prison. In a proposed plea agreement with county prosecutors, he would face a maximum active sentence of five years in prison. Fleming delayed a ruling on whether to accept the plea pursuant to that agreement until he reviews the sentencing guideline report, which had not yet been prepared. A sentencing hearing is set for June. 14. Charges against his son, Kenneth W. Sencindiver II, were dismissed during a previous District Court hearing. n
SAFETY briefs Sheriff Investigates Noose Found at Independence High
Armed Robber Hits Beauty Supply Store
The Sheriff’s Office is investigating a noose found at Independence High School in Ashburn on Monday morning. According to the report, administrators told the school resource deputy that a teacher found the rope attached to a school banner outside of the stadium. Principal John Gabriel sent an email to families saying that officials don’t believe any student or teacher was involved in the incident. There were no classes on campus Monday because of a teacher workday. “We reject and condemn the use of these intimidating, racist symbols and hateful demonstrations of any kind; please know they do not reflect our values at Independence High School,” Gabriel wrote. He said further details are unavailable as the incident is under active investigation by the Sheriff’s Office. The Sheriff’s Office said that two suspects were seen in the area the evening the rope was left at the school walking a black and white dog.
The Sheriff’s Office is investigating the armed robbery of a Sterling beauty supply store that occurred Saturday afternoon. According to the report, around 12:30 p.m. March 5 a man entered the Atlantic Boulevard store and began placing merchandise into a bag. When confronted by the clerk, the suspect displayed a firearm. He left the store with several items and fled the area. The suspect is described as a Black male wearing a black jacket with a large white Nike logo on the back, a grey hooded sweatshirt, black pants, black shoes with white soles, and a light blue, surgical mask. He was seen leaving the area in what appeared to be an older model Honda Accord with Virginia temporary license plates. Anyone with any information regarding the possible identity of the suspect is asked to contact Detective K. Mitchell at 703-777-1021. You may also submit a tip through the Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office app. SAFETY BRIEFS continues on page 13
MARCH 10, 2022
SAFETY briefs continued from page 12
Frederick Man Charged After Deputy Pursuit A 49-year-old Frederick, MD, man was arrested last week after a near-miss crash with a county deputy on the Leesburg Bypass. According to the Sheriff’s Office report, a deputy was on patrol near the Sycolin Road overpass just before 8 p.m. March 1 when a vehicle changed lanes and almost caused the deputy to crash. During the subsequent pursuit, the driver continued at a high speed and refused to stop. The deputy dropped the pursuit because of dangerous conditions, but continued to follow the driver from a distance. Deputies later located the vehicle and the driver near English View Place in Leesburg. Stephen R. Moore was charged with fleeing and eluding, aggressive driving, two counts of reckless driving, illegal vehicle tint, and failure to stop before turning right at a red light. He was held without bond at the Loudoun County Adult Detention Center.
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
Leesburg Man Charged in Plaza Street Crosswalk Crash A 76-year-old Leesburg man has been charged with reckless driving following a crash that injured two women in a crosswalk. According to police, the crash happened shortly after 6 p.m. on Feb. 2 near the Leesburg police station. A vehicle on Plaza Street had stopped while two adult female pedestrians were in a crosswalk, when a second vehicle hit the stopped vehicle from behind, which then hit both pedestrians, trapping one under the vehicle. The first Leesburg Police officer on the scene and civilian bystanders lifted the vehicle off of the entrapped pedestrian and freed her. Officers provided medical treatment until Loudoun County Combined Fire and Rescue System personnel arrived and took over medical care. The other woman and the driver of the stopped car also received injuries described as minor. The 76-year-old driver of the second car, Gene Harrison, remained on-scene and cooperated with police. The people injured in the crash continue to recover from their injuries, according to police. n
Our Community’s Largest Day of Giving Early Giving Begins on March 15
PAGE 13
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LOUDOUNNOW.COM
MARCH 10, 2022
Nonprofit
Community Foundation Issues Recommendations for Ukraine Support Efforts LOUDOUN NOW STAFF REPORT
The Community Foundation for Loudoun and Northern Fauquier Counties is working with other community foundations and the Council on Foundations to help coordinate efforts to support nonprofits providing direct services in Ukraine and surrounding countries providing refugee support. “Community Foundations work to be a trusted source in grantmaking, connecting donors to nonprofit organizations with accountable approaches,” stated Community Foundation President & CEO Amy Owen. “Our donors have asked for this guidance, and we share this summary with our local community. It is by no means an exhaustive list. Our
hope is to bring into focus organizations serving varied issues and populations.” Each of the recommended charities meet gold, silver, or platinum certification on guidestar.org, which offers additional programmatic and financial information for each nonprofit. The Washington, DC-based Center for Disaster Philanthropy manages the Ukraine Humanitarian Crisis Recovery Fund, focused on addressing humanitarian needs that arise, particularly among the most vulnerable, marginalized and at-risk internally-displaced peoples and refugees. Make a gift and learn more at disasterphilanthropy.org. Doctors Without Borders, based in New York City, is working to set
up emergency response activities in Ukraine as well as dispatching teams to Poland, Moldova, Hungary, Romania, and Slovakia. Teams are also being readied to respond in Russia and Belarus. Make a gift and learn more at doctorswithoutboarders.org. Internews in Washington, D.C., supports journalists and independent media news outlets in Ukraine by providing them with resources to ensure their safety and ability to continue working during the conflict. This includes resources for emergency relocation and/or hibernation; safety supplies for armed conflict (e.g., flak jackets, helmets, first aid kits and satellite phones); equipment; and training whenever possible for emergen-
LoCo Ice Bowl Raises $30K for Hunger Relief
Schaufeld Family Makes $50K Grant to Loudoun Laurels Endowment LOUDOUN NOW STAFF REPORT
BY RENSS GREENE rgreene@loudounnow.com
The 2022 LoCo Ice Bowl disc golf tournament raised $30,262 for hunger relief. The group previously gave hundreds of dollars to the Blue Ridge Food Area Food Bank and Capitol Area Food Bank. On Wednesday evening, during a disc golf putting competition at Vanish Farmwoods Brewery, Treasurer and Ice Bowl series director Jacob Baker presented Loudoun Hunger Relief with a check for $28,262. It is the biggest donation yet for the LoCo Disc Golf club. Last year, the Loudoun club’s LoCo Ice Bowl fundraising was first in the nation for Ice Bowls— edging out a club covering the entire state of Colorado after placing second the year before—and the fifth-largest in nationwide Ice Bowl history. This year’s rankings have not yet been announced. It is the 11th year of the
cy first aid and safely covering during armed conflict. Make a gift and learn more at internews.org/donate. Save the Children, based in Fairfield, CT, has been active in Ukraine since 2014 and working with established partners to help children in Ukraine in most seriously affected areas providing water, hygiene kits, and cash grants to families for food, medicine, and mental-health impacts. Make a gift and learn more at savethechildren.org. And the World Food Program in Washington, DC, has on-the-ground support underway providing food assistance for people fleeing Ukraine. Make a gift and learn more at secure.wfpusa. org/donate/ukraineconflict-gsst. n
Renss Greene/Loudoun Now
Loudoun Hunger Relief President and CEO Jennifer Montgomery accepts a $28,262 donation from the LoCo Disc Golf club following the group’s 11th LoCo Ice Bowl.
Loudoun club’s Ice Bowl. Loudoun Hunger Relief President and CEO Jennifer Montgomery accepted the check. She said it is the nonprofit’s 30th year. “Although I wish we could tell you that you weren’t needed, I wish we’d
put ourselves out of business in the last 30 years. Unfortunately that hasn’t happened,” Montgomery said. “But we will continue to be here for our neighbors that need us, and you guys are also a huge part of that.” n
The Schaufeld Family Foundation has awarded a $50,000 grant to the Loudoun Laurels Foundation for its Loudoun Laurels Stewardship Trust endowment. “My family and I are thrilled to have the opportunity to contribute to the longterm sustainability of the mission of the Loudoun Laurels—to provide educational scholarships to our promising youth,” said Karen Schaufeld in announcing the award. The Loudoun Laurels Foundation was created to honor exceptional community service by individuals for the benefit of Loudoun County residents. In 2013, the nonprofit established the trust to grant scholarships to high school graduates who are among the first generation in their families to attend college. “We are so grateful to the Schaufeld LAURELS ENDOWMENT continues on page 15
MARCH 10, 2022
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Loudoun Literacy Council Names New Executive Director LOUDOUN NOW STAFF REPORT
Loudoun Literacy Council has announced its new executive director, Regina L. Sobieski. Sobieski arrives with 18-years of mission-related expertise and leadership. While living in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, she helped create a truancy reduction program earning a national designation as Promising Practice through crimesolutions.gov. While in Texas, she earned a master’s degree from the University of North Texas while serving as the national assistant director for advocacy and research with Mothers Against Drunk Driving, National office. She also has been invited to provide training and a keynote address in Tokyo, Japan by the Japanese Ministry of Justice; to deliver an address in Budapest, Hungry during the 50th anniversary of the Declaration of Human Rights; and to speak to members of Canada’s Parliament regarding restorative justice.
Laurels endowment continued from page 14 Family Foundation for this significant grant, in addition to the $40,000 grant they made to fund an individual scholarship in 2019,” said President Pat Daly. “Until 2019, our scholarships were funded by individuals, foundations, and businesses. In July 2019, the Loudoun Laurels Stewardship Trust received matching gifts of $250,000 each from the Claude More Charitable Foundation and the May Family Foundation to establish the endowment. The Schaufeld Family Foundation’s grant has increased the additional contributions made to our endowment since 2019 to more than $100,000.” The Loudoun Laurels Stewardship Trust has awarded $920,000 in scholarships to 23 Loudoun County high school students. Each year the Loudoun Laurels’ directors, on the recommendation of the
Loudoun Literacy Council
Loudoun Literacy Council Executive Director Regina L. Sobieski.
The nonprofit Loudoun Literacy Council teaches English communication skills and provides literacy resources to empower low-income adults and children to become self-sufficient, with a wide range of programs including Head Start, STEP, baby book bundles, GED preparation, English classes and other offerings. Learn more at loudounliteracy.org.n
members of its advisory committee, grant two or more scholarships in the amount of $40,000 each. The Foundation disburses its scholarships in $10,000 increments annually to the Virginia colleges or universities attended by the students over the four-year terms of their undergraduate studies. By the end of the academic year in May 2021, 94% of the Loudoun Laurels scholarship recipients had either graduated from college or were currently enrolled. Of the 23 Loudoun Laurels Scholars, 13 have graduated and nine are successfully pursuing their college careers. Three of the graduates are pursuing advanced degrees at Yale School of Medicine in Molecular Medicine, Pharmacology, and Physiology; Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism; and William & Mary College, while others have established careers in banking, public service and technology. n
The Loudoun Laurels Foundation seeks nominations for its 2021Laureate. 2022 Laureate. Recipients will be at at The 2022 Laureates willhonored be honored The Loudoun Laurels Gala at Lansdowne Resort Friday, September 30, 24, 2022. 2021. Visit our web site at www.loudounlaurels.org for more information about Laureate candidate qualifications, how to make a nomination, Gala sponsorships and event tickets.
Loudoun LoudounLaurels Laurels aurels
info@loudounlaurels.org
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MARCH 10, 2022
Business
Flying Ace Farm Products Coming to ABC Stores
Tap In Swings into Action BY NORMAN K. STYER nstyer@loudounnow.com
The staff at Tap In this week were putting the finishing touches on the new indoor golf and entertainment venue in preparation for welcoming their first customers. Located in Leesburg’s Virginia Village shopping center, the business is expected to attract a blend of friends gathering for a social evening out and hard-core golfers seeking to lower their handicaps. The center’s seven bays of state-of-theart Trackman golf simulators can address both of those groups and more. In rolling out the new venture, Virginia Village owner Brian Cullen is drawing on his experience launching the Ashburn Ice House decades ago. He sees the business opening with a “public skate” approach, with groups coming in for hourly rentals to shoot a round of virtual golf at one of 143 courses available in the library— from Pebble Beach to St. Andrews—and enjoy a beer and a burger. But the program will expand with golf leagues, clinics, and summer camps.
Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now
Tap In General Manager Adam Fridy works on his seven iron performance using one of the seven Trackman golf simulator bays at the new Leesburg indoor golf and entertainment venue.
And while the space is well suited to happy hour crowd, corporate team-building events and birthday parties, Cullen sees the simulator technology as a big attraction for serious golfers who want to hone their game—ranging from extra practice to sophisticated swing analysis—and for newbies interested in
learning the sport. Opening is expected by mid-March, and those interested are encouraged to sign up online for program notifications and membership discounts. Tap In is located at 38-E Catoctin Circle in Leesburg. Learn more at tapinleesburg.com. n
StoneSprings Opens Ambulatory Surgery Center StoneSprings Hospital Center last week celebrated the opening of its ambulatory surgery center. Stone Springs Ambulatory Surgery Center will provide outpatient care for orthopedic patients and fulfill a need for dedicated orthopedic surgical space in the growing community. The surgery center occupies the site of StoneSprings Hospital’s former freestanding emergency room at 24570 Medical Drive. The 18,630-squarefoot, $6.8 million center is jointly owned by 16 physician partners. The center provides surgical services for general orthopedics, total joint replacement, and spinal procedures. Amenities include two advanced operating rooms, the latest patient safety technology and private recovery rooms..
Contributed
From left, StoneSprings Hospital board member Dr. Sinha Sangeeta; Vice President of Operations Ryan Duffy; Loudoun Chamber of Commerce President Tony Howard; Ambulatory Surgery Center Administrator Chris Piper; StoneSprings Hospital CEO Nathan Vooys; Dulles Regional Chamber of Commerce Vice President of Membership Chris Grady; Dulles Regional Chamber of Commerce President John Boyland; StoneSprings Hospital board members Mike Rhodes and Roy Barnett; and Dr. Andrew Bishop.
“Today, we celebrate this investment in our community,” said StoneSprings Hospital Center CEO Nathan Vooys. “With a new ambulatory surgery center
right here, in the heart of the growing Rt. 50 corridor, patients have a convenient and cost-effective environment for orthopedic care close to home.” n
Flying Ace Farm’s American Ace Spirits will be available in limited quantities at Virginia ABC stores in the coming weeks. Flying Ace Farm opened as Loudoun County’s first Farm Distillery last spring and has since received numerous awards for its craft spirits, including 2021 Silver and Bronze New York World Wine & Spirits medals, and Double Gold & Silver medals from the 2021 North American Bourbon and Whiskey Competition. Beginning in 2022 Flying Ace Farm bottles of its blended bourbons, silver rum and three-grain whiskey will be available at the following ABC Store locations: Leesburg (Fort Evans Road), Alexandria (Duke Street), Broadlands (Broadlands Center Plaza), Virginia Beach (Hilltop North Shopping Center), Tysons (Leesburg Pike), Gainesville (Linton Hall Road), Centerville (Fair Lakes Shopping Center), Purcellville (East Main Street), Fairfax (Fairfax Boulevard), South Riding (Dulles Landing Drive) and Ashburn (Ashburn Village Boulevard) Additionally, the spirits are available for purchase online and pickup at the Lovettsville-area farm. Learn more at flyingacefarm.com.
Simmons Named CapRelo’s VP of Global Operations CapRelo, a Sterling-based global employee relocation and assignment management firm, has promoted Liz Simmons to vice president of Global Operations and International HR Compliance. “Liz is an asset to our team and clients and this promotion recognizes her contributions and growing role,” stated CEO Barry Morris. “She leads with strength and compassion and helps our international clients and their employees manage relocations during these challenging times.” Based in the UK, Simmons has been with CapRelo for nearly five years, last serving as director of operations. She manages a team of global mobility consultants in EMEA and APAC region and provides operational/HR support for entities in the UK, India, and China. In her expanded role, she is responsible for the strategic planning, design, and delivery of services for global relocation and/or global compensation activities. Prior to CapRelo she served in global mobility roles in Xerox, Motorola, and Arthur Anderson. n
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
MARCH 10, 2022
PAGE 17
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
DRIVERS NEEDED
Position
Department
Salary Range
Closing Date
Accounting Associate II
Finance
$50,000-$76,882 DOQ
Open until filled
Biosolids Operator: Trainee, I, II, or Senior
Utilities
$50,000-$97,512 DOQ
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Buyer II/Contracts Administrator
Finance
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3/22/2022
Deputy Director of Utilities
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9/3/19
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Public Works & Capital Projects
$50,000-$76,882 DOQ
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IT Systems Administrator
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Police Officer
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Utilities
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Utility Plant Operator: Trainee, I, II, or Senior
Utilities
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Utility Plant Technician or Senior Utility Plant Technician
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Zoning Analyst
Planning & Zoning
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Regular Part-Time Position Position
Department Administrative Associate
Hourly Rate Human Resources
$21.21-$36.30
Closing Date 3/22/2022
Flexible Part-Time Position C
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Position
Y
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CMY
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Department
Hourly Rate
Closing Date
Library Assistant
Thomas Balch Library
$20.51-$33.42 DOQ
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Parking Enforcement Officer
Finance
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Senior Engineer
Plan Review
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Summer Internship Position
Department Planning & Zoning Intern
Hourly Rate Planning & Zoning
$15.00
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.
See the full job listings at NowHiringLoudoun.com
Closing Date Open until filled
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MARCH 10, 2022
Towns
Round Hill Council Seeks Lower Tax Rate BY NORMAN K. STYER nstyer@loudounnow.com
The lowest real estate tax rate among Loudoun’s towns may be going lower this year. Round Hill is the county’s second smallest town, with only 255 homes within its boundaries, but it has a large utility system, serving 1,700 homes and businesses. Thus, most of the town’s expenses, revenue, and personnel are linked to water and sewer service. Property taxes cover only about one-fifth of the town’s General Fund expenses. Last week, Town Administrator Me-
AROUND towns HILLSBORO Ukraine Support Concert Planned April 2
lissa Hynes presented her draft of the FY23 budget, proposing to keep the town’s 9.6-cent real estate and $1.15 personal property tax rates unchanged next year. Because of increases in real estate assessments, keeping the current tax rate would increase the tax bill of the average homeowner by $64 next year, according to the presentation. Council members questioned whether that was necessary, noting that adopting the equalized tax rate of 8 cents would only decrease revenues by $20,000 in the proposed $883,875 General Fund budget. Some pointed to other line-item
revenue sources, such as the sales tax, that might be projected too conservatively and were likely to easily make up the $20,000 difference. Mayor Scott Ramsey said that even if the revenue lines don’t balance out there was no reason the council couldn’t tap into its $1 million of General Fund reserves to make up a shortfall. He said the council should determine what is a fairshare contribution from residents, as the town’s large reserve fund provides members with a lot of flexibility. Aside from the tax rate, the council’s questions centered on the proposed staff compensation changes. Hynes proposed
President Amy Marasco said funds will be directed to leading relief organizations that are working on the ground assisting Ukraine refugees in neighboring countries and those still inside Ukraine. “Part of our Foundation’s mission is to ‘help neighbors in need,’ and just as we did to help people with basic needs during COVID, and in organizing a clothing drive for the Afghan refugees coming through Dulles, we now lift our hearts and mind to the global stage to be in solidarity with the people of Ukraine.” Those interested learning how they can support this relief effort may contact the Town office at 540-486-8001 or email info@hillsborova.gov.
complete the purchase of a pitching machine for the school’s baseball team. Tom Small, chairman of the Ruritan Club’s Grants Committee and Past President Al Menendez delivered the funds to the school during a team practice on March 2. Additional funds to support the purchase were raised by Tuscarora Baseball Team parents. The precision controls on the pitching machine help the coaches build muscle memory, skill, and physical strength of every team member. Last year, the team advanced to the state semi-finals where they lost by one run.
The Town of Hillsboro, in conjunction with the nonprofit Hillsboro Preservation Foundation, will host a UkraineAid Concert in The Gap on April 2 to raise funds to support relief efforts for the people of Ukraine. Event organizers plan an all-star roster of musicians to perform during the event, which also will feature restaurants, wineries and breweries providing food and beverages. LUCKETTS Additionally, the town announced it will dedicate the proceeds from this Saturday’s Frozen in Time Gala to Ukraine support efforts instead of to help fund the town’s Independence Day fireworks display as planned earlier. “We are all looking for a way to support and show solidarity with the brave people of Ukraine, who are fighting for Contributed their homes and their lives in the face of The Lucketts Ruritan Club presents a $2,000 this brutal Russian invasion,” said Hills- grant to the Tuscarora High School Baseball team. boro Mayor Roger Vance. “There too is the need for us, as a community, to join Lucketts Ruritans Award together to collectively express our huGrant to Tuscarora Baseball manity in response to this outrage and The Lucketts Ruritan Club has awardlend our hands and hearts to help our brothers and sisters in Ukraine. This con- ed a $2,000 grant through its Youth Development Grant Program to the Tuscacert serves both those needs.” Hillsboro Preservation Foundation rora High School Athletic Department to
PURCELLVILLE Planning Underway for Music and Arts Festival The Purcellville Music and Arts Festival will be held on Saturday, April 30, 2022 from noon to 7 p.m. in Dillon’s Woods and the Bush Tabernacle. Organizers are seeking exhibitors and food vendors to participate in this festival, which celebrates Purcellville’s community, culture, and arts. Applications for food and exhibiting vendors will be accepted until April 1. Sponsorship opportunities also are available. The annual Purcellville Music and Arts Festival is a free, family-oriented event featuring live music and performances on multiple stages, an art show,
a 2% merit increase with a 2% COLA, but members agreed that was unlikely to keep pace with the spike in inflation and suggested a 3% COLA instead. While urging Haynes to bump up the compensation pool, council members also requested that she base her plan on the equalized 8-cent take rate when she returns with a revised budget next week. Ramsey characterized the deliberations as a quintessential local government meeting with leaders advocating increased spending and lower taxes. “The council wants to have its cake and eat it, too,” he said. n fun activities, and artisan and food vendors. The festival is jointly hosted by the Town of Purcellville, the Purcellville Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, and the Purcellville Arts Council. Vendor applications and sponsor packages can be found at purcellvillemusicandartsfestival.com. For more information, contact Ashley Goundry, agoundry@purcellvilleva.gov or 540209-3449.
ROUND HILL Rough Road Coming to an End There’s good and bad news for Round Hill area residents who have been navigating the bumps and dips of the Loudoun Street construction zone for the past year. Crews are expected to lay the final— and smooth—layer pavement over the next few weeks. As the contractor wraps up the final construction elements, including work on conduit, sidewalks, and curbs, longer traffic delays should be expected. Delays of up to 10 minutes at a time are possible. The town is urging residents to avoid that section of road—between Main Street and Evening Star Drive—during the 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekday work periods. After that work wraps up, crews will turn their full attention to the Main Street sidewalk installation, the final part of the project. n
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MARCH 10, 2022
Death Notices KATHERINE D. FISHER, 70, of Middle-
burg, died March 1. She was born Oct. 6, 1951, in Palo Alto, CA, to Robert and Mary Winston Nelson Fisher. She moved to Middleburg in 1997 and worked as a technical writer for many years. She volunteered with the town’s Go Green and Pink Box committee, was active with the Meadowbrook Homeowners Association, the Garden Club and the Page-Nelson Society. She is survived by her sisters Page Dimos and Randy Caldwell. Services were held March 5 at Thaiverse Restaurant. [Royston Funeral Home]
ROBERT KELLEY, 77, of Lovettsville,
died Feb. 25. He was born Nov. 11, 1944, in Lovettsville, to Woodard Wilson Kelley and Margaret Ellen Kelley. He worked for the Town of Leesburg until he retired in 2008. He was a lifetime member of the FOE Eagles in Brunswick, MD. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Carolyn; daughter Kimberly Lacasse; son Christopher Kelley; three granddaughters; three great-grandchildren; and sister Anna Mae Steiner. He was predeceased by his son Paul Kelley; brother Donald Kelley; and sister Iva Jean Wright. Services were held March 4 at Loudoun Funeral Chapel. [Loudoun Funeral Chapel]
MARY JANE KIPPLEY, 90, of Ashburn,
died Feb. 27. A native Washingtonian, she was born June 22, 1931. A graduate of Dunbarton College of the Holy Cross, she received her master’s degree in U.S. history from Georgetown University in 1956. She was a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution Ketoctin Chapter and the National Society Colonial Dames XVII Century, Anne Constable Lee Chapter. Her husband Ken died in 1986. She is survived by her children Charles and Theresa; six grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. Services were held March 8 at the Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament Church in Washington, DC. Memorial contributions may be given to Doctors without Borders. [Colonial Funeral Home]
DAVID ARTHUR KREAGER, 70, died Feb.
27 in Leesburg. He was born Sept. 5, 1951, to Arthur William Kreager and Margaret Collins Kreager in Indianapolis, IN. He spent his childhood years living in both Minnesota and Ohio. He earned a degree in political science from Kenyon College and a master’s degree in public affairs from the University of Minnesota. He worked for several companies including UnitedHealth and the Kaiser Foundation, and Principal Financial Group. He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Alison; daughter Katharine; son Robert, and three grandchildren. Services will be held April 2 in Leesburg. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or the American Heart Association. [Colonial Funeral Home]
ARTHUR STEVENSON “BUMPSIE” LLOYD,
77, of Middleburg, died Feb. 26. He was born Nov. 16, 1944, in Markham. He was raised in Middleburg, attending Banneker Elementary School and Douglass High School. He went on to graduate from Virginia State College in 1968 with a degree in industrial arts education. He married Shirley Alfreda Amy in 1969. They had a son, Brian Keith Lloyd. He taught high school industrial arts in Chesapeake and Loudoun counties before starting his own business, A&S Cleaning Services which he operated for nearly 30 years until his retirement in 2010. A memorial service will be held at a later date. [Loudoun Funeral Chapel]
BRODY ALEXANDER WATSON, 12, of Aldie, died Feb. 24. He was born March 25, 2009, to Ashley and Wendy Watson. He was a seventh grader at Willard Middle School. In addition to his parents, he is survived by his twin brother Avery Charles Watson; paternal grandparents Charlie and Nettie Watson; and maternal grandfather Richard Spatz and grandmother Vicky McClure. Memorial services were held March 6 at the Gateway Community Church. Memorial contributions may be made to Mobile Hope or the International Dyslexia Association. [Loudoun Funeral Chapel]
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Obituaries Daniel Wetherell Dan was born on December 26, 1934 in Joplin Missouri, the first of four children to Harold Eugene and Sarah Kathleen Wetherell. He was the first to attend college in his family. He spent one year at Bethany Nazarene College, later renamed Southern Nazarene University, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma before enlisting in the United States Air Force. Between his time in Oklahoma City and reporting for duty in the Air Force, Dan proposed to and married Shirley June Browder. They were married on September 16, 1955 and remained married for 65 years, until her passing on May 13, 2021. While serving in the Air Force Dan was assigned as a nuclear weapons technician at Westover Air Force Base near Springfield Massachusetts. Dan rose to the rank of Technical Sergeant during his three years in the Air Force. In 1958 Dan and Shirley moved to Stillwater Oklahoma with their young daughter, Donna. Dan attended Oklahoma State University, earning his degree in Electrical Engineering in 1961. Upon graduation Dan accepted a job with General Electric and the young family moved to Utica NY and Burlington VT before settling in Lynchburg in 1962. Their second child, Mark was born in Lynchburg about 24 hours after they arrived there. He and Shirley had their third child, Edward in 1966. Dan worked for General Electric for the next 24 years earning his Masters Degree in Physics and being awarded four patents during that time. Dan was always curious and pursued his interests vigorously. In addition to his master’s degree, he attended vocational school at night to learn automobile engine repair and maintenance, carpentry, brick masonry and electrician skills, becoming a licensed master electrician. Dan was active in the Church of the Nazarene in Lynchburg, serving on the church board and using his trade skills to help build a new sanctuary and fellowship hall. In 1985, Dan took early retirement from GE and moved with Shirley to Oakton VA where he went to work for the Central Intelligence Agency. Dan worked in clandestine services for several years and finished his career working for the Science & Technology Division with a focus on nuclear non-proliferation, retiring from the CIA in 2001. In June of 2016 Dan and Shirley sold their home in Oakton and moved to the Ashby Pond retirement community in Ashburn VA where he lived until his passing. Dan is preceded in death by his son Mark (Joanna) Wetherell and his wife Shirley. He is survived by his daughter Donna (Rickey) Creel, his son Edward (Sheila) Wetherell, his brother Steve, sisters Gayle and Marylin, 7 grandchildren-Travis, Mary Catherine, Thomas, Elizabeth, Berkeley, Braxton and Shyloh and 4 great-grandchildren. Dan was a principled and loving husband, father and grandfather. He lived his values and maintained his faith in God every day of his adult life.
Isaiah Owens, Sr.
Age 86 of Hamilton, Virginia Isaiah Owens, Sr., of Hamilton, VA departed this life on February 28, 2022, just shy of his 87th birthday. Born March 14, 1935, in Leesburg, VA to the late John Garrett and Joanna (Mitchell) Owens, he was a lifelong resident of Loudoun County and served as Air Police in the Air Force. He was known for his repair and body work skills which led to owning of the Round Hill Texaco in Round Hill, VA with his brother, William. When not at the shop, you would find him at Circleville Farm in Lincoln, VA where he was the Farm Manager for 49 years before retiring in 2014. He is survived by his son, Lynwood Owens, Jr. (Catherine); two grandsons, Patrick Aviles and Isaiah Owens of Lovettsville, VA; six brothers, Johnnie Owens, Joseph (Betty Ann) Owens, Oliver (Henrietta) Owens, Donald (Candis) Owens, all of Hamilton, VA, Irving Owens of Round Hill, VA and Walter (Fannie) Owens of Sterling, VA.; and a host of nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Bettina (Shorts) Owens and three brothers, James, William and Lewis Owens. A viewing will be held on Saturday, March 12, 2022, at 10 a.m. followed by funeral services at 11 a.m. at Mt. Zion United Methodist Church, 250 W. Virginia Avenue, Hamilton, VA 20158. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name to Mt. Zion Hamilton UMC. If sending flowers, please deliver to the church the morning of the service. Interment – Pleasant Valley Cemetery, Hamilton, VA Arrangements By: Lyles Funeral Service, Serving Northern Virginia, Eric S. Lyles, Director 1-800388-1913
To place an obituary, contact Susan Styer: 703-770-9723 sstyer@loudounnow.com
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MARCH 10, 2022
THINGS to do
Loco Living
LOCO LIVE Live Music: Robert Mabe
Friday, March 11, 6 p.m. Flying Ace Distillery and Brewery, 40950 Flying Ace Lane, Lovettsville Details: flyingacefarm.com Mabe is a stellar banjo player and singer/ songwriter from the hills of North Carolina. His unique style covers a wide range of music from bluegrass to jazz, Irish and roots tunes.
Live Music: Def Leggend
Friday, March 11, 7 p.m. Tally Ho Theater, 19 W. Market St., Leesburg Details: tallyhotheater.com Dallas-based Def Leggend provides an authentic Def Leppard experience with all the sights and sounds fans expect. Tickets are $15.
Live Music: Dave Goodrum
Saturday, March 12, 1 p.m. Creek’s Edge Winery, 41255 Annas Lane, Lovettsville Details: creeksedgewinery.com Goodrum brings acoustic music at its most fun-covering a range of genres from the ‘70s, ’80s, ’90s and today.
Live Music: Eric Chandler
Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now
The Cat in the Hat, played by Caroline Clegg, leads the ensemble cast in the finale of “Seussical Jr.” during a recent rehearsal at the Franklin Park Art Center.
Arts for All Returns to the Stage with ‘Seussical’ BY JAN MERCKER jmercker@loudounnow.com
Anything’s possible. It’s a running theme in the beloved musical “Seussical” and a guiding philosophy at the Loudoun-based Arts for All organization. For directors and performers, “Seussical Jr.” is the perfect show as the troupe makes its return to the Loudoun stage after a two-year hiatus. The local production runs March 18-20 and March 25-27 at the Franklin Park Arts Center. It’s a triumphant return for an organization that has brought kids and adults of all abilities together for more than three decades. “It’s been a fun process. It’s been nice to see people get back in the groove. It’s also been nice to welcome our new actors into the wonderful world of Arts for All,” said the show’s director Amanda Barr, a longtime Arts for All volunteer, now a
program specialist for Loudoun’s Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Services. Barr originally selected “Seussical” as Arts for All’s spring 2020 production, and actors had been rehearsing since the fall of 2019. But, as it did for many community organizations, the pandemic brought things to a screeching halt. “We were one day from tech week. I had to stand in front of all of them and say we were canceling it. My son cried all the way home,” said Arts for All board President Jody Rodgers, whose son Ian plays Horton the Elephant. But the group has bounced back, and while some actors have moved on, many actors have returned to their roles. Ian Rodgers, known for his gorgeous singing voice, is back as Horton. For Jody Rodgers, it’s another chance to blow away new and returning audience members with the cast’s tremendous talent and joy and fab-
ulous costumes and sets. “A lot of people think, ‘I’m just going to go to this play because I’m supporting people with disabilities.’ But it’s life-changing for the audience. It’s really good,” Rodgers said. Arts for All was created as VSA in 1989 to provide performance opportunities for people with disabilities but has a long history of welcoming cast members without disabilities. “So often these are the adolescents and adults who don’t get real representation in the arts … That’s why this organization was started,” Rodgers said. Ian, now 26, has been involved with the group since age 10 and has earned several starring roles, including a knockout performance as Tigger in “Winnie the Pooh.” “I’m excited and I’m a little nervous,” SEUSSICAL continues on page 21
Saturday, March 12, 2 p.m. Flying Ace Distillery and Brewery, 40950 Flying Ace Lane, Lovettsville Details: flyingacefarm.com Chandler plays an unexpected mix of great tunes from a range of genres: country, Americana, hip-hop and beyond.
Live Music: Juliet Lloyd
Saturday, March 12, 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: Will Shepard
Saturday, March 12, 2 p.m. Harvest Gap Brewery, 15485 Purcellville Road, Hillsboro Details: harvestgap.com It’s a fun brewery afternoon with singer/ songwriter Will Shepard.
Live Music: Summer and Eric
Saturday, March 12, 5 p.m. Lost Barrel Brewing, 36138 John Mosby Highway, Middleburg Details: lostbarrel.com This DMV duo plays a fun, eclectic and unexpected mix of music from the past and present, as well as original tunes.
Live Music: Born Cross-Eyed
Saturday, March 12, 5:30 p.m. B Chord Brewing, 34266 Williams Gap Road, Round Hill Details: bchordbrewing.com Northern Virginia’s favorite Grateful Dead tribute band consists of some of the region’s most talented jam musicians. The Windowpanes, Mike McCabe and Sol Roots open. Tickets are $10.
THINGS TO DO continues on page 22
MARCH 10, 2022
Seussical continued from page 20 said Lily Coonan of Purcellville who reprises her role as an “It’s Possible” dancer in the 2022 production after being cast in 2020. Lily, who will celebrate her 15th birthday during the show’s second weekend of performances, said one of the upsides of doing the show again after months of rehearsals in 2020 is the familiarity cast members have with the ins and outs of the show. “I know all the songs,” she said with a smile. The 2022 production also brought in new talent, with around half the cast returning from 2020, Barr said. Ben Verhey of Round Hill is new to the show—and to Arts for All—and is having a blast. Ben, a 9-year-old, fourth-grader at Round Hill Elementary School, and his parents found out about Arts for All after he did a theater camp at Franklin Park last summer. Ben is cast as an octopus and a Wickersham monkey in the show and has decided that singing and acting are his jam. “I’ve been really enjoying it,” Ben said. “I’ve been to a couple of plays, and it’s more fun to do it than it is to watch it.” Barr, now 26, also started her involvement with Arts for All at age 9 and encourages performers of all abilities to get involved as a fun and enriching experience. “It’s a great experience. … Arts for All is an openly available organization where you can come and learn about the community…It’s one of the best things I’ve ever done,” Barr said. Barr volunteered as stage manager for the company during high school and returned to Loudoun to work for PRCS after
LOUDOUNNOW.COM graduating from Radford University with a degree in theater performance. She now has two teen volunteers from Woodgrove High School as her stage managers. Zoe Joseph and George Hughes are Woodgrove juniors with a passion for theater and volunteering. Joseph started out as an actor for Arts for All and wanted to keep contributing to the organization even as her busy schedule kept her off stage. “I still wanted to be involved,” Joseph said. For Hughes, the play is a family affair; his dad Nigel plays the Grinch and brother Tom plays JoJo in the production. After a crazy two years for students of all abilities, helping an enthusiastic group of performers return to the stage has been rewarding. “We’re kind of starting to get back to normal and that’s a great thing,” Hughes said. For Barr, the same reasons she chose “Seussical” in 2020 have made it the perfect show to come back to post-pandemic, with its message of friendship, loyalty, and community. “Something in my gut and in my heart was telling me we needed to do ‘Seussical’ because of its representation,” Barr said. “I feel like those characters represent our actors so well. They can do whatever they want. They can be whoever they want to be.” n Arts For All’s production of Seussical Jr. runs March 18-20 and March 25-27 at Franklin Park Arts Center. Friday and Saturday shows take place at 7 p.m. Sunday shows take place at 3 p.m. Advance tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for students, children and seniors. Add $5 at the door. For more information and to check out Ian Rodgers’ promotional video, go to artsforallloudoun.org.
Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now
From left, Zoe Skuce as Mayzie LA Bird and Caroline Clegg as the Cat in the Hat perform a scene during during a recent rehearsal of “Seussical Jr.” at the Franklin Park Art Center.
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THINGS to do
MARCH 10, 2022
BEST BETS
continued from page 20
Live Music: Melissa Quinn Fox Band
Saturday, March 12, 6 p.m. Vanish Farmwoods Brewery, 42245 Black Hops Lane, Lucketts Details: vanishbeer.com Fox returns to Vanish with her signature high-energy blend of rock and country.
Live Music: The Front Guys
Saturday, March 12, 7-9 p.m. The Barns at Hamilton Station, 16804 Hamilton Station Road, Hamilton Details: thebarnsathamiltonstation.com It’s an intimate Nashville-style singer’s round with Tommy Bouch of Delta Spur and Rowdy Tolbert of The Rowdy Ace Band. Tickets are $12.50.
Live Music: Pool Boys
Saturday, March 12, 7 p.m. Crooked Run Fermentation, 22455 Davis Drive #120, Sterling Details: crookedrunbrewing.com Enjoy an evening of alt rock from the 90s and early 2000s with The Pool Boys.
Live Music: Eyes of the Nile Iron Maiden Tribute
Saturday, March 12, 8 p.m. Tally Ho Theater, 19 W. Market St., Leesburg Details: tallyhotheater.com DMV-based Eyes of the Nile delivers Iron Maiden favorites with intensity and emotion. Tickets are $15.
Live Music: Junior Bryce Band
Saturday, March 12, 8 p.m. Monk’s BBQ, 251 N. 21st St., Purcellville Details: monksq.com An in-demand saxophone sideman in the DC region for years, Bryce has launched his own ensemble serving up groove and hippie funk with some jazz and R&B flavor.
DEF LEGGEND Friday, March 11, 8 p.m. Tally Ho Theater tallyhotheater.com
Stompers. They’ll be serving up favorite Irish drinking songs, Irish fiddle tunes and songs from the Pogues, Dubliners and other classic Irish groups.
Live Music: The Smithereens
Thursday, March 17, 7 p.m. Tally Ho Theater, 19 W. Market St., Leesburg Details: tallyhotheater.com The New Jersey-based power pop band had a string of hits in the 80s are are still going strong. Tickets are $39.50.
LOCO CULTURE Tales and Ales Storytelling Show
Friday, March 11, Old Ox Brewery, 44652 Guilford Drive, Ashburn Details: novatalesandales.com This month’s installment of Loudoun’s homegrown storytelling show includes a powerhouse lineup of seven storytellers sharing extraordinary true stories. Pre-show festivities start at 6:15 p.m. The show begins at 7 p.m. Tickets are $18.
‘Steel Magnolias’
Live Music: Matthew Mills
Sunday, March 13, 1 p.m. Creek’s Edge Winery, 41255 Annas Lane, Lovettsville Details: creeksedgewinery.com Kick back with awesome acoustic tunes from guitar virtuoso Matt Mills.
Live Music: Rook Richards
Sunday, March 13, 2 p.m. 8 Chains North Winery, 38593 Daymont Lane, Waterford Details: 8chainsnorth.com Rising pop country star Rook Richards has a Nashville music deal and a robust DMV following.
Live Music: Caveman TV
Thursday, March 17, 7-10 p.m. Monk’s BBQ, 251 N. 21st St., Purcellville Details: monksq.com Caveman TV features Derek Kretzer and Kevin Johnson of the Plate Scrapers, Dwayne Brooke of the Woodshedders and Will Spaulding of Plank
Saturday, March 12, 7 p.m. and Sunday, March 13, 2 p.m. StageCoach Theatre Company, 20937 Ashburn Road, Suites 115 and 120, Ashburn Details: stagecoachtc.com StageCoach presents the beloved play set in Truvy’s beauty salon in Chinquapin, Louisiana with characters including wisecracking Truvy, the town’s rich curmudgeon, Ouiser, eccentric millionaire Miss Clairee and local social leader, M’Lynn, whose daughter Shelby is about to marry a “good ole boy.” Performances run weekends through March 27. Tickets are $25.
Hillsboro Frozen in Time Benefit Gala
Saturday, March 12, 7-10 p.m. Hillsboro Old Stone School, 37098 Charles Town Pike, Hillsboro Details: oldstoneschool.org It’s an evening of art, jazz and libations to raise funds for relief efforts in Ukraine. The event showcases nine regional artists and features the Quartetto Loco Jazz Band, hors d’oeuvres, specialty spirits and gourmet chocolates. Tickets are $35 per person, $60 per couple.
Waterford Concert Series: Alessio Bax
Sunday, March 13, 4-6 p.m. Waterford Old School, 40222 Fairfax Street, Waterford
BORN CROSS-EYED Saturday, March 12, 5:30 p.m. B Chord Brewing Company bchordbrewing.com
Details: waterfordconcertseries.org Noted pianist Alessio Bax performs work from Bach, Beethoven, Granados, Chopin and Ravel. Tickets are $35.
HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS Lost Rhino St. Paddy’s Day Party
Saturday, March 12, 2-5 p.m. Lost Rhino Brewing Company 21730 Red Rum Drive, Ashburn Details: lostrhino.com
THE SMITHEREENS WITH MARSHALL CRENSHAW Thursday, March 17, 8 p.m. Tally Ho Theater tallyhotheater.com Start your celebration early with the release of Lost Rhino’s Shooter McMunn’s Irish Stout, food specials and music from Something’s Brewing.
History on Tap: Feelin’ Lucky? Thursday March 17, 6:30-8 p.m. Old Ox Brewery, 44652 Guilford Drive, Ashburn Details: oldoxbrewery.com Loudoun Museum’s History on Tap series is back with true tales from local history, including raucous parties, strikes of good fortune and strings of bad luck. Old Ox will serve an optional Luck of the Irish menu. Dinners must be reserved by March 13. n
MARCH 10, 2022
Bond denied continued from page 3 Messiah Foundation International. Rodriguez testified that Urquan Syed is the president of the organization’s U.S. chapter. The organization has chapters across the globe, including an underground faction in Pakistan, where the Syeds are from. Rodriguez said that the day after Chemlali Goode was killed, Furqan Syed, his wife, and their young child drove to St. Louis. Furqan Syed asked his brother to send him $500 on Zelle and to book him a hotel room near the airport. According to the testimony, the family then drove back to Loudoun County because they could not obtain the required COVID-19 PCR tests to fly out of the country. Then, on Jan. 3, Furqan Syed told his brother that their mother in Pakistan was sick, and asked for a plane ticket to visit her. He flew out that day. He was only able to get a rapid test, so had to fly to Germany to wait for results from a PCR test to come back before continuing on to Dubai.
Leadership awards continued from page 3 The other finalists in this year’s Young Professionals category were Zack Carpenter, Leadership Loudoun; Monti Mercer, HHMI Janelia Research Campus; and Chrystina Nguyen, Rhythmic Technologies. The finalists in the executive leader category were Paul Bice, BCT – The Community’s Bank; Susan Mitchell, Guardians of Honor; and Bruce Rahmani, Falcon Heating & Air Conditioning. And the finalists in the nonprofit executive category were Nikki Daruwala, Loudoun Literacy Council; Lisa Kimball, The Arc of Loudoun; and Nene Spivy, Northern Virginia Science Center Foundation. “Loudoun is blessed with so many leaders who give generously of their time, energy, and resources to make this our nation’s finest community to grow a business or raise a family. The Chamber is proud to honor a select few of these outstanding leaders, while celebrating the examples of generosity, commitment and sacrifice they provide, through these Community Leadership Awards,” Loudoun Chamber President and CEO Tony Howard said. n
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Furqan Syed’s attorney, John Boneta, said his client was on his way back to Loudoun County from Dubai when he was arrested last week. Rodriguez also said that a dispatcher confirmed that Syed had called authorities to say that he was returning. “The question is, what evidence do they have? He came back … the evidence shows that he contacted Loudoun County and said he was coming back,” Boneta said. There is no physical evidence available that Furqan Syed killed Chemlali Goode, although investigators are waiting for several items to be tested in a lab. Rodriguez said that Furqan Syed had visited the victim’s neighborhood for several days leading up to the killing. On Dec. 27, 2021, cell phone data and neighbors’ Ring camera footage shows he drove into the neighborhood and drove out. Thirty minutes later, he walked in. The next day, he walked in and watched the residence while pacing. The following day, he drove in again. Rodriguez said the suspect also made contact with the victim’s daughter. At about 7:30 p.m. Dec. 30, the victim was shot three times.
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“These are very serious, very dangerous charges. This is a woman who was shot three times in her own home,” Burton argued. In arguing to have his client released on bond pending his trial, Boneta said Syed has lived in the area for 11 years, is married with a child, has no criminal record, and works multiple jobs. He also said that detectives hadn’t confirmed that it was Syed on the camera footage, only that it was someone who looked like him. Judge Lorrie Sinclair Taylor denied the bond motion. She scheduled a preliminary hearing for April 26 on charges of first-degree murder, entering a residence with intent to commit murder, shooting in the commission of murder, and three counts of use of a firearm in commission of a felony. Abdul Waheed, 54, of Leesburg, has been charged with being an accessory before and after the murder. Loudoun County prosecutors say Waheed drove Syed to and from Goode’s home. He also is being held without bond and is scheduled for a preliminary hearing April 26. n
Presents
Alessio Bax
Join us for an exciting program from this internationally celebrated pianist including music by Bach, Beethoven, Chopin, and Ravel.
Sunday, March 13th, 4 PM Waterford Old School 40222 Loudoun St., Waterford, VA Tickets: $35 adult, $15 student Seating is limited: book early! Major credit cards accepted
For Tickets & Info, visit www.waterfordconcertseries.org
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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NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC OF AN APPLICATION BY VIRGINIA ELECTRIC AND POWER COMPANY FOR APPROVAL AND CERTIFICATION OF ELECTRIC TRANSMISSION FACILITIES: AVIATOR 230 KV LINE LOOP AND AVIATOR SUBSTATION CASE NO. PUR-2022-00012 On February 2, 2022, Virginia Electric and Power Company (“Dominion” or “Company”) iled with the State Corporation Commission (“Commission”) an application (“Application”) for approval and certiication of electric transmission facilities in Loudoun County, Virginia. Dominion iled its Application pursuant to § 56-46.1 of the Code of Virginia (“Code”) and the Utility Facilities Act, Code § 56-265.1 et seq. Through its Application, the Company proposes to complete the following, which is collectively referred to as the “Project:” •Construct a new approximately 0.9-mile overhead 230 kV double circuit transmission line loop on new 100-foot-wide right-of-way by cutting existing 230 kV overhead Poland Road-Shellhorn Line #2137 (Brambleton-Poland Road Line #2183) at Structures #2137/133-134 (Structures #2183/5857), resulting in (i) 230 kV Aviator-Shellhorn Line #2137, and (ii) 230 kV Aviator-Poland Road Line #2221 (“Aviator Loop”). The 0.9-mile proposed route of the Aviator Loop includes removal of one existing overhead span of double circuit 230 kV line located entirely within existing right-of-way between existing Structures #2137/133-134 (Structures #2183/58-57), and installation of a new overhead double circuit 230 kV line in new right-of-way for approximately 0.1 miles from existing Structure #2137/133 (Structure #2183/58) to a proposed new triple circuit steel pole located along Route 50 across from the existing Poland Road Substation (“Aviator Junction”), and for approximately 0.06 miles from the Aviator Junction to existing Structure #2137/134 (Structure #2183/57) at Poland Road Substation; and •Construct a new 230-34.5 kV substation located on land purchased by the Company from a retail electric service customer (“Customer”) along Willard Road (“Aviator Substation”) and upgrade line protection at the Company’s existing Poland Road Substation and future Sojourner Switching Station. According to the Application, Dominion proposes the Project in order to provide service requested by the Customer, to maintain reliable service for the overall growth in the area and to comply with mandatory North American Electric Reliability Corporation Reliability Standards. Dominion further states that the Project is necessary in order to assure that the Company can maintain and improve reliable electric service to the load area surrounding the Company’s existing Poland Road Substation (“Poland Road Load Area”) in Loudoun County. The Company states that the Customer has requested retail electric service from Dominion to support the future build-out of its three data center campuses (Campuses A, B, and C) totaling 485 megavolt amperes (“MVA”) of power. Dominion further states that it plans to serve the Customer’s build-out of Campus A (totaling 140 MVA) and build-out of Campus B (totaling 105 MVA) from the existing Poland Road Substation, and to serve the Customer’s future Campus C (totaling 240 MVA) from the proposed Aviator Substation; however, the Company will be providing temporary bridging power of up to 36 MVA until Aviator Substation is built. The Company further states that the proposed Project is needed to meet the load requirements of the Customer’s Campus C, along with future load growth in the Poland Road Load Area. According to Dominion, the proposed Aviator Substation will initially be constructed with four 230 kV, 4000 amps circuit breakers in a ring bus arrangement; two 230 kV line terminals; ive 230- 34.5 kV transformers (four 112 MVA and one 84 MVA); ten 34.5 kV distribution circuits, and other associated equipment. The Company asserts that, in total, the proposed Aviator Substation will be designed to accommodate future growth in the area with a build-out of six 230 kV, 4000 amps circuit breakers; two additional 230 kV line terminals; and up to twenty-ive 34.5 kV distribution circuits. Additionally, Dominion states that a new control enclosure will be installed to accommodate the protective relay and communications cabinets. According to Dominion, the total area required to build the Aviator Substation is approximately 12.481 acres. The Company states that the desired in-service date for the Project is September 30, 2024. The Company represents that the estimated conceptual cost of the Project (in 2021 dollars) utilizing the proposed route is approximately $79.25 million, which includes approximately $24.1 million for transmission related work, approximately $53.4 million for substation-related work, and approximately $1.75 million for distribution-related work. Description of Routes for the Proposed Project Overhead Route 1A The Proposed Route (Overhead Route 1A) of the Aviator Loop is approximately 0.90 miles in length. Beginning from the cut-in of existing 230 kV overhead Poland Road-Shellhorn Line #2137 (Brambleton-Poland Road Line #2183) at Structures #2137/133-134 (Structure #2183/58-57), the route heads southeast for about 0.32 mile, paralleling the northern side of Route 50 and crossing Willard Road. This portion of the route runs parallel to Route 50 and is parallel to and overlaps with portions of existing Dominion distribution line rights-of-way and a Loudoun County Sanitation Authority right-of-way. After crossing Willard Road, the route pivots slightly to the northeast for 0.06 miles before turning north through a wooded area behind industrial businesses for approximately 0.18 miles. The route continues northwest for about 0.07 mile before turning north and paralleling the east side of Willard Road for the remaining 0.21 miles before terminating at the substation location. The 0.9-mile Proposed Route includes removal of one existing overhead span of double circuit 230 kV line located entirely within existing right-of-way between existing Structures #2137/133-134 (Structures #2183/58-57), and installation of a new overhead double circuit 230 kV line in new right-of-way for approximately 0.1 mile from existing Structure #2137/133 (Structure #2183/58) to a proposed new triple circuit steel pole located along Route 50 across from the existing Aviator Junction, and for approximately 0.06 miles from the Aviator Junction to existing Structure #2137/134 (Structure #2183/57) at Poland Road Substation. This route effectively removes the existing diagonal span of Lines #2137/#2183 across Route 50, and replaces them with a new perpendicular crossing of Route 50. The Proposed Route will be constructed on new right-of-way supported by nine double circuit poles and one triple circuit pole with a minimum structure height of approximately 100 feet, a maximum structure height of approximately 125 feet, and an average proposed structure
MARCH 10, 2022
height of approximately 105 feet. These heights are based on preliminary conceptual design, do not include foundation reveal, and are subject to change based on inal engineering design. Overhead Alternative Route 1B Overhead Alternative Route 1B is approximately 0.58 mile long. Beginning from the cut-in of existing 230 kV overhead Poland Road-Shellhorn Line #2137 at Structure #2137/133 on the north side of Route 50, the route heads northeast for 0.05 miles across an undeveloped Chantilly Crushed Stone (“CCS”) parcel. The route then heads east for 0.13 mile and turns north for an additional 0.08 miles following the parcel boundary of a CCS-owned parcel that is part of active business operation. Continuing east, the route continues for 0.13 miles across an undeveloped CCS parcel and Willard Road. Heading into the proposed substation parcel, the route turns to the north and continues for 0.19 miles before terminating at the proposed Aviator Substation. This route would not remove the existing diagonal span of Lines #2137/#2183 across Route 50. Overhead Alternative Route 1B will be constructed on new right-of-way supported by seven double circuit poles and one double circuit two-pole structure with a minimum structure height of approximately 90 feet, a maximum structure height of approximately 115 feet, and an average proposed structure height of approximately 99 feet. These heights are based on preliminary conceptual design, do not include foundation reveal, and are subject to change based on inal engineering design. All distances, heights, and directions are approximate. A sketch map of the proposal accompanies this notice. A more detailed map may be viewed on the Commission’s website: scc.virginia.gov/pages/Transmission-Line-Projects. A more complete description of the Project also may be found in the Company’s Application. The Commission may consider a route not signiicantly different from the route described in this notice without additional notice to the public. The Commission has taken judicial notice of the ongoing public health issues related to the spread of the coronavirus, or COVID-19. In accordance therewith, all pleadings, briefs, or other documents required to be served in this matter shall be submitted electronically to the extent authorized by 5 VAC 5-20-150, Copies and format, of the Commission’s Rules of Practice and Procedure (“Rules of Practice”). Conidential and Extraordinarily Sensitive Information shall not be submitted electronically and should comply with 5 VAC 5-20-170, Conidential information, of the Rules of Practice. Any person seeking to hand deliver and physically ile or submit any pleading or other document shall contact the Clerk’s Ofice Document Control Center at (804) 371-9838 to arrange the delivery. Pursuant to 5 VAC 5-20-140, Filing and service, of the Rules of Practice, the Commission has directed that service on parties and the Commission’s Staff in this matter shall be accomplished by electronic means. Please refer to the Commission’s Order for Notice and Hearing or subsequent Hearing Examiner’s Ruling for further instructions concerning Conidential or Extraordinarily Sensitive Information. The Commission entered an Order for Notice and Hearing in this proceeding that, among other things, scheduled public hearings on Dominion’s Application. On August 30, 2022, at 10 a.m., the Commission will hold a telephonic hearing, with no witness present in the Commission’s courtroom, for the purpose of receiving the testimony of public witnesses. On or before August 26, 2022, any person desiring to offer testimony as a public witness shall provide to the Commission (a) your name, and (b) the telephone number that you wish the Commission to call during the hearing to receive your testimony. This information may be provided to the Commission in three ways: (i) by illing out a form on the Commission’s website at scc. virginia.gov/ pages/Webcasting; (ii) by completing and emailing the PDF version of this form to SCCInfo@ scc.virginia.gov; or (iii) by calling (804) 371-9141. This public witness hearing will be webcast at scc.virginia.gov/pages/Webcasting. On August 31, 2022, at 10 a.m., either in the Commission’s second loor courtroom located in the Tyler Building, 1300 East Main Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219, or by electronic means, the Commission will convene a hearing to receive testimony and evidence related to the Application from the Company, any respondents, and the Commission’s Staff. Further details on this hearing will be provided by subsequent Commission Order or Hearing Examiner’s Ruling. Electronic copies of the Application and other supporting materials may be inspected at: www.dominionenergy.com/aviator. An electronic copy of the Company’s Application also may be obtained by submitting a written request to counsel for the Company, Vishwa B. Link, Esquire, McGuireWoods LLP, Gateway Plaza, 800 East Canal Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219, or vlink@mcguirewoods.com. On or before May 6, 2022, any person or entity wishing to participate as a respondent in this proceeding may do so by iling a notice of participation at scc.virginia.gov/clk/eiling. Those unable, as a practical matter, to ile a notice of participation electronically may ile such notice by U.S. mail to the Clerk of the State Corporation Commission, c/o Document Control Center, P.O. Box 2118, Richmond, Virginia 23218-2118. Such notice of participation shall include the email addresses of such parties or their counsel, if available. The respondent simultaneously shall serve a copy of the notice of participation on counsel to the Company. Pursuant to 5 VAC 5-20- 80 B, Participation as a respondent, of the Rules of Practice, any notice of participation shall set forth: (i) a precise statement of the interest of the respondent; (ii) a statement of the speciic action sought to the extent then known; and (iii) the factual and legal basis for the action. Any organization, corporation, or government body participating as a respondent must be represented by counsel as required by 5 VAC 5-20-30, Counsel, of the Rules of Practice. All ilings shall refer to Case No. PUR-2022-00012. For additional information about participation as a respondent, any person or entity should obtain a copy of the Commission’s Order for Notice and Hearing. On or before August 12, 2022, any interested person may submit comments on the Application by following the instructions found on the Commission’s website: scc.virginia.gov/casecomments/Submit-Public-Comments. Those unable, as a practical matter, to submit comments electronically may ile such comments with the Clerk of the Commission at the address listed above. All such comments shall refer to Case No. PUR-2022-00012. Any documents iled in paper form with the Ofice of the Clerk of the Commission in this docket may use both sides of the paper. In all other respects, except as modiied by the Commission’s Order for Notice and Hearing, all ilings shall comply fully with the requirements of 5 VAC 5-20-150, Copies and format, of the Rules of Practice. The Company’s Application, the Commission’s Rules of Practice, the Commission’s Order for Notice and Hearing, and other documents iled in the case may be viewed at: scc.virginia. gov/pages/Case-Information. VIRGINIA ELECTRIC AND POWER COMPANY
MARCH 10, 2022
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MARCH 10, 2022
Legal Notices TOWN OF LOVETTSVILLE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON THE PROPOSED SCHEDULE OF FEES FOR FISCAL YEAR JULY 1, 2022 - JUNE 30, 2023 Pursuant to Sections 15.2-107, 15.2-1427, 15.2-2111, 15.2-2119, 15.2-2122, and 15.2-2143 of the Code of Virginia, 1950, as amended, the LOVETTSVILLE TOWN COUNCIL will hold a public hearing on March 24, 2022 at 6:30pm in the Town Council Chamber, 6 E. Pennsylvania Avenue, Lovettsville, Virginia at which time the public shall have the right to provide written and oral comments on the Town’s proposed schedule of fees for fiscal year July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023. All persons desiring to speak will be given an opportunity to do so at this meeting. Copies of the proposed budget are available on the Town website and are available for review at the Town Hall between the hours of 8:30am and 4:30pm weekdays or by special appointment, holidays excepted. Call 540-822-5788 for more information or visit www.lovettsvilleva.gov. In the event the meeting is cancelled, the public hearing will be convened at the next regular scheduled meeting at the same time and place.
GENERAL FUND TAXES
Type
Tax/Fee Rate
Real Estate Tax (per $100 assessed value)
$0.178 $0.1727 (Elderly/Disabled Real Estate Tax discount is 100% for qualifying residents)
Meals Tax
3% on gross receipts
Cigarette Tax
$0.40 per pack
Transient Occupancy Tax
5% of gross receipts
Vehicle License Tax
$25.00 per car/truck/motorcycle
Town Facilities Use Permit $50.00 Out-of-Town Rate
$25.00 In-Town Rate $50.00 Out-of-Town Rate
Preliminary/Final Site Plan
$1,000.00 FOR FIRST ACRE + $50.00 FOR EACH ADDITIONAL ACRE
Conditional Use Permit*
$350.00
Subdivision/Site Plan Exception*
$100.00 PER SECTION VARIED
Comprehensive Plan Amendment
$2,500.00
Occupancy Permit
$75.00
Bond Reduction (PER REDUCTION)
$100.00
Bond Release
$150.00
VDOT Street Acceptance
$150.00
Variance/Appeal*
$100.00
Subdivision/Site Plan Engineering & Legal Consultant Review Deposit Fee**
$3,000.00
Comprehensive Plan (Document)
$40.00
Notes: * Additional charges for advertising and/or adjacent property owner notification will be billed to the applicant. (Applicants are responsible for all base fees as well as any engineering or Town Attorney Review Costs) ** As required by Section 30-37 of the Town Code for subdivision construction drawings and development site plans. If actual costs differ from amount deposited, the excess shall be paid by the applicant to the Town or difference refunded to the applicant, as applicable. Taxes are authorized by VA Code 58.1. Fees are authorized by Code of Virginia §15.2-2241 and §15.2-2286. All civic, charitable, and religious organizations having non-profit status are exempt from application fees.
FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA) REQUESTS
BUSINESS, PROFESSIONAL AND OCCUPATIONAL LICENSE Type
APPLICATION FEES
Tax/Fee Rate
Cost for staff time to research and respond to FOIA requests will be based on the hourly rate of the appropriate staff member(s) responding to the request and range from approximately $20/hour to $50/ hour.
All Businesses Except gross receipts over $20,000.00
Fee of $30.00 for gross receipts up to $20,000.00 and a Tax of $0.17/$100
In-Town Contractors
Fee of $30.00 for gross receipts up to $20,000.00 and a Tax of $0.16/$100 for gross receipts over $20,000.00
Photocopies
$0.25 per page (8 ½ x 11)
Out-of-Town Contractors
No charge for work valued under $25,000.00 annually; Fee of $30.00 plus a Tax of $0.16/$100 for gross receipts over $25,000.00
Documents Printed In-House
$2.00 per page (Black/White 24” x 36”) $3.00 per page (Color 24” x 36”) Documents Sent to Printer Due to Volume or Size Actual Cost
Audio CDs and Flash Drives
$5.00 per copy
APPLICATION FEES Type
Fee Rate
Other surcharges may include: Type
Fee Rate
For more information, see the Town of Lovettsville Freedom of Information Act Policy, Request Form, and Schedule of Fees.
Zoning Permit – Minor
$75.00
Zoning Permit – Major
$150.00
Pool Permit (Fence Included)
$75.00
Zoning Determination Letter
$75.00
Demolition Permit
$0.00
Rezoning/Zoning Map Amendment*
$750.00 FOR FIRST ACRE + $250.00 FOR EACH ADDITIONAL ACRE
In-Town Water User Rate (per 1,000 gallons):
$9.23 $9.51
In-Town Sewer User Rate (per 1,000 gallons):
14.66 $15.10
Proffer Amendment
$500.00
In-Town Sewer Only Customers:
Fixed rate of $43.68 $44.99
Ordinance Amendment**
$150.00
Out-of-Town Water/Sewer Customers Charged:
150% of In-Town rate
Home Occupancy Permit
$75.00
Penalty for Late Payment:
10%
Zoning Certificate
$75.00
Sign Permit – Permanent (UP TO 3 SIGNS)
$75.00
Bulk Water Sales:
$25.00 / 1,000 gallons, plus $75.00 transaction fee
Sign Permit – Temporary (PER SIGN)
$25.00
Virginia Department of Health Waterworks
Preliminary Plat
$300.00 + $15.00 PER LOT
Technical Assistance Fund:
Preliminary Plat Amendment
$250.00
Water Cutoff Charge or Turn On Charge:
Final Plat
$500.00 + $25.00 PER LOT
Final Plat Amendment
$250.00
Fire Sprinkler Fee for facilities with a fire sprinkler
Boundary Line Adjustment
$250.00
Minor Subdivision Plan/Plat
$300.00 + $15.00 PER LOT
Preliminary Site Plan
$1,000.00 + $50.00 PER ACRE
Final Site Plan
$1,000.00 FOR FIRST ACRE + $50.00 FOR EACH ADDITIONAL ACRE
UTILITIES FUND FEES AND CHARGES Type
system connected to Town Water:
Fee Rate
Set by VDH $30.00 $6.67 / Month
Availability Tap refund processing charge:
$50.00
Fats, Oils and Grease Permit Fee:
$25.00
CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
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Legal Notices AVAILABILITY FEES, MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE USAGE AND METER FEES
FEES AND CHARGES Flushing Hydrant Maintenance Fee:
$500.00 per year
Off-Hours Service Charge
$75.00
Frye Court Service Tax District (per $100 of assessed value exclusive of improvements)
$0.275
WATER AND SEWER RATES TABLE Meter Size (inches)
Minimum Billed $ (Month)
Minimum Billed Usage (gallons)
Sewage Rate Per 1,000 gallons Over Minimum
Water Rate Per 1,000 gallons Over Minimum
$47.81 $49.20(residential) 5/8 & 3/4
$58.11 $59.20 (non-residential)
1
$68.41 $69.20
1.5
$78.71 $79.20
2
$89.01 $89.20
3
$99.31 $99.20
4
$109.61 $109.20
$9.23 $9.51
2,000
$14.66 $15.10
Max. Allowable Usage (GPD)
Water Availability Fee***
Wastewater Availability Fee***
Meter Fee
5/8”
500
$11,721.00 $12,893.00
$17,220.00 $18,942.00
$250.00
3/4”
750
$17,581.00 $19,339.00
$25,830.00 $28,413.00
$250.00
1”
1,250
$29,303.00 $32,233.00
$43,049.00 $47,354.00
Cost of meter + $20.00
1-1/2”
2,500
$58,605.00 $64,467.00
$86,099.00 $94,709.00
Cost of meter + $20.00
2”
4,000
$93,768.00 $103,145.00
$137,758.00 $151,534.00
Cost of meter + $20.00
3”
8,000
$187,535.00 $206,289.00
$275,515.00 $303,067.00
Cost of meter + $20.00
4”
12,500
$293,024.00 $322,326.00
$430,492.00 $473,541.00
Cost of meter + $20.00
Failure to Upgrade Meter Fines First Offense
$100.00
Second Offense
$200.00
Third Offense
WATER AND SEWER INSPECTION FEES Type
Meter Size
$300.00 Water Theft Fines
Fee
First Offense Fine
$500.00
Main Inspection Fee
$1.90 x linear foot of Water Main + $2.15 x linear foot of Sewer Main + $300.00 for Beneficial Use Inspection + $300.00 Final Inspection
Lateral Inspection Fee
$150.00 per connection- charged with Zoning Permit for the building
Line Record Drawing Fee
$1,350.00 + $1.25/linear foot of Water Main + $1.50/linear foot of Sewer Main
Reward for Successful Notification and Capture of Water Theft Town Water and Sewer Account Holders
$100.00 Credit
Water Modeling Fee
Engineering Reimbursable- cost to update water model to include new water lines and provide required information to VDH for their review and approval; component of Engineering Deposit.
Non-account Holders
$50.00 Check
Hydrant Flow Test Fee
$100.00 + provide needed testing equipment
Lateral Upgrade Fee
$100.00 + Cost of meter (when existing connection upgrades to a larger size meter)
DEPOSITS FOR NEW WATER AND SEWER ACCOUNTS Water
Sewer
Residential (within Town limits)
Type of Connection
$50.00
$50.00
Residential (outside Town limits)
$100.00
$100.00
Non-Residential
$100.00
$100.00
$2,205.00 $2,426.00
$2,205.00 $2,426.00
Water and Sewer Connection Fees
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE MIDDLEBURG PLANNING COMMISSION The Middleburg Planning Commission will hold a public hearing beginning at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, March 28, 2022 to hear public comments on the following:
Second Offense Fine
$1,000.00
Third/Subsequent Offense Fine
$2,000.00
Notes: *** Upgrades from a smaller meter size will equal the difference between the new availability fee and the current availability worth of the existing meter size. These actions are authorized by the Code of Virginia §15.2-2111 - §15.2-2143 & §15.2-2111 - 15.22119 $30.00 bank charge for all returned checks
3/10 & 3/17/22
Public Notice Vacancy The Town of Leesburg Residential Traffic Commission
Comprehensive Plan Amendment 22-01 The Planning Commission will review and consider approval, and recommendation to the Town Council for adoption, an amendment to Chapter IV (Population & Housing) of the Town of Middleburg Comprehensive Plan 2019 pertaining to ShortTerm Rentals.
The Town of Leesburg is soliciting resumes and letters of interest to appoint a Residential Traffic Commission member. The term of this appointment will run from the date of appointment until December 31, 2024.
The hearing will take place at the Town Office, 10 W. Marshall Street, Middleburg, Virginia. The proposed Comprehensive Plan Amendment may be reviewed online at www.middleburgva.gov/313/ Public-Hearings or in the Town Office from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, holidays excepted. Questions may be directed to Deputy Town Manager Will Moore at (540) 687-5152 or by email at wmoore@middleburgva.gov
The Residential Traffic Commission meets the first Monday of the month. All meetings are held in the Lower Level Conference Room at Town Hall, 25 W. Market Street, Leesburg, VA 20176. Additional information is available by contacting Eileen Boeing, Clerk of Council, during normal business hours (Mon – Fri 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.) at 703-771-2733 or eboeing@leesburgva.gov, or on the Town of Leesburg Website: https://www.leesburgva.gov/government/boards-commissions/residential-traffic-commission
The Town of Middleburg strives to make its hearings accessible to all. Please advise of accommodations the Town can make to help you participate in the hearing. 3/10 & 3/17/22
Please submit your letter of interest and/or professional resume addressed to the Clerk of Council. All materials should either be delivered or mailed to the Town’s official address at Town of Leesburg, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia 20176 or emailed to the Clerk of Council at eboeing@leesburgva.gov. 3/10/22 & 3/17/22
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MARCH 10, 2022
Legal Notices TOWN OF LEESBURG NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
$40 $75 per sign. Sign Permits/Sign Plans
TO CONSIDER AMENDMENTS TO THE DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING AND ZONING FEE SCHEDULE
$100 $250 Comprehensive Sign Plan
Pursuant to Sections 15.2-107, 15.2-1427, 15.2-2204, and 15-2.2286 of the Code of Virginia, 1950, as amended, the LEESBURG TOWN COUNCIL will hold a public hearing on TUESDAY, MARCH 22, 2022, at 7:00 p.m. in the Town Council Chambers 25 W. Market Street, Leesburg VA 20176 at which time, the public shall have the right to present oral and written testimony on an ordinance amending and re-adopting the Department of Planning and Zoning Fee Schedule. The proposed fee schedule is as follows: New fees are shown in bold and underlined. Fees for which an amendment or increase is proposed show the current fee amount in strikethrough and the new fee amount in bold and underline.
Town of Leesburg Department of Planning & Zoning Fee Schedule
Temporary Use
$250 $150
Temporary Portable Storage Units
$30 for residential use
Business Special Event
$50 for non-residential use
Variances
$350
Appeals
$350
Proffer Determination
$150
Appeals to Council (Proffers)
$500
Special Exceptions/Flood plain, BZA
$250
Zoning Certification Letters
$150
Zoning Re-inspections – Residential – Subdivision
$200
Zoning Re-inspections – Commercial – Occupancy
$250
Zoning Re-inspections – Residential – Occupancy
$50
Home Occupation Permit
$30 $50
Parking In-Lieu Fee (H-1 Old & Historic District Only)
As required by Ordinance 2015-O-0022
Zoning Ordinance Text Amendment
$5,000.00
Board of Architectural Review
Revised through March 22, 2022
Land Use and Zoning Applications $32,000.00 per more than 10 acres (first through third submissions) Rezoning
$16,000.00 per up to 10 acres (first through third submissions) $1,200.00 per each submission over three submissions
Concept Plan and/or Proffer Amendments
$10,000.00 $10,000.00 per buildings over 10,000 square feet (first through third submissions)
Special Exceptions
$7,500.00 per buildings up to 9,999 square feet (first through third submissions)
$25
Council review of Comprehensive Sign Plan
$25
Appeal of BAR Decision to Council
$25
New Construction of One or More Primary Buildings
$500
New Construction of One or More Accessory Structures
$50
Additions to Existing Primary Buildings
$100
Additions to Existing Accessory Structures
$25
Alterations to Existing Primary or Accessory Structures
$25
Demolition of an Existing Structure
$50
Administrative Review Applications
No fee
$1,000.00 for non-profits
Signs, Administrative Review
$10 per sign
$500.00 for accessory structures to dwellings
Referral Review for Legislative Applications
No fee
Signs, Public Hearing
$10 per sign
$3,000.00
Administrative Amendments to Minor Special Exceptions
$1,000.00
Town Plan Amendment
$5,600.00 plus cost of advertising
Commission Permit
$1,000
Zoning Ordinance Modifications or Waivers per Code Section Modified
$1,250
Public Hearing Sign Deposit
$25 $10 per sign to be posted1 $10,000 for 0-5 acres $10,000 plus an additional $50 per acre for >5 acres
Zoning $350 $450 New residential construction $30 $50 per residential addition or exterior alteration $30 per accessory structure $50 Home Day Care Zoning Permits
BAR review of Comprehensive Sign Plan
$1,200.00 per each submission over three submissions
Minor Special Exception
Annexation Fee
$35 per temporary sign
$300 $400 New non-residential construction $50 $100 per non-residential addition or exterior alteration $50 $75 Commercial Use/Fit Up $50 Demolition (Residential or Commercial)
Crescent Design District
1 2
Building Design and/or Material Review fees for By-right Development (Old H-2)
$500
Zoning Modification Fees for By-right Development
$1,250
Current $25 refundable deposit to become a $10 fee. Current fee amount is $7,378.52; fee subject to annual CPI adjustment per Ord. 2015-O-002.
Copies of the ordinance and additional information regarding the amended fee schedule are available at the Department of Planning & Zoning located on the 2nd floor of Leesburg Town Hall, 25 W. Market Street, Leesburg VA 20176 during normal business hours (Mon.-Fri., 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.), or by contacting Michael Watkins, Zoning Administrator, via email at mwatkins@leesburgva.gov, or via telephone at 703737-7920. 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. 3/10 & 3/17/22
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Legal Notices
PAGE 29
TOWN OF MIDDLEBURG, VIRGINIA NOTICE TO REPAIR DANGEROUS BUILDING Owner: Property Address: Parcel ID:
MAUREEN J. LUCEY 110 NORTH JAY STREET MIDDLEBURG, VA 20117 538 39 0209
Middleburg Property Owner,
Route 7/287 Interchange Improvements Virtual Design Public Hearing Thursday, April 14, 2022, 6 p.m. https://www.loudoun.gov/Route7-287Interchange Find out about planned improvements at the Route 7 (Harry Byrd Highway) and Route 287 (Berlin Turnpike) interchange in the Town of Purcellville. The project includes lengthened and widened ramps, turn lanes, and expanded turn and through lanes along Route 287 between Eastgate Drive and the westbound Route 7 entrance/exit ramps. It also includes expanded pedestrian access to the Washington & Old Dominion (W&OD) Trail and traffic signal modifications. The public hearing will be held as a virtual/online meeting. Information for accessing and participating in the virtual meeting is available at https://www.loudoun.gov/Route7-287Interchange. The project team will make a short presentation beginning at 6 p.m. and answer questions for about an hour after the presentation. Review project information and meeting details on the webpage above or during business hours at the Loudoun County Department of Transportation and Capital Infrastructure’s Office, 101 Blue Seal Drive SE, Suite 102, Leesburg, VA 20177. Please call ahead at 703-737-8624 or TTY/TDD 711 to make an appointment with appropriate personnel. Pursuant with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and 23 CFR 771, an environmental document in the form of a Programmatic Categorical Exclusion (PCE) was prepared as per an agreement between the Federal Highway Administration and the Virginia Department of Transportation. In compliance with the National Historic Preservation Act, Section 106 and 36 CFR Part 800, information concerning the potential effects of the proposed improvements on properties listed in or eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places will be available with the PCE. Give your comments during the meeting, or by April 29, 2022, via the comment form on the project website, by mail to Mr. Gary Pozzouli, Loudoun County, 101 Blue Seal Drive, Suite 102, Leesburg, VA 20177 or by email to dtci@loudoun.gov. Please reference “Route 7/287 Interchange Improvements” in the subject line. Loudoun County ensures nondiscrimination and equal employment in all programs and activities in accordance with Title VI and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. If you require an accommodation for any type of disability or need language assistance in order to participate in the virtual public hearing on April 14, 2022, please call 571-258-3282 (TTY/TDD 711). Advance notice is requested. Loudoun County CRCP: 2022-0001 State Project: 6007-053-177, P101, R201, C501 UPC: 111664 Federal: STP-5A01 (959), NHPP-5B01 (192) Following the meeting, a recording will be placed on the website at https://www.loudoun.gov/Route7-287Interchange. 4/07/22 03/10/22
The Town Council has declared the townhouse at 110 North Jay Street as a dangerous building per Chapter 38 of the Code of the Town of Middleburg, Virginia (“Town Code”). The Town of Middleburg has inspected the building on the above referenced property and found it to be a danger to public health, safety and welfare pursuant to Town Code and Section 15.2-906 of the Code of Virginia (“Code of Virginia”). You are hereby notified that this townhouse is a DANGEROUS BUILDING and must be repaired within 30 days. Failure to comply with this order to repair the dangerous conditions will result in the Town of Middleburg taking action to repair such conditions through its own agents or employees in accordance with the provisions of Town Code and the Code of Virginia, as the Town deems appropriate, with the cost or expenses thereof chargeable to you as the owner of the property. Any charges that remain unpaid shall constitute a lien against the property as provided for in the Town Code and the Code of Virginia. In addition to such charges, you will also be subject to a civil penalty not to exceed $1000. A copy of this notice, along with the inspection report detailing the dangerous conditions, is on file in the Middleburg Town Office at 10 West Marshall St, Middleburg, VA 20117. For more information, contact Deputy Town Manager Will Moore at (540) 687-5152 or by email at wmoore@middleburgva.gov 3/3 & 3/10/22
Public Notice Vacancy The Town of Leesburg Thomas Balch Library Commission The Town of Leesburg is soliciting resumes and letters of interest to appoint a Thomas Balch Library Commission member. The term of this appointment will run from the date of appointment until December 31, 2022. The Thomas Balch Library Commission meets the second Wednesday of the month at 7:00 p.m. All meetings are held at the Thomas Balch Library Meeting Room, 208 West Market Street, Leesburg, VA 20176. Additional information is available by contacting Eileen Boeing, Clerk of Council, during normal business hours (Mon – Fri 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.) at 703-771-2733 or eboeing@leesburgva.gov, or on the Town of Leesburg Website: https://www.leesburgva.gov/government/boards-commissions/thomas-balch-library-commission. Please submit your letter of interest and/or professional resume addressed to the Clerk of Council. All materials should either be delivered or mailed to the Town’s official address at Town of Leesburg, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia 20176 or emailed to the Clerk of Council at eboeing@leesburgva.gov. 3/3 & 3/10/22
Public Notice Vacancy The Town of Leesburg Parks & Recreation Commission The Town of Leesburg is soliciting resumes and letters of interest to appoint a Parks & Recreation Commission member. The term of this appointment will run from the date of appointment until December 31, 2022. The Parks & Recreation Commission meets the third Monday of each month at 7:00 p.m. All meetings are held at the Ida Lee Park Recreation Center, 60 Ida Lee Drive NW, Leesburg, VA 20176. Additional information is available by contacting Eileen Boeing, Clerk of Council, during normal business hours (Mon – Fri 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.) at 703-771-2733 or eboeing@leesburgva.gov, or on the Town of Leesburg Website: https://www.leesburgva.gov/government/boards-commissions/parks-and-recreation-commission. Please submit your letter of interest and/or professional resume addressed to the Clerk of Council. All materials should either be delivered or mailed to the Town’s official address at Town of Leesburg, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia 20176 or emailed to the Clerk of Council at eboeing@leesburgva.gov. 3/3 & 3/10/22
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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 `Tuesday, March 22, 2022, at 6:00 p.m. to consider the following: ZRTD-2021-0009 45449 EAST SEVERN WAY
(Zoning Conversion in the Route 28 Taxing District) DIV DAVIN DULLES One LLC of West Palm Beach, Florida, has submitted an application to rezone approximately 9.35 acres from the PD-IP (Planned Development-Industrial Park) zoning district under the 1972 Zoning Ordinance, to the PD-IP zoning district under the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance, in order to permit the development of 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 0.45 (up to 0.60 by Special Exception). The subject property is located within the Route 28 Taxing District, partially within the FOD (Floodplain Overlay District), partially within the AI (Airport Impact) Overlay District outside of but within one (1) mile of the Ldn 60 aircraft noise contours, and contains steep slopes. The subject property is approximately 9.35 acres in size and is located east of Sully Road (Route 28), west of Atlantic Boulevard (Route 1902) and on the south side of East Severn Way (Route 847) at 45449 E Severn Way, Sterling, Virginia in the Sterling Election District. The subject property is more particularly described as PIN: 030-15-5049. 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 compact, pedestrianoriented environments with opportunities for a mix of Residential, Commercial, Entertainment, Cultural, and Recreational uses. At a recommended FAR of 1.0.
ZOAM-2022-0001 GROUND-MOUNTED SOLAR ENERGY GENERATION FACILITIES (Zoning Ordinance Amendment)
Pursuant to Virginia Code §§15.2-2204, 15.2-2285, and 15.2-2286, and a Resolution of Intent to Amend adopted by the Board of Supervisors on February 15, 2022, the Planning Commission hereby gives notice of proposed amendments to the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance (“Zoning Ordinance”) in order to establish new, and clarify and revise, regulations and definitions to address a January 13, 2022, Attorney General Opinion (AGO) that impacts the County’s ability to regulate the location of ground-mounted solar energy generation facilities. The amendment proposes revisions to Article 5, Additional Regulations and Standards, Section 5-100, Accessory Uses and Structures, Article 8, Definitions, and such other Articles, Sections, Subsections, and provisions of the Zoning Ordinance as necessary to implement and maintain consistency with the foregoing amendments or as otherwise necessary to correct typographical errors, section and subsection numbering, and formatting within, update cross-references to, and further clarify the requirements of, the above-mentioned section(s) of the Zoning Ordinance. The proposed text amendments under consideration include, without limitation, the following: Amendments to Article 5 Section 5-101, Additional Regulations and Standards, Permitted Accessory Uses and Structures, Subsection (A), Residential, and Subsection (B), Commercial and Industrial: • Establish new, and clarify and revise, existing, regulations to add “Ground-mounted solar facility” and “Ground-mounted solar energy generation facility” to the lists of permitted accessory uses and structures when serving only the uses located on the same lot where the ground-mounted solar facility or ground-mounted solar energy generation facility is located. Amendments to Article 8, Definitions: • Establish new, and clarify and revise, the existing definition of “Electric Generating Plant and Transmission Facility” to specify that the definition of the use includes the term “Utility Generating Plant or Transmission Facility” and includes “ground mounted solar facilities,” “ground-mounted solar energy generation facilities,” and other types of solar generating panels as contemplated by Virginia Code §56-594 that serve lots other than the lot where a ground-mounted solar energy generation facility is located. The public purposes of these amendments are to achieve the purposes of zoning as set forth in Virginia Code §§15.2-2200 and 15.2-2283, including, without limitation, furtherance of the public necessity, convenience, general welfare and good zoning practice and facilitating the creation of a convenient, attractive and harmonious community.
DOAM-2021-0003 PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE FACILITIES STANDARDS MANUAL (Development Ordinance Amendment)
Pursuant to Virginia Code §§15.2-2204 and 15.2-2253 and a Resolution of Intent to Amend adopted by the Board of Supervisors (“Board”) on December 7, 2021, notice is hereby given of proposed amendments to the Loudoun County Facilities Standards Manual (FSM) in order to establish new, and revise, clarify, and/ or delete existing, regulations in order to 1) revise existing standards to provide for traffic data collection by the County for traffic studies submitted with legislative land development applications and public school land development applications subject to Section 5-666 of the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance; and 2) revise existing traffic study standards to be consistent with the December 2018 Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) “Administrative Guidelines for the Traffic Impact Analysis Regulations.” These amendments will propose revisions to Chapter 4 of the FSM, and such other Chapters, Sections, Subsections, and provisions of the FSM as necessary to fully implement and maintain consistency with the
foregoing amendments, or as otherwise necessary to correct typographical errors, section and subsection numbering, and formatting within, update internal cross-references to, and further clarify the requirements of, the above-mentioned Chapters, Sections, Subsections, and provisions of the FSM. The proposed text amendments include, without limitation, the following: Amendments to FSM Section 4.200, Transportation Planning: • Revise existing General standards for Traffic Studies to clarify which land development applications require traffic studies; clarify the requirements for the FSM Traffic Study Scoping Agreement and conducting traffic counts; and establish that the County shall collect and provide traffic data for the traffic study. • Revise existing Pre-submission Requirements, Policies, and Procedures to clarify the requirements and materials to be submitted for the Traffic Study Scoping Meeting and FSM Traffic Study Scoping Agreement. • Revise existing Post-Submission Requirements, Policies, and Procedures to clarify the requirements for the FSM Traffic Study Checklist Acceptance Form and the County’s review of traffic studies. • Revise existing Content of Traffic Studies standards (to be renamed Standards for Traffic Studies) to clarify requirements for Project Description; Traffic Study Area and Traffic Count Locations; Data Collection (to be performed by the County); Trip Generation, Internal Capture, and Pass-By Trips; Traffic/Trip Distribution; Traffic Volume Projections (for sites generating less than 500 or 500 or more peak hour trips); Level of Service (LOS) Analysis; Minimum Roadway/Intersection LOS Standards; Safety Locations; Trip Reduction Factors; Bicycle, Pedestrian, and Transit Facilities; and Access Management and Circulation. The public purposes of these amendments are to achieve the purposes listed in Sections 15.2-2200 and 15.2-2240 of the Code of Virginia and to assure the orderly subdivision of land and its development.
SPEX-2021-0054 FIVEASH MDOD HOME (Special Exception)
Michael and Jodi Fiveash of Leesburg, Virginia, have submitted an application for a Special Exception to permit the construction of a single-family detached dwelling unit, agricultural barn, well, and drain field in the Highly Sensitive Area of the MDOD (Mountainside Development Overlay District). This application is subject to the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance. Because the proposed use would require land disturbing activity in the Highly Sensitive Area of the MDOD, it is listed as a Special Exception under Section 4-1603(A). The subject property is located partially within Highly Sensitive and Sensitive Areas of the MDOD, partially within the FOD (Floodplain Overlay District) minor floodplain, and has areas with Steep Slopes (very steep and moderately steep slopes). The subject property is approximately 21.67 acres in size and is located east of Charlestown Pike (Route 9), west of Sagle Road (Route 687), and on the north side of Shady Lane at 12903 Shady Lane, Purcellville, Virginia in the Catoctin Election District. The subject property is more particularly described as PIN: 544-47-8875. 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, Agricultural Supportive, and limited Residential uses at a recommended density of up to one dwelling unit per 20 acres or one dwelling unit per five acres equivalent for optional Residential clustering in large-lot subdivisions.
WITHDRAWAL (EARLY) REQUEST FOR WITHDRAWAL OF LAND BELONGING TO ELIZABETH MERCEDES SOMERSET FARM, LLC FROM THE BEAVERDAM VALLEY AGRICULTURAL AND FORESTAL DISTRICT Pursuant to Virginia Code §15.2-4314 and the Beaverdam Valley Agricultural and Forestal District Ordinance, Elizabeth Mercedes Somerset Farm, LLC, of Middleburg, Virginia, has submitted an application to withdraw a 32.69-acre parcel from the Beaverdam Valley Agricultural and Forestal District. The subject property is located on the southwest side of Foxcroft Road (Route 626) and southeast of Unison Road (Route 630), at 21133 Foxcroft Road, Middleburg, VA 20117, in the Blue Ridge Election District. The subject property is more particularly described as PIN: 593-15-3226. The Beaverdam Valley Agricultural and Forestal District currently has a 4-year period that will expire on June 19, 2022, and is subject to a subdivision minimum lot size of 50 acres. In accordance with Section 15.2-4307 of the Code of Virginia, the application may be examined by request at the Loudoun County Government Center, Information Desk, 1st Floor, 1 Harrison Street, S.E., Leesburg, Virginia, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, or by calling 703-777-0246 (option 5) to request hard copies or electronic copies or electronically at: https://www.loudoun.gov/adac (2-7-2022 ADAC Meeting under Agendas and Bylaws). Documents also may be viewed and downloaded electronically 72 hours in advance of the public hearing at: www.loudoun.gov/pc (for Public Hearing documents, follow the link for Public Hearings Packet).
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Legal Notices SIDP-2021-0004 WHITMAN COMMERCIAL VA TIRE & AUTO SIGN PLAN (Sign Development Plan)
Branch Rail LLC of Fairfax, Virginia, has submitted an application for a Sign Development Plan to request alternative sign regulations for permitted signs in order to 1) modify Sign Category (4)(h) Auto Service Station with respect to: a) maximum aggregate sign area, b) maximum number of signs, and c) maximum area of any one sign; and 2) to modify Section 5-1204(D)(7)(m) De Minimis Signs with respect to the maximum area of any one sign. The subject property is being developed pursuant to ZMAP2016-0023, ZCPA-2016-0017, SPEX-2016-0067, and ZMOD-2019-0035, Whitman Property South. It is located in the PD-CC(CC) (Planned Development – Commercial Center (Community Center)) zoning district under the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance. This application is subject to the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance, and pursuant to Section 5-1202(E) alternative sign regulations for permitted signs may be requested with the submission of a Sign Development Plan. The subject property is approximately 1.53 acres in size and is located east of Gum Spring Road (Route 659), south of Braddock Road (Route 620), in Chantilly, Virginia, in the Dulles Election District. The subject property is more particularly described as PIN: 207-39-0065. The area is governed by the policies of the Loudoun County 2019 General Plan (Transition Policy Area – Lower Foley (Transition Community Center Place Type)), which designate this area for Retail, Service Commercial, Entertainment Commercial, and Civic uses at a recommended Floor Area Ratio (FAR) of up to 0.3.
ZOAM-2021-0003 AMEND THE REVISED 1993 LOUDOUN COUNTY ZONING ORDINANCE TO TO ESTABLISH NEW FEES FOR CERTAIN TRAFFIC DATA COLLECTION AND TRAFFIC WARRANT STUDIES, AND INCORPORATE THE EXISTING LAND DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION FEE SCHEDULE AS A NEW APPENDIX (Zoning Ordinance Amendment)
Pursuant to Virginia Code §§ 15.2-107, 15.2-2204, and 15.2-2286(6) and a Resolution of Intent to Amend adopted by the Board of Supervisors on December 7, 2021, the Planning Commission hereby gives notice of proposed amendments to the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance (“Zoning Ordinance”) in order to establish new fees that reflect cost recovery for a County managed traffic data collection and warrant study program for legislative land development applications and public school land development applications subject to Section 5-666 of the Zoning Ordinance throughout the County, and incorporate the existing land development application fee schedule (for land development application types that fall under the Zoning Ordinance) into the Zoning Ordinance as a new appendix. The amendment proposes revisions to Section 6-402 (Fees), and such other Articles, Sections, Subsections, and provisions of the Zoning Ordinance as necessary to implement and maintain consistency with the foregoing amendments or as otherwise necessary to correct typographical errors, section and subsection numbering, and formatting within, update cross-references to, and further clarify the requirements of, the above-mentioned section(s) of the Zoning Ordinance. The proposed text amendments under consideration include, without limitation, the following: Amendments to Article 6 Development Process and Administration, Section 6-402 Fees: • Establish that fees to be paid upon the filing of each application specified in the Zoning Ordinance and for traffic data collection and warrant studies associated with legislative land development applications and public-school land development applications subject to Section 5-666 are set forth in new Appendix A to the Zoning Ordinance. Amendments to Establish New Appendix A: • Establish new Appendix A, to be titled “Land Development Application Fees”. • Incorporate existing fees for the filing of the applications specified in the Zoning Ordinance from the current land development application fee schedule into new Appendix A. • Establish new fees under new Appendix A for traffic data collection and preparation of traffic warrant studies associated with legislative land development applications and public-school land development applications subject to Section 5-666. The public purposes of these amendments are to achieve the purposes of zoning as set forth in Virginia Code §§ 15.2-2200 and 15.2-2283, including, without limitation, furtherance of the public necessity, convenience, general welfare and good zoning practice, and facilitating the creation of a convenient, attractive and harmonious community.
CMPT-2021-0010, ZMOD-2021-0041 & SPMI-2021-0005 INTERCONNECTION SUBSTATION (Commission Permit, Zoning Modification & Minor Special Exception)
Virginia Electric and Power Company of Glen Allen, Virginia, has submitted an application for Commission approval to permit development of an Electric Utility Substation (Distribution) in the PD-IP (Planned Development – Industrial Park) zoning district. This application is subject to the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance and requires a Commission Permit in accordance with Section 6-1101. The modification of Additional Regulations applicable to the proposed Utility Substation is authorized by Minor Special Exception under Section 5-600, Additional Regulations for Specific Uses (the Minor Special Exception application is not subject to consideration by the Planning Commission and requires approval only by the Board of Supervisors), pursuant to which the Applicant requests the following modification(s):
ZONING ORDINANCE SECTION §5-616(D), Additional Regulations for Specific Uses, Utility Substations.
PROPOSED MODIFICATION Eliminate the required Type C Buffer along the southern perimeter, and reduce the minimum percentage of plant units assigned to evergreen trees from 40% to 20% for the Type C Buffer along the western perimeter.
The applicant also requests the following Zoning Ordinance modification: ZONING ORDINANCE SECTION §5-1408(B)(2)(d), Buffering and Screening, General Landscape Provisions, Plant Unit Requirements.
PROPOSED MODIFICATION Increase the maximum percentage of plant units assigned to shrubs from 30% to 70% for the Type 3 Road Buffer along the east perimeter and for the 2 Road Buffer along the north perimeter.
The subject property is located within the Route 28 Taxing District, the AI (Airport Impact) Overlay District, between the Ldn 60-65 and outside of but within one mile of the Ldn 60 aircraft noise contours, partially within the FOD (Floodplain Overlay District) and has areas with Steep Slopes (moderately steep slopes). The subject property is approximately 10.18 acres in size and is located on the west and north sides of Loudoun County Parkway (Route 607), east side of Beaumeade Circle (Route 3037) at 21529 Beaumeade Circle, Ashburn, Virginia, in the Broad Run Election District. The subject property is more particularly described as PIN: 042-15-2579. The area is governed by the policies of the Loudoun County 2019 General Plan (Suburban Policy Area (Suburban Employment Place Type) which designate this area for Office, Production, Flex Space, and Warehousing uses at a recommended Floor Area Ratio (FAR) up to a 1.0. Unless otherwise noted in the above notices, copies of the above-referenced amendments, applications, ordinances, and/or plans and related documents may be examined by request at the Loudoun County Government Center, Information Desk, 1st Floor, 1 Harrison Street, S.E., Leesburg, Virginia, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, or call 703-777-0246 (option 5) to request hard copies or electronic copies, or electronically at www.loudoun.gov/lola. This link also provides an additional opportunity for public input on active applications. To arrange a time to view the file at the Loudoun County Government Center, please email dpz@loudoun.gov or call 703-777-0246, or you may view the file electronically at www.loudoun.gov/lola. For detailed instructions on how to access documents using LOLA, to request that documents be emailed to you, to receive physical copies of documents, or to arrange a time to view the file at the Loudoun County Government Center, please email DPZ@loudoun.gov or call 703-777-0246 (option 5). Additionally, documents may be viewed and downloaded electronically the week before the hearing at www.loudoun.gov/pc. Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, members of the public are encouraged to view the public hearing electronically; however, the Board Room will be open for any members of the public who wish to attend in person with appropriate physical distancing. Planning Commission public hearings are available for viewing on television on Comcast Government Channel 23, Open Band Channel 40, and Verizon FiOS Channel 40, and are livestreamed at loudoun.gov/webcast. 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 Planning Commission, 1 Harrison Street, S.E., 3rd Floor, MSC #62, Leesburg, Virginia 20175, or by e-mail to loudounpc@loudoun.gov. Any individual representing and/or proposing to be the sole speaker on behalf of a citizen’s organization or civic association is encouraged to contact the Department of Planning and Zoning prior to the date of the public hearing if special arrangements for additional speaking time and/or audiovisual 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:
FOREST HAYES, CHAIRMAN LOUDOUN COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
3/3 & 3/10/22
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Legal Notices TOWN OF LEESBURG ADVERTISEMENT FOR BID
TOWN OF LEESBURG ADVERTISEMENT FOR BID
IFB NO. 100313-FY22-02 ANNUAL TREE MAINTENANCE
IFB NO. 100313-FY22-28 ANNUAL STREET MILLING AND RESURFACING
**NOTE: Effective January 1, 2021, all bids and proposals in response to a formal solicitation issued by the Town will be securely received via eVA, the Commonwealth’s eProcurement website. Additionally, at this time the Town is not conducting in-person public bid openings. **
**NOTE: Effective January 1, 2021, all bids and proposals in response to a formal solicitation issued by the Town will be securely received via eVA, the Commonwealth’s eProcurement website. Additionally, at this time the Town is not conducting in-person public bid openings. **
SEALED BIDS to provide the above services WILL BE RECEIVED by the Town of Leesburg, electronically via the Commonwealth’s e-procurement website (www.eva.virginia.gov), UNTIL BUT NO LATER THAN 3:00 P.M. ON THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2022. Bids shall be submitted electronically using the following naming convention: the IFB number and the name of the bidder (i.e. “IFB No. 100313-FY2202_Your Company’s NameU”).
SEALED BIDS to construct the above project WILL BE RECEIVED by the Town of Leesburg, electronically via the Commonwealth’s e-procurement website (www.eva.virginia.gov), UNTIL BUT NO LATER THAN 2:30 P.M. ON THURSDAY, MARCH 24, 2022. Bids shall be submitted electronically using the following naming convention: the IFB number and the name of the bidder (i.e. “IFB No. 31314FY21-34_Your Company’s NameU”).
All questions regarding this bid must be submitted in writing via email to CapitalBidQuestions@ leesburgva.gov until but no later than 5:00 P.M. on Monday, March 21, 2022.
All questions regarding this bid must be submitted in writing via email to CapitalBidQuestions@ leesburgva.gov until but no later than 5:00 P.M. on Monday, March 14, 2022.
Bids will be publicly opened via Microsoft Teams using the eVA e-Procurement website at the due date and time listed above. The bid opening will be livestreamed via Microsoft Teams and made available to the public.
Bids will be publicly opened via Microsoft Teams using the eVA e-Procurement website at the due date and time listed above. The bid opening will be livestreamed via Microsoft Teams and made available to the public.
• To join the meeting and view the video shared by the Town of Leesburg from your computer, please see the following link(s): Click here to join the meeting or https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_ ZDA5NWM2MTMtMzgzMC00OTU2LTg0MzEtZTFiMjZiMzgzNzRj%40thread.v2/0?context =%7b%22Tid%22%3a%22fcff6f14-98e4-4734-bf54-941f010e77b7%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%22 b08c9db0-f4a3-4eed-87b5-2fe32ac2c53a%22%7d • To join the meeting via phone, please see the following dial-in info: • Dial In #: +1 689-218-0588 • Meeting Conference ID: 425 498 710# • For more information: Learn More
• To join the meeting and view the video shared by the Town of Leesburg from your computer, please see the following link(s): Click here to join the meeting or go to: https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_ OTI4YTQ3OWYtMWE5Mi00MGNlLWE4M2YtNTE4ZGI5YmY1ZmMy%40thread.v2/0?con text=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%22fcff6f14-98e4-4734-bf54-941f010e77b7%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a %22b08c9db0-f4a3-4eed-87b5-2fe32ac2c53a%22%7d • To join the meeting via phone, please see the following dial-in info: • Dial In #: +1 689-218-0588 • Meeting Conference ID: 869 853 487# • For more information: Learn More
Work includes structural and other pruning, chipping, tree removal, stump grinding, emergency services such as removing and chipping fallen branches and hazard trees, and all incidentals related thereto. The Town reserves the right to perform all, part, or none of the work.
The work includes, but is not limited to, milling, paving, subcontracting signal loop replacement, traffic control, and all incidentals related thereto. The Town reserves the right to perform all, part, or none of the work.
This is a renewable contract for up to four (4) additional one-year periods. The initial one-year contract is estimated to begin in May 2022.
Bid Documents are available for download from the Town’s Bid Board at http://www.leesburgva.gov/ bidboard. Any addenda issued for this project will be posted on the Town’s Bid Board and eVA (https:// eva.virginia.gov) with a courtesy email to those firms who have registered on the Town’s Bid Board. It is the bidders’ responsibility to provide a correct email address and to be aware of any addenda.
Bid Documents are available for download from the Town’s Bid Board at http://www.leesburgva.gov/ bidboard. Any addenda issued for this project will be posted on the Town’s Bid Board and eVA (https:// eva.virginia.gov) with a courtesy email to those firms who have registered on the Town’s Bid Board. It is the bidders’ responsibility to provide a correct email address and to be aware of any addenda. Renée LaFollette, Director Department of Public Works and Capital Projects
3/10/22
3/10/22
TOWN OF LEESBURG BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS PUBLIC HEARING
TOWN OF HAMILTON PLANNING COMMISSION PUBLIC HEARING Pursuant to Code of Virginia of 1950, as amended, §§ 15.2-2204 and -2286, the Hamilton Planning Commission will hold a public hearing in the Town Office at 53 E. Colonial Highway, Hamilton, Virginia on Wednesday, March 16, 2022, beginning at 7:00 p.m. for the purpose of receiving comment regarding SUP 2021-02, a special use permit application by Progressive Automotive at 11 E. Colonial Highway to replace a rear addition on the existing building with a new service bay and to expand into a 1,700 square-foot portion of the building currently housing a hair salon. Information regarding the special use permit application is available for review by appointment, at the Town Office, 53 E. Colonial Highway, Hamilton, Virginia from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday-Friday, holidays excepted and on the Town website at hamiltonva.gov. All members of the public are invited to present their views on this matter at the public hearing either in person or remotely, by following the instructions on the Town website Meeting Calendar/Livestream Meetings. The Hamilton Planning Commission meeting will begin immediately after the public hearing. If you require any type of reasonable accommodation because of a physical, sensory or mental disability to participate in this meeting, contact Sherri Jackson, Town Treasurer at 540-338-2811. Please provide three business days’ notice. Dan Gorman Chairman
Renée LaFollette, Director Department of Public Works and Capital Projects
3/4 & 3/11
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a public hearing will be held by the Town of Leesburg Board of Zoning Appeals on Tuesday, March 15, 2022 at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers, second floor in the Leesburg Town Hall, 25 W. Market Street, Leesburg, VA 20176, to hear the following item: BZA Case number TLZV-2022-0001 – Timothy and Kelly Pearce, Applicant, requests a Variance of 10.8 feet from the 20 foot rear yard setback for a two story addition to the principal structure. The proposed two story addition would be located 9.2 feet from the rear property line and would incorporate an existing shed into the structure. The residence is located at 2 Pershing Avenue, NW, Leesburg, Virginia, 20176. The property subject to this request is further identified with Loudoun County Parcel Identification Numbers (PIN#); 270104346, 270104443 and 270104850. Full and complete copies of the above-referenced application and related documents may be examined in the Leesburg Department of Planning and Zoning in the Leesburg Town Hall, 25 W. Market Street, 2nd floor, during regular business hours 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, or by calling (703) 771-2766 and asking for Mike Ruddy, Assistant Zoning Administrator or Debi Parry, the Secretary to the Board of Zoning Appeals. At this hearing, all persons desiring to express their views regarding this matter will be heard. Persons requiring special accommodations should contact the Secretary to the Board three days in advance of the meeting date at (703) 771-2765. For TTY/TDD service, use the Virginia Relay Center by dialing 711. 3/3 & 3/10/22
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
MARCH 10, 2022
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Legal Notices
ATTENTION NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS IN LOUDOUN COUNTY
VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR LOUDOUN COUNTY WILLIAM TODD COLE Plaintiff, v. KAREN MAE JOHNSON, Defendant,
TOWN OF LEESBURG NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING SETTING TAX RATES ON REAL PROPERTY AND CERTAIN PERSONAL PROPERTY FOR TAX YEAR 2022 AND AMENDING LEESBURG TOWN CODE, APPENDIX B – FEE SCHEDULE (SECTION 20-22) In accordance with the Code of Virginia of 1950, as amended §§ 15.2-1427, 58.1-3000, 58.1-3007, 58.1-3200 et seq., and 58.1-3500, et seq., the Leesburg Town Council will hold a public hearing on:
Case No. CL-22-544
Tuesday, March 22, 2022, at 7:00 P.M. in the Council Chambers of Town Hall, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, VA.
ORDER OF PUBLICATION THE OBJECT OF THIS SUIT is for the Plaintiff, WILLIAM TODD COLE, to obtain a divorce a vinculo matrimonii from the Defendant, KAREN MAE JOHNSON, on the grounds of the parties having lived separate and apart without cohabitation and without interruption for a period of time in excess of one (1) year. IT APPEARING by Affidavit that the Plaintiff has used due diligence to ascertain the whereabouts of the Defendant without effect, and therefore IT IS HEREBY ORDERED that the Defendant appear before this Court on or before the 15th day of April, 2022 at 2 p.m. and protect her interests herein. IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that the above paragraphs be published once a week for four (4) successive weeks in Loudoun Now, a newspaper of general circulation in Loudoun County, Virginia. Loudoun Now is located 15 North King Street, Suite 101, Leesburg, VA 20176. The Clerk of this Court shall post this Order at the front door of the Courthouse, and shall mail a copy of this Order to the Defendant at her last known address at 1634 Glacier Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80910. 2/17, 2/24, 3/3 & 3/10/22
at which time the public shall have the right to present oral and written testimony on the following proposed amendments to the Leesburg Town Code: • The Town Manager proposes no increase to tax rates for real property for tax year 2022 ($0.184 per $100 of assessed value) • Appendix B – Fee Schedule, Sec. 20-22(a): o Real estate; manufactured or mobile homes = $0.184 per $100 of assessed value o Real estate; tangible personal property for public service corporations (excluding aircraft and motor vehicles) = $0.184 per $100 of assessed value Copies of the proposed ordinance are available for public examination prior to the public hearing in the office of the Clerk of Council at Town Hall, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, VA, during normal business hours. For more information about the ordinance, please contact Clark G. Case, Director of Finance and Administrative Services at 703-771-2720.
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 March 30, 2022 for the following:
RFP No. 100127-FY22-30 CLOSED CAPTIONING SERVICES The Town of Leesburg is soliciting proposals from firms to provide closed captioning services for broadcast and webcast public meetings. For additional information, visit: http://www.leesburgva.gov/bidboard 3/10/22
Applications are available online at www. loudoun.gov/cor. For information or assistance, please contact my office at trcor@ loudoun.gov or 703-737-8557 weekdays 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Robert S. Wertz, Jr. Commissioner of the Revenue Loudoun County Leesburg Office 1 Harrison Street SE First Floor
Persons requiring reasonable accommodations are requested to contact Eileen Boeing, Clerk of Council at 703-771-2733, three days in advance of the public hearing. For TTY/TTD services, use the Virginia Relay Center by dialing 711.
Sterling Office 21641 Ridgetop Circle Suite 100
3/10 & 3/17/22
ORDER OF PUBLICATION COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA VA. CODE § 8.01-316 Case No.:
PUBLIC NOTICE REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP)
Nonprofit organizations seeking exemption from Loudoun County real and/or personal property taxes for the 2023 tax year may file an application with the Office of the Commissioner of the Revenue by the April 1, 2022 deadline. Most charitable nonprofit organizations are not automatically exempt from local property taxes in the Commonwealth, even those that may be exempt from federal income taxes. The filing of an application with the Commissioner of the Revenue is the necessary first step to obtaining a local real estate or personal property tax exemption. Completed applications should be returned to the Commissioner of the Revenue with a postmark by April 1, 2022, for consideration this year. Any exemption, if granted, would be effective January 1, 2023.
JJ045042-01-00
ORDER OF PUBLICATION COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA VA. CODE § 8.01-316 Case No.:
Loudoun Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court
Commonwealth of Virginia, in re Anthony Rodriguez Castro
Commonwealth of Virginia, in re Ezra Zipporah Fisher
Loudoun County Department of Family Services /v. Carlos Barnica, putative father
Loudoun County Department of Family Services /v. Sheila Fisher, mother
The object of this suit is to hold a permanency planning hearing and review of Foster Care Plan pursuant to Virginia Code §§ 16.1-282.1 and 16.1-281 for Anthony Rodriguez Castro.
The object of this suit is to hold a dispositional hearing for review of initial foster care plan pursuant to Virginia Code §§ 16.1-281 and 16.1-278.8 for Ezra Zipporah Fisher.
It is ORDERED that the defendant Carlos Barnica, putative father appear at the abovenamed Court and protect his interests on or before April 4, 2022 at 3:00 pm.
It is ORDERED that the defendant Sheila Fisher, mother appear at the above-named Court and protect her interests on or before April 6, 2022 at 3:00 pm.
3/10, 3/17, 3/24 & 3/31/22
3/10, 3/17, 3/24 & 3/31/22
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.
Blue and gray Shimano KZ2600 mountain bike
Case Number
Recovery Date
SO210021385
12/19/21
Phone: 703-737-8557 Email: trcor@loudoun.gov
JJ043373-03-00
Loudoun Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court
Description
Mailing Address: PO Box 8000, MSC 32 Leesburg, VA 20177-9804
Recovery Location
44327 Misty Creek Pl Ashburn, VA
Phone Number 703-777-0610 3/03 & 3/10/22
3/3, 3/10, 3/17, 3/24 & 3/31/22
ORDER OF PUBLICATION COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA VA. CODE § 8.01-316 Case No.:
JJ045892-01-00
Loudoun Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court Commonwealth of Virginia, in re Luisa Fernanda Chevez Abrego Loudoun County Department of Family Services /v. Elmer Salin, putative father The object of this suit is to hold an adjudicatory hearing pursuant to Virginia Code § 16.1-252 for Luisa Fernanda Chevez Abrego, and; hold a dispositional hearing for review of initial Foster Care Plan pursuant to Virginia Code §§ 16.1-278.2 and 16.1-281 for Luisa Fernanda Chevez Abrego. It is ORDERED that the defendant Elmer Salin, putative father appear at the abovenamed Court and protect his interests on or before March 16, 2022 at 3:00 pm (Adjudicatory) and April 13, 2022 at 3:00 p.m. (Dispositional). 3/3, 3/10, 3/17 & 3/24/22
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
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MARCH 10, 2022
Legal Notices NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON AMENDMENTS TO THE TOWN OF HILLSBORO, VIRGINIA WATER AND WATER SERVICE ORDINANCE AND PROPOSED NEW AMENDED WATER SERVICE FEES. The Hillsboro Town Council will hold a public hearing on March 15, 2022, at 7:00 p.m. at 37098 Charles Town Pike, Hillsboro, Virginia, 20132, and via Zoom at the link listed on the Town’s website, or by telephone, Dial: 1-301-715-8592, Meeting ID: 895 0694 7957, Passcode: 576779 for the purpose of a public hearing on the Proposed Amendments to the Water and Water Services Ordinance, Amended and restated as of December 16, 2019, and on the Proposed Fees for the Hillsboro Water System. Any person interested in the Amendments may appear in person or electronically via Zoom at the public hearing and present his or her views. The Town Council may set time limits on speakers and other rules and procedures for the conduct of this public hearing. Amendments to the water ordinance set rules for mandatory connection to the water system, introduce authority to impose new fees and procedures for connecting to the water system, and strengthen provisions to protect the water system. The full text of the proposed amended ordinance can be found at Hillsborova.gov website and is available to view at Hillsboro Town Hall, 37098 Charles Town Pike, Mondays through Thursdays, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., by appointment, which may be made by calling 540.486.8001, or by emailing jshelton@hillsborova.gov.
TOWN OF HILLSBORO, VIRGINIA NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Proposed Fees for Town of Hillsboro Water System New: Availability Fees, proposed effective date, May 1, 2022 By June 30, Jul. 1, 2022 Meter Size 2022 Mar. 31, 2023 After March 31, 2023 5/8” $0.00 $2,500 $5,000 3/4” $1,500 $3,750 $7,500 1.0” $5,000 $7,500 $15,000 1.5” $12,500 $15,000 $30,000 2.0” $20,000 $22,500 $45,000 New and amended fees shown below proposed effective date, May 1, 2022 Proposed Fees New: Administration Fee New: Connection Fee
$35 Cost + 10%
Increased: Reconnection Fee
$125
No Change: Late Payment Fee
Residential $150 Non-residential $500 10% or $10, whichever is greater
No Change: Violation penalties
$5-$500 each offense
No Change: Additional conservation violation
25% surcharge first violation
Increased: Deposit
50% surcharge subsequent violations Written comments regarding the Amendments may be delivered prior to the public hearing in care of the Mayor at 37098 Charles Town Pike, Hillsboro, Virginia, 20132, or e-mailed to jshelton@hillsborova.gov. All comments received will be presented to the Town Council during the public hearing. TOWN OF HILLSBORO, VIRGINIA Roger L. Vance, Mayor
LOUDOUN COUNTY WILL BE ACCEPTING SEALED COMPETITIVE BIDS FOR: SWIMMING POOL MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR, IFB No. 489782 until prior to 4:00 p.m., local “Atomic Time”, April 5, 2022. Solicitation forms may be obtained 24 hours a day by visiting our web site at www.loudoun.gov/procurement. If you do not have access to the Internet, call (703) 777-0403, M - F, 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. WHEN CALLING, PLEASE LET US KNOW IF YOU NEED ANY REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION FOR ANY TYPE OF DISABILITY IN ORDER TO PARTICIPATE IN THIS PROCUREMENT. 3/10/22
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Opinion We Remember On Tuesday night, the familiar roster of critics who lined up to chastise the School Board shifted their objections from to mask mandates and other COVID restrictions to an actual educational topic, demanding the school division make its priority to address the learning loss suffered by their children during past two years. In Leesburg, a lone member offered one last dismissal of pandemic science before the Town Council voted to end its controversial vaccination mandate. For the past week, visitors to government buildings have entered mask-free. We haven’t seen a new dangerous variant pop up in months. It’s a welcome return to normalcy, or as near as we’re likely to experience for some time. It is possible in the years ahead that we’ll mostly remember the bitter divisiveness that dominated the political debate. That would be a disservice to the remarkable work accomplished by our community leaders under everchanging circumstances. We remember the quick pivot of our hospitality industry to keep restaurants up and running, and customers who supported them with take-out meals and gift card purchases. Frontline workers at our hospitals and elder-care communities and our fire-rescue crews put in extraordinary efforts at significant risks. Teachers adapted on the fly to try to keep their students engaged and learning even when a screen was their only point of connection. Our community charities responded to the need to do more, even as they struggled with limitations to their own fundraising efforts. When the vaccines arrived, there was an army of volunteers helping to get shots in arms at a pace unmatched in most communities. There are countless others who played heroic parts in caring for us and our neighbors during the unprecedented challenges. Last week, the Round Hill Town Council, meeting remotely via Zoom, voted to repeal its State of Emergency declaration, a move that has become somewhat perfunctory among local governments as the pandemic wanes. The deliberation and vote moved quickly, but one councilman asked the members to stop and reflect on the magnitude of the action after holding virtual meetings and having the Town Office closed to the public for much of the past two years. “You realize how big of deal this is? It is pretty cool,” he said. We agree. n
Norman K. Styer, Publisher and Editor nstyer@loudounnow.com
Published by Amendment One Loudoun, LLC
EDITORIAL Renss Greene, Deputy Editor rgreene@loudounnow.com
15 N. King St., Suite 101 Leesburg, VA, 20176
Jan Mercker, Reporter jmercker@loudounnow.com
PO Box 207 Leesburg, VA 20178 703-770-9723
Kara C. Rodriguez, Reporter krodriguez@loudounnow.com Hayley Milon Bour, Reporter hbour@loudounnow.com ADVERTISING Susan Styer, Advertising Manager sstyer@loudounnow.com
Loudoun Now is delivered by mail to more than 44,000 Loudoun homes and businesses, with a total weekly distribution of 47,000.
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LETTERS to the Editor A Major Loss Editor: I am alarmed that Loudoun County’s planning staff now recommends an eastern bypass around Lucketts as part of a proposal to widen Rt. 15 north of Montresor Road. An eastern bypass would likely destroy our historic village as we know it and cripple its ability to be a sustainable rural enclave in an increasingly urban environment. An eastern bypass would be a major loss for public safety and Lucketts’ quality of life because it would: • Jeopardize child safety as it hems in Lucketts Elementary School and the Lucketts Community Center with six lanes of highways (i.e., four directly behind them and the current two lanes of Route 15 in front of them). This would also surround these facilities—which are used by hundreds of young students and patrons most days of the week—with unwelcome traffic noise from the high volume of vehicles that will be roaring by at all hours of the day. And that’s after the months or even years of construction noise that students, staff, and Community Center patrons would be forced to endure while an eastern bypass is built. • Bisect the area between the old and new fire stations, which would likely challenge any future expansion. Furthermore, it is unclear whether the county has examined the impact of an
eastern bypass with its additional traffic signals and roundabouts on 1) the ability of fire trucks and other emergency vehicles to leave the station in a timely manner and 2) the disruption to the bypass traffic flow that would occur when vehicles depart the station for service calls. • Pass through the unpaved parking area of the beloved Old Lucketts Store and the area that is used for expanded vendor space during the store’s special events. With far less space available for parking, the antique shops’ future in Lucketts is directly threatened. • Cut through the Falconaire housing community, including four of its federally- and state- protected wetland and stream conservation easement areas. The county plans to use eminent domain to take land from the community’s common area. Depending on final bypass design, it will take the backyards of up to five homes as well. Planning staff should be informed that the Falconaire’s covenants with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Virginia Department of Environmental Quality require the neighborhood’s homeowner’s association to use any proceeds from eminent domain for additional preservation areas. Because the community is already completed, the county’s taking of the common area’s LETTERS TO THE EDITOR continues on page 39
MARCH 10, 2022
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
Readers’ Poll
THIS WEEK'S QUESTION: Should the U.S. do more to support Ukraine?
LAST WEEK'S QUESTION: With cases in decline, how do you feel about the status of the pandemic?
Emergency ends continued from page 1 into one of its largest-ever undertakings. Schools didn’t reopen after spring break, and wouldn’t fully reopen until fall of 2021 with safety measures such as required masking remained in place. The first COVID-19 fatality in Loudoun was a teacher. By the end of the month, there were 87 known cases of COVID-19 in Loudoun. In the two years that followed, Loudoun County used its emergency powers to launch a whole-of-government fight against the pandemic—ranging from bringing government meetings into the 21st century with electronic public participation, operating to massive testing and vaccination sites, to dispersing millions of dollars in grants to help businesses and nonprofits coping with the pandemic. As of March 8, the Virginia Department of Health reported more than 66,000 cases in Loudoun, and 368 deaths attributable to the disease. The pandemic also thrust into the spotlight one person who previously seldom made headlines: Loudoun Health Department Director Dr. David Goodfriend. He gave elected leaders and the public constant updates and fielded questions from media. And when COVID-19 vaccines came to Loudoun, he was the first person to get a shot, inviting news cameras into the county’s first mass vaccination site to watch. When COVID-19 arrived, Goodfriend said, in some ways public health officials were ready—particularly in Loudoun, home to Dulles Airport where any disease in the world could conceivably come off
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a plane onto U.S. soil. Loudoun has long had plans for health emergencies—and has faced health scares before. “It’s something that we have trained on, and practiced, prepared for and planned for for at least 15, 20 years,” Goodfriend said. “So when anthrax came, we had a plan in place to respond to that. When we invaded Iraq and there was concern that smallpox might be unleashed, we had a plan for smallpox vaccinations if needed—Ebola, H1N1, SARS, but none wound up to be as long lasting and as impactful as COVID has. But it’s the same plans that we had in public health, emergency management, and our healthcare system for each of those that allowed us to be so successful with COVID.” Like those other health scares, in the beginning nobody knew how serious COVID-19 would be. “In this case, definitely we were overcautious, and it turned out to make sense to be cautious with COVID. There were times when we were overcautious and it turned out, like SARS, that it doesn’t become a big pandemic, and then people may think we overreact,” Goodfriend said. He said the key for public health officials in those early days and throughout the pandemic is always open and honest communication with what they do and do not know. The pandemic also came with its own lessons for health officials. Goodfriend said he and his peers had known lower-income and immigrant populations were more at risk—and during the pandemic, he took steps to address that—but were surprised that rural residents were also at higher risk. He said that will be something they learn from, such as learning how to reach out to those communities better.
But overall Loudoun handled the pandemic well, Goodfriend said. “If we look at the data, Loudoun did amongst the best of any jurisdiction during COVID in terms of vaccination rates, infection rates, hospitalization rates, death rates, and it’s great testament to our residents to get us this far,” he said. In addition, Loudoun had an active and trained Medical Reserve Corps, a group of volunteers who the county would lean on heavily as it began providing mass testing and mass vaccinations. COVID could also lead to some lasting changes in behavior—it remains to be seen whether some people will simply make wearing a mask a regular part of their life each winter, for example. It’s happened before. “It’s hard to tell. I know when we came out of H1N1, it really changed how people sneezed. It changed from a lot of people sneezing into their hands to sneezing into their elbows,” Goodfriend said. The Health Department remains watchful. COVID-19 is still around, and new variants could still evolve. Last summer was a lesson—with warm weather and a lull in new infections, people were ready for a break, when the highly infectious Delta variant arrived and started driving up cases in July. Then Omicron partially dodged the vaccines—although vaccines still prevented most people from getting seriously ill, that variant was better able to infect vaccinated people. But new variants have also followed the trend of previous pandemics, becoming more infectious but less deadly. “We don’t know if there will be another change to COVID in the upcoming months where we’re back again to either this past winter or a year ago. We just
know right now we have a respite, and so what I take pains to tell people is, fortunately, this isn’t at the front of what you need to worry about right now,” Goodfriend said. “This is a good time to think about what we’ve gone through in the last two years, how do we move forward, how do we take care of our community.” It’s a time to address the other health effects of a two-year-long pandemic. Goodfriend pointed to a report by the Virginia Office of the Chief Medical Examiner which compared the pandemic years to the average number of deaths that would otherwise have been expected. Only about 80% of those additional deaths were COVID-19 cases. “The rest were just because we were going through this traumatic period of COVID—suicide, substance abuse, other people not getting preventative healthcare leading to an increase in deaths,” Goodfriend said. That was particularly true in Loudoun, with its rapidly growing and changing community. “We have a lot of people coming into our community that may not have a lot of social support. For two years to be isolated is a really challenging time for those individuals,” Goodfriend said. “It’s also an incredibly challenging time for our kids. Two years in the development of a teenager is a real impact on them. So, I think from a mental health standpoint, from a standpoint of people being integrated back into their communities, getting through that isolation, catching up on preventative services, getting access to mental health care, is all going to be a challenge,” he said. The county government is already looking into revising its Human Services Strategic Plan. n
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The Peoples’ Constitution
The Peoples’ Constitution – Russian Invasion of Ukraine BY BEN LENHART
It is often easier to understand the American Constitution by comparing it to current events in other nations. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is a case in point. In broad terms, our Constitution has two main purposes: first, it sets the “rules of the road” for how our governments—state and federal— operate, and, second, it identifies certain fundamental rights held by all Americans, guaranteeing those rights against government intrusion. This article looks at how these issues are being handled in Russia today and compares that to our Constitutional tradition.
Freedom of Speech
Despite having a constitution that theoretically protects free speech, Russia recently passed a law banning Russians from criticizing the invasion of Ukraine, going so far as to ban calling the war a “war.” Violators can be punished by 15 years in prison. In contrast, since the First Amendment was added in 1791 our Constitution has guaranteed freedom of speech with the simple statement: “Congress shall pass no law abridging the freedom of speech.” Despite this broad language, there was a time when Americans were also thrown in jail for criticizing a war. With World War I raging, Congress passed the Espionage and Sedition Acts, banning a wide range of speech including certain statements critical of the war effort. By doing nothing more than peacefully expressing their political views, many people ran afoul of these laws and were sent to jail. This approach was challenged when two of our most famous Supreme Court justices, Oliver Wendell Homes and Louis Brandeis, began questioning the wisdom of jailing people based only on their speech. How, they asked, could a nation that truly believed in free speech punish people merely for peacefully expressing their views, especially when there was no sign that the speech would lead to law violation. In the 1920s, Holmes and Brandeis wrote a series of now famous dissents—in such cases as Abrams and Gitlow—sharply criticizing
the court for failing to protect speech. Their answer to bad speech was more good speech—not banning the speech and jailing the speaker. That was, in their view, the genius of the First Amendment. They demanded that the court respect the “sweeping command, Congress shall pass no law … abridging the freedom of speech.” At the time, they were heavily criticized for their “pro speech/anti-war” stand, but their views carried the day, and for many decades now Americans have been free to express even very strong anti-war views (or anti-government views on any other topic) knowing that this speech is protected by the Constitution.
Freedom of the Press
Russia also has recently muzzled its press, ordering news outlets to publish only news about the “Special Military Operation” that was provided and “blessed” by official sources. In contrast, during the wars in Afghanistan or Iraq, U.S. newspapers relying on the “freedom of press” clause in the First Amendment were overflowing with news stories developed by the paper’s own reporting—not by “official sources”— that were highly critical of many aspects of the wars. In the Pentagon Papers case of 1971, President Nixon sought to stop the press from revealing documents that showed how the government hid important and damaging facts about the Vietnam War from the America people. In ruling against Nixon, and siding with the press, Justice Hugo Black wrote a powerful opinion that rings true today, and that should be required reading in Russia: “In the First Amendment the Founding Fathers gave the free press the protection it must have to fulfill its essential role in our democracy. The press was to serve the governed, not the governors. The Government’s power to censor the press was abolished so that the press would remain forever free to censure the Government. The press was protected so that it could bare the secrets of government and inform the people. Only a free and unrestrained press can effectively expose deception in government. And paramount among the responsibilities of a free press is the duty
to prevent any part of the government from deceiving the people and sending them off to distant lands to die of foreign fevers and foreign shot and shell. In my view, far from deserving condemnation for their courageous reporting, the New York Times, the Washington Post, and other newspapers should be commended for serving the purpose that the Founding Fathers saw so clearly. In revealing the workings of government that led to the Vietnam war, the newspapers nobly did precisely that which the Founders hoped and trusted they would do.” One can only wonder about the impact in Russia today if the Russian people could read stories about the Ukraine war by a truly free Russian press.
Separation of Powers
It is no accident that the Constitution carefully separates and distributes power among the different parts of government. This separation is both horizontal (among the three branches of the federal government) and vertical (between the states and the federal government). In addition to separation of power, each branch is given power to “check and balance” the other branches: the House can defeat a bill passed in the Senate, and vice versa; the President can veto bills passed by both houses of Congress; Congress can override the veto; Congress can impeach the President; and the Supreme Court can overrule actions by Congress or the President. All this separation of powers and “checks and balances” comes at a high cost—it leads to a slow and inefficient government, often resulting in the government being unable to act because it cannot reach consensus. But the Constitution does not impose this cost lightly. Along with it comes a great benefit; the core purpose of separation of powers and checks and balances is to deter tyranny, to ensure that no part of government grows into a dictatorship with enough power to take away our fundamental freedoms and rule the country with an iron fist. This fear may seem far-fetched in America today, but one need only look across the Atlantic to see this fear being realized. In the famous Youngstown Steel
case in 1952, President Truman ordered the seizure of the steel mills during the Korean War. Truman claimed the action was critical for the war effort. The Supreme Court disagreed, and declared Truman’s order unconstitutional. What is more remarkable is that Truman—just like presidents before and after him— obeyed the court’s ruling even though he strongly disagreed, and even though the Court had no army and very little money or staff to enforce its ruling. Examples of the court “checking and balancing” our presidents are numerous. When the court ordered President Nixon to turn over his secret tapes during the Watergate scandal, Nixon obeyed. When the court reversed President Bush after 9/11 and said he must give due process protections to the inmates at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, Bush obeyed. When the court overruled President Obama and said the government must have a warrant before searching a person’s cell phone, Obama obeyed. When the courts ruled against President Trump on a citizenship question on the census form, Trump obeyed. And when the court ruled against President Biden on the vaccine mandate for large employers, Biden obeyed and dropped the mandate. Could these examples happen in Russia today? While Russia has separation of powers “on paper,” would any Russian court have the courage to rule against Putin on any major issue, especially one like the Youngstown Steel case that relates to the war effort? More importantly, even if a court did rule against Putin, would he obey? Would he allow himself to be overruled by another branch of government? If the answer to that is no, which seems likely, then the result is the very evil predicted by the Founders more than 230 years ago: “Power is the great evil with which we are contending. We have divided power between three branches of government and erected checks and balances to prevent abuse of power.” Patrick Henry “The accumulation of all powers, legislative, executive, and judiciary, in THE PEOPLE’S CONSTITUTION continues on page 39
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The People’s Constitution continued from page 38 the same hands, whether of one, a few, or many, and whether hereditary, self-appointed, or elective, may justly be pronounced the very definition of tyranny.” James Madison.
Conclusion
With all of its many flaws, our system of a democratically elected government, subject to strong limits imposed by the Constitution, and coupled with individual rights protected by the Constitution, is the best system we have found so far to avoid the terrible suffering and evils that can arise from the concentration of unchecked power into the hands of autocrat. Ben Lenhart is a graduate of Harvard Law School and has taught Constitutional Law at Georgetown Law Center for more than 20 years. He lives with his family and lots of animals on a farm near Hillsboro. n
LETTERS to the Editor continued from page 36 wetland and stream preservation areas will force the HOA to take homeowners’ property as it would be the only area left on which to establish additional preservation areas. Another blow to the community would be to its homes’ property values—and to those of nearby neighborhoods by decreasing comps— resulting in fewer property tax revenues for the county. This is a lose-lose situation. If a bypass becomes necessary, the decision between an eastern and a western option is a no-brainer.
— Dr. Robert Dilger, Lucketts
Stadium authority continued from page 1 Waterside. The Senate plan would authorize 40year bonds to finance a stadium, send sales tax revenues and both corporate income tax and a portion of personal income tax revenues generated by the to the stadium authority, and permit localities to condemn land to give to the stadium authority. The House of Delegates plan is more constrained, with a shorter 20-year period of financing, no new eminent domain power, and redirecting only sales tax revenue to the stadium authority. The House version also directs half the revenue from selling the naming rights to the stadium to the stadium authority. The bills also do not enjoy universal support among Loudoun elected representatives. Most recently, delegates Karrie K. Delaney (D-67), Wendy W. Gooditis (D-10) and Dave A. LaRock (R-33) opposed the most recent bill in the House, and Sens. Boysko and Barbara A. Favola (D-31) voted no in the Senate. The House vote supporting the bill was 54-46. The Senate vote was 30-10. Subramanyam, whose district includes the Loudoun site and also reaches into Prince William County, said he has voted yes on the legislation so far to allow it to continue to improve. “I want to welcome anyone who’s willing to make billions of dollars’ worth of investment into our community, so I want something to succeed that makes sense for the people of Loudoun or Prince William County. With that said, I also want
Bus Scheduling Editor: I wanted to express my concerns about the scheduling of Loudoun Transit Metro Connection buses and Silver Line trains. Since the onset of the pandemic, Loudoun Transit Metro Connection buses have experienced reduced service to one trip every 50 minutes from Ashburn Station to Wiehle-Reston East. To make matters worse, defects with WMATA’s 7000-series trains have resulted in Silver Line trains running only every 20 minutes during peak commuting hours. As a result, I could take the bus from Ashburn to Reston and could wait up to 20 minutes, if not more, for the next Silver Line train. To make matters worse, the Loudoun Transit Metro Connection bus
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to make sure that we don’t set this up for failure,” he said. Subramanyam said that would mean things like leaving terms too broadly defined, or leaving the public financing and taxing aspects of the authority too wide open. And he said the stadium authority should set localities up to provide infrastructure both around the new stadium development and elsewhere. “I want to make sure that there are more guardrails on the financing portion of the bill, that we’re not setting this up so that it’s something that the team and the stadium authority can take advantage of in perpetuity without any consequences,” he said. He also said to win his approval the bill would have to address the concerns of localities—and Loudoun supervisors have looked at the bill with skepticism. They have said that the authority should include representation from the locality. In February, County Chair Phyllis J. Randall (D-At Large) said she had not talked to the team, and raised concerns that the state is once again overriding local authority and tax revenues. She called it “blatantly insulting” that nobody from the locality would be appointed to the stadium authority. Supervisors voted to direct the county’s staff and lobbyists in Richmond to push to preserve local taxing and land use authority be preserved, that the new campus have enough adequate infrastructure to support it, and that at least one member of the authority be appointed by the local governing body wherever a stadium site is selected. Since then, supervisors in both Loudoun and Prince William have become more circumspect in their com-
ments, although Loudoun supervisors have continued to say they will be looking at any possible stadium with a skeptical eye. Supervisor Michael R. Turner (D-Ashburn), chairman of the board’s Transportation and Land Use Committee, said Tuesday that at this point, any comment he would offer on a Loudoun site would be “pure speculation.” “They haven’t picked a place, and there are things that we have discussed in closed session that I can’t talk about,” Turner said. But, he said, “if any decision is made to move the stadium into Loudoun, we’re going to look with a very, very careful eye toward the land use issues.” “In a hypothetical way, the creation of stadium in Loudoun County would have an enormous impact on our land use decisions going forward, almost no matter where it goes,” Turner said. “And we’ve got a lot of really cool projects in the offing right now, and we’re all going to look at it with a very, very close eye toward the unintended consequences.” Subramanyam said he wouldn’t support the stadium without the proposed accompanying development. “There’s been a lot of research done that shows a stadium alone will not be a magic solution to a locality’s economic success. There’s been enough studies to how that stadiums are often a net negative in some ways,” Subramanyam said. “But if you include other things related to it … and you make it so that it’s a good deal and has a self-sustaining ability, then it makes a lot more sense. Then you are talking about hundreds of millions of dollars or more being invested into a com-
schedule is arbitrarily set to run every 50 minutes. That is, the bus schedule does not align with the Silver Line schedule. For example, Rt. 925, one of the more popular bus routes, departs from Ashburn Station at 7:45 a.m. and arrives at Wiehle-Reston East at 8:03 a.m.. A Silver Line train just happens to depart from Wiehle-Reston East at 8:04 a.m. and for those who are not familiar with Wiehle-Reston East station, it is impossible to walk from the station entrance to the platform in under 60 seconds unless you have the ability to teleport. The next train doesn’t depart from Wiehle-Reston East until 8:24 a.m., so commuters are stuck waiting an additional 20 minutes for the train to depart. This scheduling does not make sense. I think there should be some thought into aligning Loudoun Transit
Metro Connection bus scheduling with WMATA’s Silver Line schedule. I think it would make most sense to have Loudoun Transit busses arrive 4-8 minutes before a Silver Line train departs Wiehle-Reston East in the mornings and have buses depart 4-8 minutes after a train arrives at WiehleReston East in the evenings rather than the existing arbitrarily set increments. I’m not necessarily asking for more frequent buses, but I do think optimizing the bus schedule would be very impactful to commuters across Loudoun County. With the recent escalation of fuel prices, it would encourage Loudoun residents back onto Loudoun buses. Making our transit options more appealing would bring back ridership which would decrease the cost burden of county transit. — Daniel Eisert, Ashburn
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