The Loudoun County Fair opened Tuesday with the livestock getting settled into their new homes for the week and their owners—including Abby Landes, left, preparing for their turn in the show ring. The fair continues through Saturday with a full schedule of carnival rides and games, community contests, concerts, rodeos, a demolition derby, and lots of farm fun. The fairgrounds are located at 7558 Dry Mill Road west of Leesburg. For the full schedule and ticket information, go to loudouncountyfair.com
County Eyes New Strategy for Protecting Gravel Roads
BY HANNA PAMPALONI hpampaloni@loudounnow.org
The Board of Supervisors’ Transportation and Land Use Committee is reviewing plans for an Unpaved Roads Program aimed at taking advantage of legislation that was passed by the General Assembly earlier this year.
The new law allows funding from the state’s Highway Construction District Improvement Program to be used for more than just paving rural roads, a goal the
county’s Rural Roads Committee has been working toward for years.
Each year, the county receives funds from the state program based on its milage of unpaved roads. On average, Loudoun receives $1.9 million annually. County supervisors meet each year to allocate that funding via a Secondary Road Six-Year Plan.
“During those meetings the board provides direction to [the Virginia Department of Transportation] on which unpaved roads should be improved. In
the past years, hard surfacing was the only improvement that could be performed, which usually entailed using the Rural Rustic Road Program to pave designated unpaved roads,” Program Manager Susan Glass said.
Now, that funding may be used install new material, improve drainage, and enhance road design.
If approved, the Unpaved Roads Program would result in recommendations on which of the county’s 254 miles of unpaved roads should be hard surfaced and
which should remain as gravel. It would create an inventory of all public unpaved roads including crash information, traffic levels and public input to develop a maintenance and preservation strategy for each.
“The decision to pave or not to pave is often controversial because there are very strong opinions on both sides,” Glass said
“The thought process here is, we’ve got
continues on page 23
GRAVEL ROADS
Douglas Graham/Loudoun Now
Business Leaders Tout Data Center Benefits at Chamber Forum
BY HANNA PAMPALONI hpampaloni@loudounno.org
Since controversial plans for a transmission line along Rt. 7 and another across western Loudoun gained residents’ attention over the past 18 months, community groups have pointed the finger at data centers.
But during a Loudoun Chamber of Commerce forum Tuesday morning, stakeholders said that, while it is true that the industry brings an unprecedented demand for power, it also brings a bevy of significant benefits. Those benefits include lower real estate property rates, a diverse local economy, jobs, and energy efficiency.
County Director of Economic Development Buddy Rizer said when he started in the position 18 years ago, 81% of the county’s overall tax base was residential. Having a diverse local economy is important, he said.
“That was very unhealthy, especially when the housing bubble burst, and we lost about a third of our revenue. That’s why for a long time we didn’t have raises for our employees. We laid off staff. We got way behind on a lot of things, on capital projects and things like that,” Rizer said.
Now, 49% of the county’s tax base is commercial real estate.
In addition to that, income from the data center industry allows county leaders to reduce tax rates, he said. Since 2012, the tax rate has been reduced by 42 cents.
“There’s really no comparison anywhere in the United States for that. That’s a really big number and it’s a game changer,” Rizer said. “… Your property tax bill would be about $1.33 [per $100 of assessed value] if you took the data center taxes out right now. It does save the average homeowner at an assessed value of $770,000 to $800,000 about $3,500.”
International Brotherhood of Electrical
Workers Local 26 Political Coordinator Don Slaiman said the data center industry also provides numerous jobs for the workforce.
“Our membership has doubled as a result of this industry in the last seven years,” he said. “… What that does for our economy and what that does for this community is amazing, to have those kinds of six figure blue collar jobs this close to our nation’s capital. The kind of stability that brings to our society and our community is unimaginable.”
Slaiman said the industry provides long term jobs for electricians as well.
“We have over 30 workers in every single completed data center building doing maintenance work,” he said.
Equinix Senior Vice President of Global Customer Care and Experience Chris Kimm said, while data centers do require a significant amount of energy, they use more sustainable power than any other industrial consumer in the world.
“We have a commitment to provide 100% of our power from carbon free sources by 2030. We’re 97% of the way
there globally and 100% of the way there in the United States,” he said.
Rizer added that energy costs make up the majority of a data center’s expenses, making it in the company’s best interest to use power as efficiently as possible.
“I just would like to give everybody the sense that the industry is a partner in this and, in some ways, it is a model industry for the 21st century,” Kimm said. “We consume electricity. That’s our input. We produce prosperity as described in jobs and economic activity in the digital economy. I think the opportunity here is for that to be a truly green 21st century industry.”
Speakers acknowledge the concern from residents that the result of data center growth would be a need for more power.
Supervisor Michael R. Turner (D-Ashburn) has been leading an effort to promote on-site generation and alternative forms of infrastructure upgrades rather than building new transmission lines.
Kimm said Equinix, and other data center companies, are already working on that.
“On-site generation, which Supervisor Turner mentioned, is something Equi-
nix has done on dozens of our locations around the world, historically. We’ve not yet done that in Northern Virginia, but it is of course, a possibility that we could hear as well.”
However, Rizer said it was unlikely that on-site generation will be the future of Loudoun’s data centers.
“I don’t know that I see a future of the industry without on-site power generation. I’m not sure if that’s going to happen here in Loudoun because we’re such a mature market, and it’s hard to retrofit those things,” he said.
“We may not have SMRs, Small Modular Reactors, here in Loudoun, but we’ll have them in other parts of the state, which can relieve the grid to free up energy here in Loudoun,” Slaiman said.
Slaiman said it is important to keep the data industry thriving in the county.
“These jobs are going to be around here for a long time. Wiring the world’s brain is going nowhere and we should do everything we can to keep it here,” he said.
Curata Planning and Zoning Specialist Molly Novotny said new efforts by the Board of Supervisors to more tightly regulate data centers is making that harder.
“With the 2023 [Zoning] Ordinance, those design standards are really put in place and we need time to be responsive and to show that we can meet those design standards,” she said. “The Board of Supervisors is looking to further identify additional standards, but we haven’t even had time yet with the standards above that are presented to us now.”
The first data center applications required to meet the conditions of the new ordinance will appear for public hearings this fall, Novotny said.
“That’s really the chance to show that we can be compatible with and address the concerns that have been raised,” she said. n
Data Centers Could Push Leesburg to Water Capacity Limits
BY NORMAN K. STYER nstyer@loudounnow.com
Leesburg’s leaders will have to be careful in deciding whether to approve more high-capacity water users—including data centers—as development projections raise concerns that future growth could trigger the need for costly utility system expansions.
The Town Council was briefed Monday night on the status of the town’s wa-
ter and sewage treatment capacity.
According to the staff report, the town currently has ample water capacity, using an average of 4.2 million gallons per day. The water treatment plant is permitted for up to 12.8 mgd.
However, with two additional data centers approved but not yet built at Microsoft’s Compass Creek campus—which has been allocated up to 1.23 mgd—and several others planned around town, that picture could change quickly.
Since last summer, the maximum daily water demand increased from just over 5 mgd to nearly 7 mgd, a change attributed to the Microsoft operations.
In her report, Director of Public Utilities Amy Wyks recommended that the council not extend water and sewer service to any property beyond the town limits or the Joint Land Management Area.
“The ultimate build out of the Town’s utility service area cannot accommo-
date and sustain the continued addition of large capacity water users with the Town’s current treatment capacity,” she wrote. “The Town’s projected water and wastewater demand at buildout is close to the state’s regulatory trigger point that would require expensive plant capacity improvements or confirm that growth in the service area is limited.”
LEESBURG WATER continues on page 22
Hanna Pampaloni/Loudoun Now Equinix Senior Vice President of Global Customer Care and Experience Chris Kimm, center, speaks at a Loudoun Chamber forum July 23.
Loudoun Supervisors Debate Scope of Rural Zoning Project
BY HANNA PAMPALONI hpampaloni@loudounnow.org
County leaders are one step closer to launching a detailed review of business and development rules in western Loudoun after the Board of Supervisors’ Transportation and Land Use Committee on July 17 came to agreement on the scope of the project.
The final round of tweaks, which added items for the study, will likely lengthen the process from two years to two and a half, Planning and Zoning Director Daniel Galindo told the committee.
The project comes after supervisors largely insulated rural land from policy and regulatory changes during the adoption of the General Plan and Zoning Ordinance over the past eight years.
Already the review was expected to include Zoning Ordinance amendments relating to definitions, restrictions, performance standards, location and resident protections for wineries, breweries and distilleries; definitions, agricultural processing, and resident protections for farms; use restrictions for the Mountainside Overlay District; rural signage; and definitions, performance standards, regulation modifications and resident protections for stables, liveries and outdoor recreation.
Since the committee’s June 20 meeting, supervisors Caleb A. Kershner (R-Catoctin) and Laura A. TeKrony (D-Little River) have been working with the county staff to finalize the scope of the project with several additions.
However, the committee’s main discussion was focused on three items—reinstating guest farms and ranches as a permitted use, allowing the county zoning administrator flexibility to respond to inconsistencies in the overlay districts, and reviewing the regulations to maintain consistency across all rural uses.
The first two were scope additions proposed by Kershner. He said guest farms and ranches had been dropped past zoning ordinances because none had been proposed and because the staff thought they could be accommodated under Bed and Breakfast provisions.
“I would like to make sure that this particular permitted use be put back in some way unless you feel 100% that there is another way that this permitted use is [allowed] under the current and the new zoning,” Kershner said.
County Chair Phyllis J. Randall (D-At Large) said she was not sure that it was necessary to add the use back in Zoning Ordinance if it could be included under bed and breakfasts, but she agreed it was
worth having the staff include it in the scope of the project to find out more.
Kershner said the proposal to give the zoning administrator additional flexibility had risen from “egregious” scenarios in his district.
“We had an issue with some elderly sisters and the steep slopes map had been changed which changed a very small, I think it was 100 feet or 150 feet of a roadway. They had this land for years and years and years, they were going to, at their end of life, subdivide it and sell it off. They were unable to because of the remapping that occurred,” Kershner said.
Despite his and county staff ’s best efforts, there was nothing that could be done to help except changing the overlay districts, he said.
“Obviously [that] was not going to happen. That could have been something that potentially could have been granted a variance from the zoning administrator. Obviously, we can’t do it under our current laws,” he said.
TeKrony said that seemed like an issue relevant to the entire county, not just rural Loudoun. “I’m just wondering if that could be dealt with in another process,” she said.
County staff members said it could be added to the Department of Planning Zoning workplan to be addressed on its own.
Kershner said as long as the issue would be reviewed by the staff at some point, he was OK with it not being included in this project.
TeKrony said she wanted to make sure that inconsistencies in permitted uses across rural parts of the county are reviewed during the Zoning Ordinance and Comprehensive Plan amendment process.
“I have examples … just on the lodging, regarding outdoor music, hours of operation and exterior lighting. It’s all different for bed and breakfast homestay, bed and breakfast inn, country inn, and rural resorts,” she said, adding that those regulations should be the same for each category.
Other items added to the project scope include tenant and farm worker housing; food service and farm to table restaurants; food trucks; event and banquet facility performance standards; parking requirements; rural restaurants; and sawmills.
The review will include at least four roundtable work sessions by the board committee and representatives from tourism and business interests, three agricultural and conservation advocates, three residents and two Planning Commission representatives.
The full board will vote the recommendations during its September business meeting. n
New Documentary Details History of Arcola Slave Quarters
BY ALEXIS GUSTIN agustin@loudounnow.org
A new mini documentary on the history of the Arcola Slave Quarters has been released ahead of a park being developed to further preserve the site’s history.
Friends of the Slave Quarters Vice President Phyllis Cook-Taylor said the documentary, produced by David Patterson and directed by Alex Acosta of RH Media, tells the story of efforts to preserve the property since its discovery in the late 1990s including the formation of the Friends of the Slave Quarters in 1998.
Built in 1813 on the grounds of the Lewis plantation, the stacked stone structure used to house the enslaved had two sections with the second section being built in 1845. Because it was made of stone, it has withstood the test of time and is one of the few reminders of the county’s African American antebellum history, according to
the organization.
The quarters housed 32 people who slept on a dirt floor with straw pallets, according to the documentary.
Cook-Taylor said the Friends of the Slave Quarters was created after a call went out to the community to preserve the site. She joined after reading about it in a newspaper article and has been working to preserve the property ever since.
She said in the early days they found support for the project from then-Lees-
burg District Supervisor Joan Rokus, who was instrumental in helping to garner interest in preserving the slave quarters on the property, as well as the Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Services.
That led to years of meetings, discussions and plans to bring its history to life, including the documentary that was awarded $50,000 in 2022 from the Google Data Center Community Grant program.
The documentary contains interviews of the members of the Friends of the Slave Quarters, including Cook-Taylor and Arlean Hill, the organization’s longest serving members, who describe what the discovery of the quarters means to them and what it will mean to visitors.
Hill states in the documentary that Loudoun County had the largest enslaved population in the Northern Virginia area between 1801 and 1860 comprising 2533% of the population.
“You can’t tell a story of a place of history and don’t tell all of it,” Hill said in the documentary. “If you leave that out you do a disservice to the tourists, the kids that are coming to school and being educated in Loudoun. So, I felt it was important to tell this story.”
Cook-Taylor said the documentary is just the beginning to what they have planned for the property located along Evergreen Mills Road in Arcola.
The Slave Quarters, which was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2008, is under development by PRCS with plans to open the area as a park in 2027.
The organization envisions a 14.9-acre park with a visitor’s center where students and others can learn about the site’s history, archeology and geology. They plan to have walking trails and a contemplative areas for visitors to stop and reflect.
To watch the mini documentary, go to arcolaslavequarters.org. n
Courtesy of Arcola Slave Quarters Mini Documentary
A still shot from the Arcola Slave Quarters mini documentary showing the stacked stone quarters
Leesburg
Council Eyes Parking Upgrades at Town Hall Garage, Liberty St. Lot
BY NORMAN K. STYER nstyer@loudounnow.org
Changes are coming to the Town Hall garage. Parking guides are going up, the barriers are coming down—and the appbased ParkMobile system is moving in.
The Leesburg Town Council held another of its frequent work sessions on downtown parking concerns Monday night when Deputy Town Manager Keith Markel provided an update on plans to improve current parking and options to provide more spaces.
In the Town Hall parking garage, electronic signs will be installed by year’s end that will notify drivers of the number of open spaces available on each level. The $150,000 upgrade is intended to help visitors more quickly find spaces, especially during peak periods.
During Monday night’s briefing, the Town Council informally endorsed a staff proposal to expand the ParkMobile payment system to the garage. The app-based system was deployed for on-street parking last year. Using it in the garage would allow the town to remove the gates at the garage entrances and exits and would offset the $61,000 in technology and staffing costs under the current system. Using ParkMobile also would allow the town to implement demand pricing—charging higher hourly fees during peak periods—which is an option the council has discussed in the past.
Council members noted that the appbased system has sparked complaints, but they were told that kiosks would be installed to permit payments with credit or debit cards.
During fiscal year 2025, operations at the 362-space Town Hall garage are pro-
jected to generate $158,400, comprised of $69,000 from general parking fees and $85,400 from monthly space rentals.
The town’s on-street parking system is projected to generate $63,000 from parking fees and nearly three times that amount, $181,800, in parking ticket fines this budget year. The town budgets $76,000 per year for enforcement using part-time staff members.
Markel also provided an update on options to increase downtown parking, including two private sector options.
The owners of the Church and Market redevelopment project on the former Loudoun Times-Mirror property offered to provide the town with 40 to 50 public parking spaces in its planned garage through a 40-year lease at the projected cost of $57,500 per space. Council members agreed not to pursue that offer.
Another opportunity is to develop a parking structure in a gravel lot at the end of Church Street. The property is owned by Market Station and provides about 90 spaces. It was identified as a potential garage location in a 2015 Downtown Parking Task Force report. Markel said it generally costs $30,000 per space to construct structured parking, so the same $7.5 million investment proposed in the Church and Market agreement could yield 250 spaces at that site.
The council expressed support for a third option that would provide improvements to the town-owned Liberty Street parking lot. That project would include improving the access to and from South Street, repaving the lot, adding lighting, and making ADA upgrades. Town Manager Kaj Dentler said the staff would provide a detailed plan in the fall ahead of next year’s budget deliberations. n
Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now
Leesburg Parking Garage
Downtown Leesburg Development Plan Receives Pushback from Residents, BAR
BY HANNA PAMPALONI hpampaloni@loudounnow.org
Leesburg’s Board of Architectural Review July 17 heard plans for a downtown redevelopment proposal to construct two four-story, mixed-use buildings on land used as parking lots along North King and West Market streets.
The mix of uses for the buildings has not yet been finalized, according to builder Keven Ash but two retail storefronts are planned along the Market Street frontage, designed to fill a gap in that streetscape, with the project’s entrance through an archway between them. The small office on the property at 10 W. Market St., a non-historic former drive-up bank built in the 1970s, would be removed as part of the plan. The new buildings are proposed to have ground floor parking with offices or residences on the upper three floors.
The plans will be reviewed by the BAR because the project falls within Leesburg’s downtown historic district, but the body’s purview is largely limited to architectural elements.
Residents living in the historic district, especially those living along Wirt
and Cornwall streets with lots that back to property, said they were opposed to the plan, citing the project’s size and scale and its visual impact on the surrounding area.
Resident Tom Murdock said because of the building’s height, it would be seen even though it fits behind several other structures.
“The building is not hidden by anything. It’s not hidden by the buildings on King Street or anything else. So, the impact is pretty large,” he said.
Other residents said it is up to the BAR to ensure that the project does not negatively impact the historic nature of downtown.
“This is visible. It will impact the character of the downtown. It should not be allowed to exceed the height of the historic structures or be visible from the street or even better not be allowed at all to be built like this. It is my expectation that the BAR will guide this project with the utmost respect to the historic preservation of the downtown Leesburg, keeping in mind the impact it will have if it’s allowed to move forward,” Teresa Bishop said.
LEESBURG DEVELOPMENT continues on page 7
Leesburg development
continued from page 6
“The current proposal before you is a grave departure from the mandated obligation to protect and preserve Leesburg’s historic character,” Loren Hudziak said. “This proposal with its immense scale, and the proximity to the neighboring homes, disregards the very essence of this town. It is conceived, designed and championed by individuals who do not live here. … Whom does this board represent? Because approval of this project in its current form would suggest it is certainly not the residents of this town, nor of this neighborhood.”
Members of the board said they also had concerns about the size and scale of the plans, but that they are limited in what they can control.
Vice Chair Helen Aikman said the historic district design guidelines were created by the Town Council and are intended to accomplish two things—preserve the historic character of downtown Leesburg and allow new construction that is compatible with the existing structures.
For this project, those goals seem to be at odds, she said.
Board member Julie Pastor agreed.
“I think we have to ultimately look at the fact that the BAR is charged with pro-
tecting those guidelines and applying them in that manner,” she said.
Both expressed concern at the fourstory height of the buildings.
Chair Tom O’Neil said the building planned behind 19 N. King St. is a “nonstarter” for him because of how much taller it would be compared to its surrounding structures.
“Building two doesn’t work at all as a four-story building,” he said, adding that maybe it could be changed to a two-story building that sits on top of a one level parking garage.
“From my perspective, I think to give you all some direction before you come to the next work session, you’re going to be beating your head against a wall and we will vote to not approve this project if you come back next time with two four-story buildings. It’s as simple as that,” O’Neil said.
Ash told Loudoun Now last week that the project could be built-by right under the town’s Zoning Ordinance, including the four-story building heights. The property has been zoned for commercial development for more than 30 years, he said, leaving only residential uses requiring a minor special exception.
The BAR left the public hearing open to allow more residents to voice their thoughts on the application. n
Supervisors Deny Additional $2M Request from School Board
BY HANNA PAMPALONI hpampaloni@loudounnow.org
County supervisors last week denied a request by the School Board to transfer an additional $2 million to Loudoun County Public Schools after the General Assembly adopted its fiscal year 2025 budget appropriating the amount for the organization.
County Chair Phyllis J. Randall (DAt Large) said the board had already fully funded the budget request by the School Board.
“The school comes before us every year with what they believe the funding amount should be. We gave them the
Education
“We have a lot of fund balance needs this year,” Randall said. “… If we had shorted the school or if they were $2 million under their request, I would say absolutely.”
entire amount of what they requested, every single penny. I don’t see a reason to go over $2 million over what they requested,” she said.
Because the money was appropriated by the state, a motion by Randall would transfer the state funds to the school system and reduce the amount funded by local tax dollars in the FY 2025 budget by the same amount—increasing the pool of unallocated funds available for other projects.
SCHOOL notebook
Rock Ridge Students Perform at International Festival
Rock Ridge High Schools production of “Rent: School Edition” represented state at the International Thespian Festival in late June, making it the first Virginia school in 10 years to perform at the festival.
It was one of nine high school productions selected from across the nation.
Students also performed well in their individual categories, walking away with 17 superior ratings and securing the highest number in the school’s 10-year history. Maggie Miller, Emily Gruessing, Claire Wood, and Kaia Greene were recognized as the top in the nation for their respective categories, with Gruessing being acknowledged for both her monologue and for musical theater. Miller was recognized as top in the nation for theater marketing for “Bring it On.” Wood was recognized for scenic design of “Rent.” Greene was recognized for sound design for “Treasure Island” for an original piece she wrote, composed, produced and directed.
7 Recognized in First Year of SHINE Awards
The division’s Spotlighting Heroes in Education Award recognized seven employees during its inaugural year, with gifts totaling at least $500 per recipient.
SHINE is a joint division and Loudoun Education Foundation initiative to recognize staff members who go above and beyond in support of students.
The division community submitted 530 nominations and of those, one nominee was chosen every month as the SHINE
winner. Winners were celebrated by division administrators, school-based administrators and students.
This year’s winners include Elaine E. Thompson Elementary School custodian Ruben Rodriguez Alcantara, Brambleton Middle School nutrition manager Evelyn Ceballos, Virtual Loudoun Online English Learner teacher Traci Scannell Crowe, Loudoun Valley High School counseling director Paul Hall, Hillsboro Charter Academy third grade teacher Randy Morgan and Round Hill Elementary School fourth grade teacher Kathryn Schroeck.
The division plans to continue the program for the 2024-2025 school year. Gifts were coordinated by LEF.
Saines Plans Back to School Drive
Supervisor Koran T. Saines (D-Sterling) is again hosting his annual Back-to-School Supply Drive to help alleviate the burden of back-to-school shopping as much as possible for families in the community.
The Sterling District office is looking for businesses and nonprofits in the community interested in serving as drop-off sites for donations or that is interested in hosting an internal supply drive among employees and staff.
All donated items will be donated to schools in the Sterling District at the beginning of the school year.
If you are interested in serving as a drop-off location or in hosting a donation drive, contact Saines’ office at Tianni.Ivey@loudoun.gov.
The first day of school is Aug. 22. n
Supervisor Michael R. Turner (D-Ashburn) said he was “vigorously” opposed to the motion.
“What we’re effectively doing is getting between the state and the General Assembly saying, ‘We want the Loudoun County schools to get an extra $2 million,’” Turner said. “And we’re stepping in between them and saying, ‘No. No. You can’t give them an extra $2 million.’ And so, we’re going to take it away so that they break even and don’t get this $2 million and we’re going to put it in county coffers.”
County Administrator Tim Hemstreet said the state is supposed to be the primary funding source for public school systems, while localities are considered supplemental funding sources.
“Because of the level of funding the commonwealth provides in Loudoun County, the county actually provides more funding than does the state,” he said. “So, anything provided by the county would be just additional funding that we’re pro-
viding … I would not characterize it professionally as the county supplanting state money in this situation.”
Randall said the problem could have been avoided if the General Assembly had not taken so long to adopt its budget.
“We would have had this all worked out before if the budget had been done on time and this money would have never gone to them from our budget,” she said.
Vice Chair Juli E. Briskman (DAlgonkian) asked if the School Board had said how it would use the additional money.
Bourke said school leaders plan to use the money to provide “more competitive” pay for parttime summer school teachers, assistants and nurse positions.
Briskman said that if the money was going toward teacher compensation, she could support the additional funding since the county’s expected fund balance amount is $200 million.
“I would rather see it go toward teacher pay,” she said.
Randall’s motion passed 6-2-1 with Turner and Briskman opposed and Matthew F. Letourneau (R-Dulles) absent.n
Round Hill Imposes Mandatory Water Use Restrictions
BY NORMAN K. STYER nstyer@loudounnow.org
As the region wrestles with severe drought conditions, the Round Hill Town Council voted July 17 to enact mandatory water use restrictions.
The action prohibits most outdoor water use.
2024 is shaping up to be the fourth consecutive year with below average precipitation, with the Purcellville area running a 3.2-inch deficit even after a relatively wet spring. Last week, the U.S. Drought Monitoring project included Round Hill and other portions of western Loudoun in a zone that is experiencing extreme drought conditions.
Town Administrator Melissa Hynes said the action was precautionary. While the town’s utility staff is balancing the use of the town’s 11 groundwater wells to keep up with demand, some wells are showing signs of falling levels and slower recharging.
The area has seen more rain in recent days providing a boost for crops and lawns, but it will take sustained periods of precipitation to raise groundwater levels.
Hynes said the main objective of the restrictions is to curb use by the system’s largest users. Among the town’s, 1,830 water customers, the median demand is 128 gallons per day. However, some are using 1,000 gallons per day, largely for lawn watering. According to the town’s figures, 116 customers—representing less than 1% of users—are using more than 300 gallons per day and are consuming 21% of the system’s water.
The town’s ordinance permits fines of up to $500 for violations during the mandatory conservation period, but Hynes said there are no plans to issue fines, at least initially.
“The focus of this status it to find a way to reduce the number of customers watering their lawns. For example, while most yards are naturally brown due to the lack of rain, Staff continues to witness residents who water their grass and showcase green lawns in exchange for using 4 times or more the average daily use of water,” she wrote in a July 11 memo to the town council.
During the past year, the town has implemented a metering system that permits the town to monitor individual accounts on a real-time basis. During the restric-
Towns
tions, the staff plans public information campaigns to promote conservation and a routine of placing phone calls to the heaviest users each day.
The monitoring system has been helpful to residents who had undetected leaks identified by the town staff. Town Planner Bobby Lohr told the council about a recent case when home had used 14,000 gallons of water over a six-day period— unusual for the elderly couple living there. The staff visited the home to alert them, finding a water heater leaking into a basement drain.
The region experienced drought conditions during much of 2023, with drought reaching a severe level in September. That continued through December. That was the most significant drought since 2002 when the county experienced extreme drought conditions from February until April, according to the U.S. Drought Monitoring program database.
During last year’s drought, the Town of Round Hill imposed mandatory conservation measures for the first time in more than a decade. Those restrictions were in place from November to February.
Hynes said, while it was important for customers to use water wisely, the situation does not call for extreme measures.
“The plan for is to not scare people. We don’t want to be like last year where people are afraid to wash their hair. We just we want people to be cautious, conserva-
tive, thoughtful,” she said.
While the town typically promotes voluntary conservation during the dry summer months, leaders had hoped to avoid mandatory restrictions, particularly after a new high-yield well was added to the system earlier this year. That well is producing as promised, but construction of a new water treatment plant is needed to take full advantage of its 255 gallons per minute capacity. The well is limited to about 100 gpm until that happens.
Hynes said the mandatory restrictions would remain in place at least until the Town Council’s next meeting in September. At that time, the restrictions could move to voluntary status if the severe drought conditions have improved—or the town could move to its Phase 2 conservation status if conditions worsen. Under the town’s Phase 2 measures, water use could be limited to as little as 150 gallons per day per account, with high surcharges assessed to those exceeding the cap.
The Middleburg Town Council on July 11 became the first Loudoun town to implement mandatory water conservation measures in response to the drought.
Other towns are closely monitoring their production.
While Lovettsville has not taken any moves to impose mandatory restrictions, Town Manager Jason Cournoyer told the Town Council last week, before the recent rainfalls, they were “imminent.”
“We need some rain in the very near term to avoid mandatory water restrictions,” he said.
The Town of Purcellville, which relies on a reservoir for about half of its water supply, declared a drought watch last week. Under the town’s Water Emergency Ordinance, the watch stage of water conservation asks residents and businesses to avoid wasting water and encourages outdoor watering to be limited to even or odd days based on their address.
Mayor Stanley J. Milan said the council is not yet considering moving to a more restrictive drought warning stage.
“We’re pretty stable right now. Our reservoir isn’t where we need to go to warning,” he said.
Drinking water for most county residents—those in eastern Loudoun and Leesburg—is supplied by the Potomac River. Regional leaders were schedule to meet later this week to assess the river’s conditions. n
Construction to Begin on Long-Planned Water Tank
BY NORMAN K. STYER nstyer@loudounnow.org
The Round Hill Town Council celebrated a significant milestone Wednesday night awarding a $3.7 million contract for the construction of the Airmont water tank. Planning for the utility system upgrade began a decade ago.
When completed by February 2026, the project will double the water storage in the town’s main water system to 1 million gallons.
The 500,000-gallon tank will be built along Yatton Road on the south side of town.
The construction contract awarded to the Johnston Construction Company is part of an overall $5.6 million project that includes plans to conduct rehabilitative maintenance on the town’s other elevated water tower along Evening Star Drive.
The town received two bids for the project. Johnston submitted the lowest bid, for a spheroid tank with a design similar to the Evening Star tank. Landmark Structures I submitted a $4.24 million bid for a composite tank that would have a concreate base.
“The town was fortunate to have two exceptional contractors. It was a tough decision for us either way and actually even tougher because they both presented their best option,” Town Project Manager Rob Lohr told the council.
The bids were evaluated by town consultant Keith Lane of Peed and Bortz. He said it was important to evaluate both tank designs.
“We wanted to make sure that that we maximized the competition, and that’s important in this field because there aren’t very many folks that do these tanks— literally maybe five nationwide.
WATER TANK continues on page 12
Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now The Round Hill Town Council on July 17, voted to impose mandatory water use restrictions amid the region’s severe drought.
The Purcellville Planning Commission has finalized its initial work on a rewrite of the town’s Zoning Ordinance and scheduled a public hearing on the document Thursday at 6:30 p.m.
The commission began work on the rewrite in 2022 after the Town Council adopted the 2030 Comprehensive Plan in 2020.
Among the key changes proposed in the new ordinance are creating new overlay districts, expanding the Historic Properties Overlay District, modifying the Floodplain Overlay District, removing duplexes as permitted uses in the R-3 District, and prohibiting expansion of or new Planned Development Housing districts.
The proposed overlay districts are based on focus areas identified in the comprehensive plan. They are: Downtown North, Downtown Southeast, Downtown Southwest, East Main, Hirst East, Hirst West and West End. The Comprehensive Plan describes them as being “areas of Purcellville where opportunities exist to
enhance and facilitate development to a level consistent with the town’s vision.”
The draft ordinance uses the overlays to promote a distinct design character for each focus area.
The commission also revived its proposal to expand the current Historic Corridor Overlay to more town neighborhoods, putting those residential buildings under the jurisdiction of Board of Architectural Review. The move is aimed at discouraging demolition of existing homes to build larger ones. Zoning Administrator Summer Wilkes told the council in a June 26 email that she did not recommend the change be included in the draft ordi-
nance since a previous effort to expand the corridor was met with public opposition in 2022.
Wilkes said the proposal should have more thorough public review. She did not include the map or the text in the first draft returned back to the commission.
During a July 3 meeting, Commissioner Nedim Ogleman said that Wilkes did not have the authority to do that.
“This draft legislation that the Planning Commission agreed to unanimously after considerable public deliberation through proper parliamentary procedure is zapped from our draft Zoning Ordinance,” he said.
Ogleman said the commission could decide to revisit the issue based on staff recommendations, but that he did not support, “an arbitrary unliteral veto from town staff made in the shadows.”
The commission agreed, with the exception of Troy Brown who said he did not feel the corridor expansion needed to be in this draft legislation.
But Wilkes said the commission had never taken a vote on the Historic Properties Overlay and that she was concerned
Tuesday, July 30, 12 to 1 p.m. In-Person Meeting:
Wednesday, July 31 and Thursday, August 1 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Stone Hill Middle School 23415 Evergreen Ridge Dr Ashburn, VA 20148
about the proper order of implementing it.
“I also have a concern that there is language left out. I just don’t think it’s ready to be put forward to the public because it is such a contentious issue,” she said.
During the July 3 meeting, the commission voted to include the overlay in the draft ordinance.
The change to the town’s Floodplain Overlay District reduces how much a development project is permitted to disturb a floodplain—from one foot to not at all.
Wilkes said the town had received word from a project engineer that the change would result in higher costs as new work to reevaluate and mitigate the floodplain impact would need to be done.
The new ordinance would also move Planned Development Housing Districts to “legacy” status and prohibit the expansion of current PDH districts or the creation of any new designations.
After Thursday’s public hearing, the commission is expected to vote on the document during a special July 31 meeting. If approved, the document will advance to the Town Council for review. n
Hanna Pampaloni/Loudoun Now
Purcellville Planning Commissioner Nedim Ogleman reviews a zoning map during a July 3 meeting.
How
Water tank
continued from page 10
There just aren’t that many,” Lane said. “Secondly, we wanted to give the town the ability to make the choice based on real numbers, not just what our estimates might be” about the cost differences between the two structure types.
“After doing extensive research, lifecycle analysis, looking at the site, and looking at their reputations, we felt that both contractors were exceptional. The town couldn’t go wrong with either, but we thought that the lowest most responsible bid at the best price and the cost savings and for the product was to award the contract to Johnson Construction Company,” Lohr said.
Work is expected to begin by this fall with construction of an access road and other site preparation. Clearing of trees for construction will have to wait until mid-November because of federal laws protecting breeding habitats of the endangered northern long-eared bat. The contract requires construction to be complete within 480 days, by February 2026.
With soaring supply costs in recent
years, the project’s price tag has more than doubled since design work began in 2018. Construction is moving forward with the help of the county government that provided two grants—$3.7 million from the county’s capital projects budget and $1.5 million from its allocation of American Rescue Plan Act funds. The project budget also has the town as spending $400,000 from its Utility Fund reserves. In seeking county government support for the project, town leaders stressed that the vast majority of its 1,830 utility customers live outside the town boundaries in developments approved by the county.
With the water tank project moving forward, the Town Council already is looking ahead to other critical utility projects, including the installation of new 12-inch water mains and construction of a new water treatment plant. The town is hoping for county funding support for the treatment plant project, which would replace a 20-year-old plant designed to treat 80 gallons per minute with a new plant with a 365 gpm capacity. The council agreed to submit a request for $3 million to help with that project. n
LOUDOUN’S FAVORITES
THURSDAY, JULY 25, 2024 • 48 PAGES
Loudoun’s Favorites: e Readers’ Recommendations
During June, Loudoun Now asked readers to share recommendations about their favorite places, people and businesses.
Over 3,500 names were submitted as nominations in the poll’s more than 200 categories, with each person, place or business held up as a piece of the community that makes Loudoun County a special place to live and work.
What’s the favorite date spot? is year, the readers recommended Purcellville’s Magnolia’s at the Mill.
Stone Tower near Leesburg and Bear Chase Brewery on Loudoun’s western boundary continue to rank as the favorite cra beverage destinations.
Among nearly 60 performers nominated from the county’s robust music scene, Gary Smallwood repeated his performance as Loudoun’s favorite musician.
And it should come as no surprise to county residents that 75 Loudoun-based nonpro ts were nominated for recognition of their community service.
Inside, you’ll nd the readers’ recommendations for where to meet with friends, the favorite outdoor dining spot, who to bank with, where to nd the best burger or barbecue, and service provider from accounting to yoga—virtually every element of life in Loudoun.
e list of winners also can be viewed at loudounsfavorites.com.
INSIDE:
BLUE RIDGE GRILL
#1 Favorite Family Restaurant!
Thanks to all of Loudoun for Voting BRG your favorite 12 years in a row!
COMMUNITY
FAVORITE COLLEGE OR UNIVERSITY
36 Nominations
WINNER: VIRGINIA TECH
Runner Up: James Madison
FAVORITE COMMUNITY FESTIVAL
33 Nominations
WINNER: LEESBURG FLOWER & GARDEN FESTIVAL
Runner Up: Bluemont Fair
FAVORITE COMMUNITY SPORTS LEAGUE
39 Nominations
WINNER: LOUDOUN SOCCER
Runner Up: Purcellville Cannons
• LEESBURG, VA 20176 • 703-669-5505
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frequently visited:
FAVORITE COMMUNITY SWIMMING POOL
48 Nominations
WINNER: AV SYMINGTON AQUATICS CENTER/ IDA LEE
Runner Up: Franklin Park
FAVORITE GOVERNMENT SERVICE
30 Nominations
WINNER: LOUDOUN COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
Runner Up: Loudoun County Public Library
FAVORITE NONPROFIT/ COMMUNITY ORGANIZATION
75 Nominations
WINNER: LOUDOUN INTERFAITH RELIEF
Runner Up: Blue Ridge Hospice
Mitchell, Burns & Co., P.C.
Voted Loudoun’s Favorite CPA Firm
“Thank You” to Our Clients
Business and Individual Tax Compliance and Financial Reporting
Serving Industries Including: Manufacturing, Publishing, Non-Profit Groups and Local Government
Mitchell, Burns & Co., P.C.
110 East Market Street, Suite 200 - Leesburg, VA 20176
703-777-4900 - mco@mcocpa.com
FAVORITE PERFORMING ARTS GROUP
18 Nominations
WINNER: DANCE ACADEMY OF LOUDOUN
Runner Up: Loudoun Symphony
FAVORITE PLACE OF WORSHIP
77 Nominations
WINNER: CORNERSTONE CHAPEL
Runner Up: St. John the Apostle Catholic Church
FAVORITE PRIVATE SCHOOL
27 Nominations
WINNER: CORNERSTONE
CHRISTIAN ACADEMY
Runner Up: Loudoun Country Day School
FAVORITE PUBLIC SCHOOL
101 Nominations
WINNER: LOUDOUN COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL
Runner Up: Loudoun Valley High School
FAVORITE SUMMER CAMP/ PROGRAM
24 Nominations
WINNER: LOUDOUN COUNTY PARKS & RECREATION
Runner Up: Kim’s Tae Kwon Do Summer Camp
FOOD & DRINK
FAVORITE ASIAN RESTAURANT
71 Nominations
WINNER: CHINA KING
Runner Up: Jasmine
Jeffrey D. Mitchell, CPA; Sandra M. Tondreau, CPA; W. Matthew Burns, CPA; Kara J. Doyle, CPA; John S. Walker; J. Garrett Mee; Cassie R. Chauncey; Adam Conklin, Claire M. Burns and Tonji Leiss, CPA
FAVORITE BAKERY/PASTRY SHOP
29 Nominations
FAVORITE BREWERY
23 Nominations
WINNER: MOM’S APPLE PIE
Runner Up: Dolce & Ciabatta
FAVORITE BAR
49 Nominations
WINNER: BUNGALOW LAKEHOUSE
Runner Up: Tuskies
FAVORITE BARTENDER
WINNER: BEAR CHASE BREWERY
Runner Up: Harvest Gap Brewery
FAVORITE PLACE FOR A BURGER
46 Nominations
WINNER: MELT
Runner Up: Market Burger Fries & Shakes
FAVORITE CHEF
12 Nominations
WINNER: INGRID
7 Nominations
WINNER: MATT DULEY, BUNGALOW LAKEHOUSE
Runner Up: Joni Smith, Spankys/ Shenanigans
FAVORITE PLACE FOR BREAKFAST
40 Nominations
WINNER: FIRST WATCH
Runner Up: Anita’s Mexican Restaurant
GUSTAVSON, LIGHTFOOT
Runner Up: Joan Wolford, C’est Bon
FAVORITE COFFEE SHOP
27 Nominations
WINNER: DOPPIO BUNNY COFFEE, PURCELLVILLE
Runner Up: King Street Coffee
FAVORITE FAMILY RESTAURANT
64 Nominations
WINNER: BLUE RIDGE GRILL
Runner Up: Magnolias at the Mill
FAVORITE FINE DINING
32 Nominations
WINNER: LIGHTFOOT
Runner Up: Tuscarora Mill
FAVORITE FOOD TRUCK
22 Nominations
WINNER: FORD’S FISH SHACK
Runner Up: ResQ BBQ
FAVORITE PLACE FOR FRENCH FRIES
41 Nominations
WINNER: FIVE GUYS
Runner Up: Melt
FAVORITE ITALIAN RESTAURANT
25 Nominations
WINNER: TRAVINIA
Runner Up: Solo NY Pizza
FAVORITE MEXICAN RESTAURANT
21 Nominations
WINNER: UNCLE JULIO’S
Runner Up: Anita’s
FAVORITE OUTDOOR DINING SPOT
34 Nominations
WINNER: CLYDE’S WILLOW CREEK FARM
Runner Up: Magnolia’s at the Mill
FAVORITE PLACE FOR BARBECUE
13 Nominations
WINNER: MONK’S BBQ
Runner Up: Mission BBQ
FAVORITE PLACE
50 Nominations
WINNER: FIREWORKS
Runner Up: Solo NY Pizza
FAVORITE PLACE FOR SEAFOOD
16 Nominations
WINNER: FORD’S FISH SHACK
Runner Up: King Street Oyster Bar
FAVORITE PLACE FOR SUSHI
26 Nominations
WINNER: JASMINE
Runner Up: Passion Fin
FAVORITE ROMANTIC DINING/DATE SPOT
25 Nominations
WINNER: MAGNOLIA’S AT
Runner Up: Lightfoot
FAVORITE SANDWICH SHOP
26 Nominations
WINNER: DELI SOUTH
Runner Up: South Street Under
FAVORITE WAITER/WAITRESS
7 Nominations
WINNER: JONI SMITH, SPANKY’S SHENANIGANS
Runner Up: Tammy Hines, Tammy’s Diner
FAVORITE WINERY
44 Nominations
WINNER: STONE TOWER WINERY
Runner Up: Bluemont Vineyard
FAVORITE PLACE FOR WINGS
40 Nominations
WINNER: BUFFALO WING FACTORY
Runner Up: Velocity Wings
PLACES
FAVORITE ART GALLERY
4 Nominations
WINNER: MEDLIN ART GALLERY
Runner Up: The Fine Gallery
FAVORITE BED & BREAKFAST
25 Nominations
WINNER: GOODSTONE INN
Runner Up: Red Fox Inn
FAVORITE BUSINESS EVENT VENUE
27 Nominations
WINNER: TRUMP NATIONAL GOLF COURSE
Runner Up: Lansdowne Resort & Spa
FAVORITE COMMUNITY CENTER
15 Nominations
WINNER: IDA LEE
RECREATION CENTER
Runner Up: Claude Moore Recreation Center
FAVORITE FARM
16 Nominations
WINNER: GREAT COUNTRY FARM
Runner Up: Wegmeyer Farm
FAVORITE FARMERS MARKET
12 Nominations
WINNER: LEESBURG FARMERS MARKET
Runner Up: One Loudoun Farmers Market
FAVORITE HISTORIC SITE
8 Nominations
WINNER: DOWNTOWN LEESBURG
Runner Up: Morven Park
FAVORITE HOTEL/RESORT
17 Nominations
WINNER: SALAMANDER RESORT & SPA
Runner Up: Lansdowne Resort & Spa
FAVORITE LIVE MUSIC VENUE
26 Nominations
WINNER: TALLY HO THEATER
Runner Up: Tarara Summer Concert Series
FAVORITE MOVIE THEATER
6 Nominations
WINNER: ALAMO DRAFTHOUSE
Runner Up: CMX Village 14 Cinemas
FAVORITE MUSEUM
6 Nominations
WINNER: UDVAR HAZY CENTER-
SMITHSONIAN AIR AND SPACE MUSEUM
Runner Up: George C. Marshall’s Dodona Manor
FAVORITE OVER 55 COMMUNITY
5 Nominations
WINNER: LANSDOWNE WOODS
Runner Up: Potomac Green, Ashburn
FAVORITE PARK
19 Nominations
WINNER: IDA LEE
Runner Up: Morven Park
FAVORITE PERFORMING ARTS VENUE
4 Nominations
WINNER: TALLY HO THEATER
Runner Up: Franklin Park Arts Center
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WINNER: SUSY FURR, LEESBURG STERLING FAMILY PRACTICE
Runner Up: Cecile Carson, Leesburg Sterling Family Practice
FAVORITE OPTOMETRIST
8 Nominations
WINNER: AYMAN BOUTROS, THE EYE CENTER
Runner Up: Greg McGrew, Eyecare Center of Leesburg
FAVORITE OPHTHALMOLOGIST
6 Nominations
WINNER: AYMAN BOUTROS, THE EYE CENTER
Runner Up: Claiborne Callahan, Leesburg
FAVORITE OPTICIAN
4 Nominations
WINNER: PAIGE BUSCEMA, EYETOPIA
Runner Up: Ayman Boutros, The Eye Center
FAVORITE ORTHODONTIST
8 Nominations
WINNER: NEIL KRAVITZ, KRAVITZ ORTHODONTICS
Runner Up: Matthew Hancock, Hancock Orthodontics
FAVORITE PEDIATRICIAN
12 Nominations
WINNER: JOHN FARRELL, SOUTH RIDING PEDIATRICS
Runner Up: Sandra Groeber, Town Pediatrics
FAVORITE PHYSICAL THERAPY PRACTICE
19 Nominations
WINNER: LOUDOUN PHYSICAL THERAPY
Runner Up: National Sports Medicine Institute
FAVORITE PLASTIC SURGEON
5 Nominations
WINNER: TIMOTHY MOUNTCASTLE, MOUNTCASTLE PLASTIC SURGERY
Runner Up: Behzad Parva, Parva Plastic Surgery
Peter A. Hutchinson 25 years experience
PURCELLVILLE
“I
— Brian Trump
FAVORITE PSYCHIATRIST
6 Nominations
WINNER: BEN CRAWFORD, RIVERSIDE COUNSELING
Runner Up: Malika Seth, Ashburn Psychological & Psychiatric Service
FAVORITE PSYCHOLOGIST
6 Nominations
WINNER: KAREN LARSON, KAREN LARSON & ASSOCIATES
Runner Up: Stacy Stickley, Potomac Psychological Center
FAVORITE PSYCHOTHERAPIST
5 Nominations
WINNER: SUZANNE NIXON, INTEGRATIVE COUNSELING AND RELATIONSHIP
Runner Up: Neil McNerney
FAVORITE WEIGHT LOSS CENTER
7 Nominations
WINNER: BEBALANCED HORMONE WEIGHT LOSS
Runner Up: Nova Physician Wellness Center
FAVORITE YOGA/PILATES INSTRUCTOR
9 Nominations
WINNER: MINDY BEACH, YOGA TIME STUDIO
Runner Up: Marta Phillips, BlueFit & Massage
FAVORITE ACCOUNTANT
14 Nominations
WINNER: JEFF MITCHELL, MITCHELL & CO. P.C.
Runner Up: Steven Caseres, Graham, Poirot & Caseres
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We appreciate your continued business and look forward to serving you and your family for many years to come. CELEBRATING 37 YEARS Shop our wide in stock selection of top brands for quick delivery.
FAVORITE
5 Nominations
WINNER:
Runner
FAVORITE
22 Nominations
WINNER: STILSON GREENE
Runner Up: Joan Gardner
FAVORITE ATTORNEY
43 Nominations
WINNER:
Runner Up: Robert E. Sevila, Sevila, Saunders, Huddleston & White
FAVORITE LOUDOUN BAND/
58 Nominations
WINNER: GARY SMALLWOOD
Runner Up: Summer & Eric
FAVORITE BANKER
9 Nominations
WINNER: ALICE P. FRAZIER, BCT THE COMMUNITY BANK
Runner Up: Betsy Bennett, Bank of Clarke
FAVORITE SPORTS COACH
17 Nominations
WINNER: MATT REIDENBAUGH, LCHS FOOTBALL
Runner Up: Joe Spicer, Woodgrove Softball
FAVORITE COMMERCIAL REALTOR
17 Nominations
WINNER: PETE HUTCHINSON, MPH REALTY
Runner Up: Rich Vaaler, Vaaler Real Estate
FAVORITE DANCE INSTRUCTOR
7 Nominations
WINNER: GERALYN WARD, THE DANCE ACADEMY OF LOUDOUN
Runner Up: Adam King, The Dance King
FAVORITE DJ
6 Nominations
WINNER: CERPHE COLWELL, MUSIC PLANET RADIO
Runner Up: Brian Trace, BLM Entertainment
FAVORITE ELECTRICIAN
6 Nominations
WINNER: BRIAN TRUMP, PURCELLVILLE ELECTRIC
Runner Up: Paul Kolb, Kolb Electric
FAVORITE EVENT PLANNER
8 Nominations
WINNER: RUSTY FOSTER, BOW TIE STRATEGIES
Runner Up: Tina Johnson, JP Events & Consulting
FAVORITE FINANCIAL ADVISOR
16 Nominations
WINNER: MARY SZABAT, BCT WEALTH ADVISORS
Runner Up: Tony Nerantzis, Raymond James
FAVORITE GOLF INSTRUCTOR
5 Nominations
WINNER: ROBYN JAMES, RASPBERRY GOLF ACADEMY
Runner Up: Jake Gray PGA, Tap In Golf
FAVORITE GRAPHIC ARTIST
4 Nominations
WINNER: STILSON GREENE
Runner Up: Jen Andos, Paperfish Creative
FAVORITE HOME BUILDER
9 Nominations
WINNER: DREW LAUTEN, LAUTEN CONSTRUCTION
Runner Up: Gary Van Ness, GW Van Ness Construction
FAVORITE INSURANCE AGENT
4 Nominations
WINNER: LANDY PATTON, STATE FARM
Runner Up: Keith Seekford, Moore and Clemens
FAVORITE INTERIOR DESIGNER
6 Nominations
WINNER: JULIE HOFFMAN, J & L INTERIORS
Runner Up: Kim Kendall, Kim Kendall Interiors
FAVORITE MASSAGE THERAPIST
8 Nominations
WINNER: CAROLINE O’NEIL, BODY BIRTH AND BABY
Runner Up: Samantha Burton, Loudoun Family Wellness
FAVORITE MECHANIC
12 Nominations
WINNER: JEFF WILMOTH, PROGRESSIVE AUTOMOTIVE & ALIGNMENT
Runner Up: Mike Rollison, Catoctin Automotive
FAVORITE MORTGAGE BROKER
8 Nominations
WINNER: ASHLEY SMITH, TRUIST
Runner Up: Steve Cowen, BCT Residential Lending
FAVORITE MUSIC INSTRUCTOR
5 Nominations
WINNER: BEVERLY TEAGUE, BEVERLY TEAGUE STUDIO
Runner Up: Wayne Estes, Catoctin School of Music
FAVORITE PERSONAL TRAINER
6 Nominations
WINNER: DIANA PAUL, DIANA’S FITNESS LAB
Runner Up: Ralph Ferraiolo, Ferraiolo Fitness
FAVORITE PHOTOGRAPHER
13 Nominations
WINNER: ALIYAH DASTOUR, ALIMOND PHOTOGRAPHY
Runner Up: Douglas Graham, Wild Light Photography
FAVORITE PICTURE FRAMER
3 Nominations
WINNER: SHIRLEY MEDLIN, MEDLIN ART GALLERY
Runner Up: Nick Gurban, Ashburn Art & Framint
FAVORITE FLYING INSTRUCTOR
2 Nominations
WINNER: KYLE MCDANIEL, COMMONWEALTH AVIATION
Runner Up: Raymond de Haan, Aviation Adventures
FAVORITE PLUMBER
6 Nominations
WINNER: DAVE ADAMS, ARTISAN PLUMBING
Runner Up: Paul Parmeter, Priority One
FAVORITE PUBLIC SERVANT
9 Nominations
WINNER: SHERIFF MIKE CHAPMAN
Runner Up: Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton
FAVORITE RESIDENTIAL REALTOR
28 Nominations
WINNER: GWEN PANGLE, COMPASS
Runner Up: Keren Jayne, Keren Jayne Homes
FAVORITE STONE MASON
6 Nominations
WINNER: DAVE
RATCLIFF, RATCLIFF’S MASONRY
Runner Up: Allen Cochran, Cochran’s Stone Masonry
FAVORITE TEACHER
27 Nominations
WINNER: ELAINE VOKETAITIS, LOUDOUN COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL
Runner Up: Jeannie Jens, Potomac Falls High School
FAVORITE TENNIS
INSTRUCTOR
5 Nominations
WINNER: KYLE DUNCAN, IDA LEE TENNIS CENTER
Runner Up: Mark Elliott, Ida Lee Tennis Center
FAVORITE VETERINARIAN
13 Nominations
WINNER: MICHAEL STRICKLAND, LEESBURG VETERINARY HOSPITAL
Runner Up: Jason Bollenbeck, Towne Animal Clinic
BUSINESSES
FAVORITE ANTIQUE STORE
5 Nominations
WINNER: OLD LUCKETTS STORE
Runner Up: Vintage Magnolia
FAVORITE APPLIANCE STORE
7 Nominations
WINNER: HOME DEPOT
Runner Up: Costco
FAVORITE BANK
24 Nominations
WINNER: BCT, THE COMMUNITY BANK
Runner Up: Bank of Clarke
FAVORITE BARBER SHOP
31 Nominations
WINNER: DARRELL’S BARBER SHOP
Runner Up: Micki’s Barber Shop
FAVORITE BEAUTY SPA
52 Nominations
WINNER: JENNY’S SALON
Runner Up: Amenity Day Spa
FAVORITE BICYCLE SHOP
8 Nominations
WINNER: PEDEGO ELECTRIC BIKES
Runner Up: Spokes, Etc.
FAVORITE BOOKKEEPING BUSINESS
2 Nominations
WINNER: YIELD BOOKKEEPING
Runner Up: R&R Bookkeeping Service
FAVORITE BOOK STORE
5 Nominations
WINNER: BARNES & NOBLE
Runner Up: Birch Tree Books
FAVORITE CAR REPAIR SHOP
56 Nominations
WINNER: VIP AUTOMOTIVE
Runner Up: Catoctin Automotive
Thank you Loudoun County for choosing us as your #1 Florist We are honored for your continued support through the years. We look forward to serving your future needs. Jerry’s doesn’t just have flowers.
Stop by and check out our wide selection of unique gifts!
FAVORITE CAR WASH
11 Nominations
WINNER: FLAGSHIP, ONE LOUDOUN
Runner Up: BriteWash, Leesburg
FAVORITE CARPET CLEANER
3 Nominations
WINNER: LOUDOUN VALLEY FLOORS
Runner Up: Ayoub Carpet
FAVORITE CATERING COMPANY
22 Nominations
WINNER: SAVOIR FARE
Runner Up: Smokin Willy BBQ
FAVORITE CHILD CARE/ PRESCHOOL
42 Nominations
WINNER: LEESBURG OPEN ARMS
Runner Up: Chesterbrook Academy
FAVORITE CHILDREN’S CLOTHING STORE
6 Nominations
WINNER: KOHL’S
Runner Up: 529 Kids Consign
FAVORITE CLEANING SERVICE
14 Nominations
WINNER: YOU’VE GOT MAIDS
Runner Up: Maid Brigade
FAVORITE COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE BROKERAGE
16 Nominations
WINNER: VAALER REAL ESTATE
Runner Up: MPH Realty Partners
FAVORITE CONSIGNMENT SHOP
6 Nominations
WINNER: RE LOVE IT
Runner Up: Consignment Solutions
FAVORITE CONSTRUCTION COMPANY
19 Nominations
WINNER: ALAIR HUNT COUNTRY HOMES
Runner Up: CaseCo
FAVORITE DANCE STUDIO
12 Nominations
WINNER: THE DANCE ACADEMY OF LOUDOUN
Runner Up: Creative Dance Center
FAVORITE DRIVEWAY REPAIR COMPANY
5 Nominations
WINNER: LUCKETTS EXCAVATING
Runner Up: Collegiate Sealers
FAVORITE DRY CLEANER
19 Nominations
WINNER: PURCELLVILLE CLEANERS
Runner Up: Cleaner 4 Less
FAVORITE ELECTRICAL COMPANY
21 Nominations
WINNER: PURCELLVILLE ELECTRIC
Runner Up: Dr. Watts Electrical Service
FAVORITE ELECTRONICS STORE
3 Nominations
WINNER: BEST BUY
Runner Up: Costco
FAVORITE EVENT PLANNING COMPANY
8 Nominations
WINNER: BOW TIE STRATEGIES
Runner Up: The Market Group
FAVORITE EQUESTRIAN FACILITY
9 Nominations
WINNER: MORVEN PARK
Runner Up: Red Gate Farm
FAVORITE EVENT PHOTOGRAPHY COMPANY
18 NOMINATIONS
WINNER: MADDY WILLIAMS PHOTOGRAPHY
VM Runner Up: Allimond Studios
FAVORITE EXCAVATING COMPANY
6 Nominations
WINNER: LUCKETTS EXCAVATING
Runner Up: Leo Construction/Excavating
for voting Loudoun County Public Library a favorite government service! Free online resources are available 24/7 at library.loudoun.gov/online
“Because of BeBalanced, I am 50 pounds lighter and have kept the weight off for over five years! Also, I have so much more energy, I sleep better, and I don’t wake up soaked in sweat like I used to. I am excited to help the women of Loudoun County on their journey to better health and wellbeing.” - Jan, Owner
Loudoun’s Favorite Government Service, the Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office
“I am extraordinarily proud of this recognition for our Sheriff’s Office and grateful once again for the strong support from our Loudoun County community. I would put our outstanding team up against any law enforcement agency in the nation.”
Sheriff Mike Chapman
Loudoun’s Favorite Public Servant
FAVORITE FARM MARKET VENDOR
15 Nominations
WINNER: WEGMEYER FARMS
Runner Up: Potomac Vegetable Farm
FAVORITE FARM STORE
3 Nominations
WINNER: SOUTHERN STATES
Runner Up: Tractor Supply
FAVORITE FARM EQUIPMENT CENTER
5 Nominations
WINNER: BROWNING EQUIPMENT
Runner Up: Tractor Supply
FAVORITE FASHION ACCESSORY STORE
15 Nominations
WINNER: MADISONBELLE
Runner Up: Eyetopia
FAVORITE FITNESS CENTER
48 Nominations
WINNER: PLANET FITNESS
Runner Up: Ida Lee Recreation Center
FAVORITE FLIGHT SCHOOL
3 Nominations
WINNER: AERO ELITE FLIGHT TRAINING
Runner Up: Aviation Adventures
FAVORITE FLOORING COMPANY
8 Nominations
WINNER: LOUDOUN VALLEY FLOORS
Runner Up: Ayoub Carpet Store
FAVORITE FLORIST
16 Nominations
WINNER: JERRY’S FLORIST
Runner Up: Purcellville Florist
FAVORITE FRAMING STORE
8 Nominations
WINNER: MEDLIN ART GALLERY
Runner Up: Hobby Lobby
FAVORITE FUNERAL HOME
6 Nominations
WINNER: HALL FUNERAL HOME
Runner Up: Colonial Funeral Home
FAVORITE FURNITURE STORE
6 Nominations
WINNER: BELFORT
Runner Up: The Guest Room
FAVORITE GOLF COURSE
12 Nominations
WINNER: TRUMP NATIONAL
Runner Up: Raspberry Falls Golf Club
FAVORITE GRANITE COMPANY
8 Nominations
WINNER: LOUDOUN GRANITE & MARBLE
Runner Up: Sky Marble & Granite
FAVORITE GROCERY STORE
12 Nominations
WINNER: WEGMAN’S
Runner Up: Harris Teeter
FAVORITE HAIR SALON
64 Nominations
WINNER: JENNY’S SALON
Runner Up: Affini & Co. Luxury Hair Lounge
FAVORITE HANDYMAN SERVICE
10 Nominations
WINNER: INTEGRITY HOME SERVICES
Runner Up: Fix It Home and Repair
FAVORITE HARDWARE STORE
5 Nominations
WINNER: NICHOLS HARDWARE
FAVORITE JUNK REMOVAL COMPANY
3 Nominations
WINNER: 123 JUNK
FESTIVAL Leesburg Flower & Garden Festival
SWIMMING POOL AV Symington Aquatic Center
COMMUNITY CENTER Ida Lee Park Recreation Center
RECREATION CENTER Ida Lee Park Recreation Center
PARK Ida Lee Park
PLACE TO PLAY TENNIS Ida Lee Park Tennis Center
TENNIS INSTRUCTOR Kyle Duncan
TENNIS INSTRUCTOR Mark Elliott (Runner Up)
Runner Up: Home Depot
FAVORITE HOME IMPROVEMENT CONTRACTOR
25 Nominations
WINNER: JOHN NUGENT & SONS
Runner Up: Blue Ridge Remodeling
FAVORITE HVAC COMPANY
27 Nominations
WINNER: CLIMATIC HEATING & COOLING
Runner Up: ME Flow
FAVORITE INSPECTION STATION
28 Nominations
WINNER: AUTO SOLUTIONS
Runner Up: Walsh’s VIP Auto Service
FAVORITE INSULATION COMPANY
3 Nominations
WINNER: COMFENERGY
Runner Up: Absolution Insulations
FAVORITE INSURANCE COMPANY
21 Nominations
WINNER: USAA
Runner Up: State Farm
FAVORITE INVESTMENT COMPANY
23 Nominations
WINNER: MERRILL LYNCH
Runner Up: Raymond James
FAVORITE JEWELRY STORE
5 Nominations
WINNER: KETTERMAN’S JEWELERS
Runner Up: Hunt Country Jewelers
Runner Up: Pack Rat Hauling
FAVORITE KIDS ACTIVITY/ PARTY PLACE
15 Nominations
WINNER: GREAT COUNTRY FARMS
Runner Up: Leesburg Animal Park
FAVORITE LANDSCAPING COMPANY
28 Nominations
WINNER: BLAKE LANDSCAPING
Runner Up: Meadows Farm
FAVORITE LAWN CARE COMPANY
16 Nominations
WINNER: BLAKE LANDSCAPING
Runner Up: Epling Landscaping & Lawn
FAVORITE LAWN AND GARDEN CENTER
8 Nominations
WINNER: ABERNETHY & SPENCER
GREENHOUSE & GARDEN CENTER
Runner Up: Meadows Farm
FAVORITE LIMO COMPANY/ CAR SERVICE
6 Nominations
WINNER: RESTON LIMO
Runner Up: Chariots for Hire
FAVORITE LUMBER YARD
4 Nominations
WINNER: TW PERRY
Runner Up: Loudoun Lumber
YEARS THE
HVAC company in Loudoun County
Thank you very much for voting us your and for voting us your favorite PICTURE FRAMER also runner up for Specialty Store!
It is an honor to celebrate our 40th anniversary with the community. We count our blessings for the many friends we have made. We have the largest collection of art and frame samples in Leesburg and beyond.
In Addition To Our Award Winning Custom Framing We Proudly Offer: Original Paintings & Limited Edition Prints By Local & Internationally Known Artists Antique Prints, Maps Etchings & Engravings
WINNER:
Runner
3 Nominations
WINNER:
Runner
Runner
FAVORITE
47 Nominations
WINNER:
Live Life.... Pain Free!
Firefly Acupuncture and Wellness, led by Rachal Lohr, LAc., seamlessly blends the time-tested science of acupuncture with more innovative, medical solutions in order to achieve measurable, long-lasting results!
umbness
Acupuncture and Wellness are here to help you live a life free from pain
Our passion is to provide the Loudoun County community with effective treatment solutions for complex, often difficult-to-treat conditions and chronic pain!
Whether it’s the numbness and tingling from your NEUROPATHY, the painful burning sensation that accompanies SCIATICA, or the unbearable swelling and stiffness of your joints from ARTHRITIS, the team at Firefly
FAW｜Firefly Acupuncture & Wellness, has set the standard for the highest and most effective acupuncture and integrative medical care in Loudoun County We are here to provide lifechanging treatments so you can Reclaim Your Health and get back to doing the things you LOVE.
Imagine Relief!
Led by Rachal Lohr, Lic Ac , Firefly pioneers cutting-edge medical solutions blended with the time-proven wisdom of traditional East Asian medicine to provide our patients with unparalleled care while achieving measurable, long-lasting results!
Imagine increased Energy! Imagine a healthcare team and a community of people who not only understand your condition but can truly Support and Sympathize with You!
Thank you for trusting us with your health and wellness and voting us Loudoun's Favorite Acupuncturist YEAR After YEAR!
We are Humbled & Honored to be your FAVORITE ACUPUNCTURIST & RUNNER UP FAVORITE ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE PROVIDER 6 Years in a Row!
Our aim is to provide you with pain-relieving treatments so that you can LIVE LIFE TO THE FULLEST! Call (703)263-2142 today to take advantage of our limited-time FREE Consultation offer by August 1st, simply mention Loudoun NOW’s Favorites
Rachal Lohr, L.Ac.
Thank You Loudoun County for Voting Keith Seekford #2 Insurance Agent
Moore, Clemens & Co. Inc.
Loudoun’s oldest Insurance Agency. Service, Savings and Solutions since 1905
703-777-1275
FAVORITE NEW CAR DEALERSHIP
22 Nominations
WINNER: LEESBURG TOYOTA AUTONATION
Runner Up: Dulles Motorcars
FAVORITE PAINTING COMPANY
3 Nominations
WINNER: JOE FLEMING PAINTING
Runner Up: Manor Works Painting
FAVORITE PEST CONTROL COMPANY
3 Nominations
WINNER: COUNTRY PEST CONTROL
Runner Up: Savage Pest Control
FAVORITE PET GROOMING BUSINESS
16 Nominations
WINNER: CANINE CAROUSEL
Runner Up: Amanda’s Regal Canine
FAVORITE PET KENNEL
11 Nominations
WINNER: BLUE RIDGE VETERINARY ASSOCIATES
Runner Up: Old Mill Boarding Kennel
FAVORITE PET SITTING BUSINESS
9 Nominations
WINNER: WOOFIES
Runner Up: Animal Au Paws of Loudoun
FAVORITE PET STORE
7 Nominations
WINNER: DOGGONE NATURAL
Runner Up: Petsmart, Leesburg
FAVORITE PLUMBING COMPANY
14 Nominations
WINNER: PRIORITY ONE
Runner Up: Artisan Plumbing
FAVORITE RADIO STATION
14 Nominations
WINNER: MUSIC PLANET RADIO
Runner Up: WMAL
FAVORITE REALTOR GROUP OR TEAM
9 Nominations
WINNER: THE REYNOLDS TEAM, KELLER WILLLIAMS
Runner Up: Extraordinary Transitions of Long & Foster
FAVORITE RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE BROKERAGE
14 Nominations
WINNER: COMPASS
Runner Up: Century 21 Redwood Realty
FAVORITE ROOFING COMPANY
11 Nominations
WINNER: LOUDOUN VALLEY ROOFING
Runner Up: Hartley Home Exteriors
FAVORITE SOLAR POWER COMPANY
4 Nominations
WINNER: LOUDOUN SOLAR
Runner Up: Mountain View Solar
FAVORITE SPECIALTY STORE
18 Nominations
WINNER: VERY VIRGINIA SHOP
Runner Up: Medlin Art Gallery
FAVORITE STORE FOR GIFTS
23 Nominations
WINNER: KETTERMAN’S JEWELERS
Runner Up: Eyetopia
Lansdowne Woods is a unique neighborhood for active adults offering spacious condominium homes, resort-style living, hundreds of activities for a rich social life, as well as an abundance of outdoors space for walking, gardening, and solitude. The amenities are robust with a state-ofthe-art fitness center including a gym, indoor saltwater pool, whirlpool, and sauna. The clubhouse hosts professional entertainment on stage, multiple studios for the arts, and a rooftop sports court with pickleball, tennis, and bocce ball. Lansdowne Woods is a great place to live!
LANSDOWNE WOODS of Virginia is honored to be voted #1
36 Catoctin Cir SE, Ste A, Leesburg, VA 20175
Monday-Friday 10am to 6pm
Saturday 10am to 4pm
Sunday 11am to 3pm swimgeminc.com | 703 777 7703
“THANK
At Swim Gem, we provide top-notch swimming pool services to residential pool owners. With over 40 years of experience, we offer weekly and bi-weekly cleaning and maintenance, Spring start-up, equipment installation and repair, automation upgrades, safety cover installation and more. Our innovative digital reporting keeps you informed every step of the way. Whether you need new owner orientation, vacation pool care or end-of-season winterization, Swim Gem is here to ensure your pool remains a source of enjoyment. Trust the experts who have been making pool ownership easier and more enjoyable since 1978.
Swim Gem - Your Pool Care Experts Since 1978
FAVORITE SWIMMING POOL SUPPLY STORE
2 Nominations
WINNER: SWIM GEM
Runner Up: Total Pools
FAVORITE TANNING SALON
5 Nominations
WINNER: GLO STUDIO TANNING
Runner Up: Palm Beach Tanning
FAVORITE THRIFT STORE
10 Nominations
WINNER: BLUE RIDGE HOSPICE
Runner Up: Resoureful Woman
FAVORITE TITLE COMPANY
10 Nominations
WINNER: STOCKMAN TITLE & ESCROW
Runner Up: Champion Title & Settlements
FAVORITE TREE SERVICE
14 Nominations
WINNER: DONEGAN’S TREE SERVICE
Runner Up: Arbor Artists
FAVORITE TUTOR SERVICE
7 Nominations
WINNER: C2 EDUCATIONS
Runner Up: Loudoun Test Prep
FAVORITE USED CAR DEALERSHIP
12 Nominations
WINNER: H & H USED CARS
Runner Up: Carmax
FAVORITE VETERINARY PRACTICE
22 Nominations
WINNER: LEESBURG VETERINARY HOSPITAL
Runner Up: Blue Ridge Veterinary Associates
FAVORITE WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY COMPANY
16 Nominations
WINNER: MADDY WILLIAMS PHOTOGRAPHY
Runner Up: Joylyn Hannahs Photography
FAVORITE WEDDING PLANNING COMPANY
9 Nominations
WINNER: CELEBRATIONS MADE SIMPLE
Runner Up: The Finer Points
FAVORITE WOMEN’S CLOTHING STORE
10 Nominations
WINNER: MISGUIDED ANGELS
Runner Up: Madisonbelle
FAVORITE YOGA/PILATES STUDIO
9 Nominations
WINNER: YOGA TIME
Runner Up: Easy Day Yoga
Thank you Loudoun County!
LoudounNow WINNER LOUDOUN’S FAVORITE 2024
Grateful To Be Chosen As Your Favorite Psychotherapist for the past 6 Years."
“It’s my honor to serve our community helping individuals, couples and families enhance their health & well-being. Yes, you can create a happy, productive and fulfilling life!
Time flies when you visit the National Air and Space Museum’s Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Northern Virginia. Explore the Museum’s vast and iconic collection, and you’ll feel like you’ve earned your wings. Free admission, parking $15.
Suzanne Nixon
Thank You Readers!
Each year the Loudoun’s Favorites poll is among our favorite projects. It is an opportunity to shine a special spotlight on what makes our county a great place to live and work.
Thanks goes especially to our readers for taking the time to thoughtfully share their recommendations—yes, many did make their way through all 200-plus categories, which is no small feat. That effort makes our community stronger and, we hope, better informed about the treasures right in our backyards.
Rai's Rendezvous: A Food and Entertainment Hub in Ashburn
Quattro Goombas Brewery, 22860 James Monroe Highway, Aldie. quattrogoombas.com
JIM STEELE
5 to 8 p.m. Friday, July 26
Vanish Farmwoods Brewery, 42245 Black Hops Lane, Lucketts. vanishbeer.com
BRADLEY RHODES
5 to 8 p.m. Friday, July 26
Lark Brewing Co., 24205 James Monroe Hwy., Aldie larkbrewingco.com
MUSIC continues on page 14
BY ALEXIS GUSTIN agustin@loudounnow.org
Basil and Jenna Kuhn are no strangers to the restaurant busines in Northern Virginia. They own and operate four restaurants between Loudoun and Fairfax—Sully’s Pour House in Herndon, Rai’s Pizza, and Rai’s Pour House in Sterling and their newest restaurant that opened in October, Rai’s Rendezvous in Ashburn.
The Ashburn project started out as just a restaurant, but has transformed over the past two months.
“We opened up more as a restaurant focus and what we realized is people want more of an entertainment venue,” Basil Kuhn said. “So, our goal is to be somewhere for people to come and be entertained. Literally every day of the week there is something different going on and to have great food and drinks while you are doing it.”
Rai’s Rendezvous offers something for everyone with karaoke nights, line dancing, live music on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights, beer pong, cigars and bourbon nights, car shows, boxing matches, micro wrestling and themed party nights and coming soon, a members-only speakeasy with a hidden entrance.
Kuhn said the goal is to get the speakeasy up and running in time for football season.
Kuhn said they started offering line dancing at Sully’s a few months ago and it took off, so they decided to bring it to Ashburn. He said the Rai’s Rendezvous space was much bigger and invited the teacher to do a class June 3. He said it was a hit and they plan to do it more.
He said their most popular event so far has been the themed nights. Their most recent one, held July 19, was a foam night that included neon lights, a large foam machine and a DJ.
“We want to be essentially the Mecca of entertainment. No matter what it is there is always something to do,” he said.
They revamped the outdoor patio space to include a bar, seating for over 100, three cabanas, multiple televisions, tables with built in fire pits, and a colorful stage area painted
by Chilean-born DC artist and muralist Rodrigo Pradel.
Pradel has done the artwork in all of the Rai’s restaurants and includes nods to the lives of Basil and Jenna and their children.
Katelyn Koback and Logan Bonjour—district managers of WTF (Where’s the Food) Restaurant Group, which is the parent company to the Rai’s restaurant chain—said they completely made over the outdoor space from a “very bland patio” into a colorful and functional one.
They said they plan to use it year round with fans and misters during the summer and portable heating units in the winter. Bonjour said they are also
looking to bring in a table with a builtin fire pit for the chilly months and said eventually the patio will be fully covered by a roof.
Kuhn said their goal is to have something entertaining going on simultaneously inside and on the patio.
“It’s something different for everyone. For example, on Saturday we have a beer pong tournament inside and outside we have a live band, so its two different things for different people,” he said.
They also plan to bring in comedians, a Magic Mike live show, dueling
RAI'S RENDEZVOUS continues on page 16
Segra Field to Host Water Wars on Saturday
Have you been honing your water gun skills in the backyard during the heat wave? You can put them to the test on Saturday as Segra Field hosts its inaugural Water Wars event.
From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., kids up to age 16 will take over the stadium for water battles and other wet activities, including inflatable slip’n slides. Participants should bring their own water guns. A toddler
area will be sectioned off on the field for younger participants. A $15 admission charge is required for all participants. Pre-registration is required at tinyurl.com/ segrawaterwars.
Spectators will be admitted at no charge. Parking is free.
Concessions will be available for purchase during this event. No outside food or beveragse will be allowed into the stadium. n
Alexis Gustin/Loudoun Now
Rai’s Rendezvous owner Basil Kuhn, left, district managers Logan Bonjour and Katelyn Koback stand next to a mural on the patio where musicians perform live. The mural was painted by Washington, DC, artist and muralist Rodrigo Pradel.
POLO IN THE PARK
Saturday, July 27, 6 to 10 p.m.
Morven Park International Equestrian Center polointhepark.org
Enjoy the cool evening outdoors watching Morven Park’s fast-paced arena polo series. Reserve your car pass.
GET OUT
LIVE MUSIC
continued from page 13
TY BURKHARDT
5:30 to 8 p.m. Friday, July 26 Willowcroft Farm Vineyards, 38906 Mount Gilead Road, Leesburg. willowcroftwine.com
PART OF IT ALL
5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, July 26
Lost Barrel Brewing, 36138 Little River Turnpike, Middleburg. lostbarrel.com
DON'T LOOK UP
6 to 10 p.m. Friday, July 26 Hillsboro Old Stone School, 37098 Charles Town Pike, Hillsboro. oldstoneschool.org
ONE BLUE NIGHT
6 to 9 p.m. Friday, July 26 Flying Ace Farm, 40950 Flying Ace Lane, Lovettsville. flyingacefarm.com
JASON MASI
6 to 8 p.m. Friday, July 26
8 Chains North Winery, 38593 Daymont Lane, Waterford. 8chainsnorth.com
7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, July 27 43003 Waxpool Road, 43003 Waxpool Road, Ashburn. $95. trisignup.com
HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE COLLECTION
8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Saturday, July 27
Lovettsville Elementary School, 49 S. Loudoun St., Lovettsville.
loudoun.gov/hhw
CARS AND CRUISERS
11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, July 27
Loudoun Station, 43751 Central Station Drive, Ashburn. loudounstation.com
POLO IN THE PARK
6 to 10 p.m. Saturday, July 27
Morven Park International Equestrian Center, 41580 Sunday Morning Lane, Leesburg. $40. morvenpark.org
COMEDY NIGHT
7 p.m. Saturday, July 27
9:30 p.m. Saturday, July 27 Tally Ho Theater, Leesburg. $20. tallyhotheater.com
BUTTERFLY WALK AT SWEET RUN
9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Sunday, July 28 Sweet Run State Park/Sawmill Entrance, 11661 Harpers Ferry Road, Hillsboro.
loudounwildlife.org
INTERNATIONAL FLY FISHING FILM FESTIVAL
10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, July 28, National Sporting Library, 102 The Plains Road, Middleburg. $10 to $25. nationalsporting.org
HILLSBORO FARMERS MARKET
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, July 28 Hillsboro Old Stone School, 37098
HAPPENINGS continues on page 16
Rai's Rendezvous
continued from page 13
pianos, and, hopefully, some bigger named artists.
Menu items include some pub items, like smashburgers and trash can nachos, but they also have more elevated offerings like pork belly and grilled chicken, according to Bonjour.
“We could be classified as a sports bar, but we do a lot more than that. Whenever you have so many TVs, people are going to automatically say sports bar. But our menu is definitely elevated,” he said.
Both Bonjour and Koback said their favorite menu item is the smashburger.
“It’s two three-ounce patties smashed. It has grilled white onions and American cheese and then you can customize it from there,” Bonjour said, including the special sauce. “It’s our Big Mac sauce, our secret sauce,” he said.
Bonjour also said their popular Philly cheesesteak, which is frequently sold out at their other restaurants, will soon be on the menu at Rai’s Rendezvous.
They have five house beers that are consistent across all their locations and offer a variety of local brews from Honor Brewing Company and Solace Brewing Company.
“Most of our beers are local,” Koback said.
Rai’s Rendezvous is located at 44042 Pipeline Plaza in Ashburn, its open seven days a week starting at 11 a.m. Happy hour is every day and runs from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. inside and 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. outside on the patio. Advanced reservations aren’t required, even to use the cabana space but Kuhn said for big ticket items like comedy shows, the Magic Mike show and micro wrestling, advanced tickets will be required.
Learn more at raisrendezvous.com.n
GET OUT HAPPENINGS
continued from page 15
Charles Town Pike, Hillsboro. oldstoneschool.org
THE SIGNIFICANCE OF STREAMS
1 to 3 p.m. Sunday, July 28
Chapman DeMary Trail, 355 N. Hatcher Ave., Purcellville. purcellvilleva.gov
BUTTERFLY WALK
9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, July 30
Banshee Reeks Nature Preserve, 21085 The Woods Road, Leesburg. loudounwildlife.org
9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Aug. 1-4, Emmanuel Episcopal Church, 105 E. Washington St., Middleburg. emmanuelmiddleburg.org
Alexis Gustin/Loudoun Now Rai’s Rendezvous opened in October but has recently transformed its model from just a restaurant to an entertainment and food venue.
Please visit www.leesburgva.gov/jobs for more information and to apply online. Resumes may be submitted as supplemental only. EOE/ADA.
TOWN OF LEESBURG
NOTICE OF TOWN COUNCIL PUBLIC HEARING
Legal Notices
TO CONSIDER REZONING APPLICATION TLZM-2021-0012 AND SPECIAL EXCEPTION APPLICATION TLSE-2021-0005
RUSSELL BRANCH RETAIL
Pursuant to Sections 15.2-1427, 15.2-2204, 15.2-2205 and 15.2-2285 of the Code of Virginia, 1950, as amended, the LEESBURG TOWN COUNCIL will hold a public hearing on TUESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. in the Town Council Chambers, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia 20176, to consider Rezoning application TLZM-2021-0012 and Special Exception application TLSE2021-0005, Russell Branch Retail.
The entirety of the subject property consists of approximately 11.6 acres of developed land located at the intersection (southeast corner) of East Market Street (Route 7) and Battlefield Parkway. The property is zoned Community Retail/Commercial (B-3) and is further identified as Loudoun County Property Identification Numbers (PINs) 149-45-9235, 149-45-3326, 149-45-5741, 149-45-7258, 14945-5613, 149-45-7402. The property also lies within the Gateway District (Overlay), and the Eastern Gateway District Small Area Plan (EGDSAP).
Rezoning Application TLZM-2021-0012 is a request by Russell Branch Retail, LC to amend the Concept Plan and Proffers of approved rezoning TLZM-2018-0003. This application proposes a new alternative concept plan layout for Land Bay C (approximately 2.2 acres) that accommodates a restaurant with drive through and retains the previously approved layout which accommodates two retail buildings. Proffers will also be updated to reflect the revised layout and carry forward any unfulfilled proffers.
Special Exception Application TLSE-2021-0005 is a request by Russell Branch Retail, LC for an Eating Establishment with Drive-In Facility within the Community Commercial/Retail (B-3) district up to 2,800 square feet pursuant to Town of Leesburg Zoning Ordinance (TLZO) Sec. 6.5.2.
The subject property is located in what the Legacy Leesburg Town Plan (LLTP) describes as an “Area to Transform or Evolve” on the Area Based Land Use Initiatives Map (LLTP pg. 72). The property is further designated within LLTP as a “Retail Center” on the Character Areas for Preservation and Change Map (LLTP pg. 76). There is no Floor Area Ratio (F.A.R.) for commercial uses associated with a Retail Center within LLTP. The proposed commercial F.A.R. of Land Bay C is 0.03 under the single building alternative and 0.10 under the two building alternative.
The application also includes two (2) requested modifications to the requirements of the Town of Leesburg Zoning Ordinance (TLZO) regulations related to buffer yards and loading space requirements.
Additional information and copies of these two applications are available at the Department of Community Development 222 Catoctin Circle, Suite 200, Leesburg, Virginia, 20176, during normal business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.), or by contacting Scott E. Parker, AICP, at 703-771-2771 or sparker@leesburgva.gov.
At these hearings, all persons desiring to express their views concerning these matters will be heard. Persons requiring special accommodations at the meeting should contact the Clerk of the Council at (703) 771-2733 three days in advance of the meeting. For TTY/TDD service, use the Virginia Relay Center by dialing 711.
7/25 & 8/1/24
TOWN OF LEESBURG
NOTICE OF PLANNING COMMISSION PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER REZONING APPLICATION TLREZN2023-0001 OAKLAWN LAND BAYS A AND MUC2, AND TLSPEX2023-0001 OAKLAWN FLEX INDUSTRIAL/BUSINESS PARK
Pursuant to Sections 15.2-1427, 15.2-2204, 15.2-2205 and 15.2-2285 of the Code of Virginia, 1950, as amended, the LEESBURG PLANNING COMMISSION will hold a public hearing on THURSDAY, AUGUST 1, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. in the Town Council Chambers, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia 20176, to consider Rezoning application TLREZN2023-0001 Oaklawn Land Bays A and MUC2, and special exception application TLSPEX2023-0001 Oaklawn Flex Industrial/Business Park.
The Subject Properties are in the Oaklawn development and consist of three parcels totaling approximately 32.0278 acres and are further identified as Loudoun County Property Identification Numbers (PIN) 233-38-8942, 233-30-4276 and 233-30-1486. The Subject Properties are zoned PEC (Planned Employment Center District) and PRN (Planned Residential Neighborhood District) and subject to the H-2 Historic Corridor Architectural Control Overlay District (Proffered).
Rezoning Application TLREZN2023-0001 is a request by Oaklawn LLC to revise the concept plan and proffers for TLZM-2014-0004 for Land Bay A and TLZM-2015-0001 for MUC-2 to allow the following:
Land Bay A: Permit development of up to 700,000 square feet of data center use with associated electric utility substation, or public utility, major on Land Bay A.
Land Bay MUC2: Permit the development of up to 184 multi-family affordable dwelling units on Land Bay MUC-2.
Both land bays are located in areas described by the Legacy Leesburg Town Plan (Town Plan) as an “Area to Transform or Evolve” on the Area Based Land Use Initiatives Map (Town Plan page 72). The property is further designated as a “Innovation Center” on the Character Areas for Preservation and Change Map (Town Plan page 76). There is no recommended density for residential use or a Floor Area Ratio (F.A.R.) for uses associated with an Innovation Center. The requested density for the residential units associated with Land Bay MUC2 is approximately 33 dwelling units per acre. The proposed maximum commercial F.A.R. of Land Bay A is approximately 0.61.
Special Exception Application TLSPEX2023-0001 is a request by Oaklawn LLC for a Special Exception to allow up to 400,000 square feet of Flex Industrial/Business Park use, pursuant to Town of Leesburg Zoning Ordinance (TLZO) Section 8.6.4.B Special Exception Uses.
Modifications: The applications include six (6) requested modifications to the requirements of the Town of Leesburg Zoning Ordinance regulations for buffers, setbacks, number of parking spaces, outdoor lighting, and open space.
Additional information and copies of these two applications are available at the Department of Community Development, 222 Catoctin Circle, Suite 200, Leesburg, Virginia, 20176, during normal business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.), or by contacting Christopher Murphy, AICP, at 703-737-7009 or cmurphy@leesburgva.gov.
At these hearings, all persons desiring to express their views concerning these matters will be heard. Persons requiring special accommodation at the meeting should contact the Clerk of the Commission at (703) 771-2434 three days in advance of the meeting. For TTY/TDD service, use the Virginia Relay Center by dialing 711.
7/18, 7/25/2024
LOUDOUN COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
NOTICE OF IMPOUNDMENT OF
ABANDONED BICYCLE
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. DESCRIPTION
ORANGE GARY FISHER MOUNTAIN BIKE SER #TBI1123C54DK338 SO240011635 6/27/2024 20952 LOHENGRIN CT ASHBURN VA 20147 571-367-8400
7/18, 7/25/2024
Legal Notices
ORDER OF PUBLICATION
CIRCUIT COURT OF LOUDOUN COUNTY
Case No.: CL24-3461
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF LOUDOUN COUNTY CIRCUIT COURT, VIRGINIA, Petitioner, v.
UNKNOWN OWNERS who may include: HEIRS, AT LAW, DEVISEES OR SUCCESSORS IN TITLE OF THOMAS R. KEITH AND HEIRS, AT LAW, DEVISEES OR SUCCESSORS IN TITLE OF ANN KEITH DRAKE fka ANN GORDON KEITH and HEIRS, AT LAW, DEVISEES OR SUCCESSORS IN TITLE OF HANNAH MORRIS KEITH and HEIRS, AT LAW, DEVISEES OR SUCCESSORS IN TITLE OF MARGARET RANDOLPH KEITH and
5,638 square feet or 0.1294 acre, more or less, in fee simple over an existing private road known as Lenah Farm Lane, near Little River Turnpike (Route 50) located in the Little River Election District, Loudoun County, Virginia.
The object of the above-styled proceeding is to acquire, by condemnation, a certain portion of land in fee simple over an existing private road known as Lenah Farm Lane, near Little River Turnpike (Route 50) for the purpose of construction, reconstruction, alteration, maintenance and/or repair of a hybrid roundabout as part of the County’s Route 50 and Trailhead Drive Roundabout Project in the Little River Election District, together with all other purposes incidental to the project, and to apply for the empanelment of jurors, the appointment of commissioners, or the application to the Court to ascertain just compensation for the land in fee simple, all being more particularly described in the Petition for Condemnation filed in this Court on the 18th day of June, 2024. The property is owned by Uknown Owners, is not assessed for tax purposes, and has not been assigned a Loudoun County tax assessment parcel number. The property lies east of properties that have been assigned the following tax assessment parcel numbers: PIN 286-40-4789-000 and PIN 285-10-4331-000 and it lies west of properties that have been assigned the following tax assessment parcel PIN 286-40-6589-000, PIN 286-40-8479-000 and PIN 245-15-3140-000, among the Land Records of the Loudoun County Circuit Court Clerk’s Office.
And it appearing by affidavit filed according to law that the following owners are not residents of the Commonwealth of Virginia, or their names and addresses are not known and that diligence has been used by and on behalf of the Petitioner to ascertain such names and addresses without effect: Heirs at Law, Devisees or Successors in Title of Thomas R. Keith, Heirs at Law, Devisees or Successors in Title of Ann Keith Drake, fka Ann Gordon Keith, Heirs at Law, Devisees or Successors in Title of Hannah Morris Keith, Heirs at Law, Devisees or Successors in Title of Margaret Randolph Keith and the heirs at law, devisees or successors in title of and to any of the foregoing persons who may be deceased or may have conveyed their interest in the property, together with any persons unknown to Petitioner who owned an interest in the property or who may have a claim to compensation under the Certificate of Take recorded December 28, 2023 in the land records of this Court as Instrument No. 23231228-0051432, all of whom are collectively identified as “Unknown Owners.” Therefore, it is ORDERED that the aforesaid owners make an appearance in this matter within ten (10) days after due publication of this Order in the Clerk’s Office of the Circuit Court of Loudoun County, Virginia and do what is necessary to protect their interests. It is further ORDERED that if the above named owners desire to assert any objection or defense to the taking of the property or to the jurisdiction of the Court to hear the case and to proceed with the empanelment of jurors, the appointment of commissioners, or the application to the Court to ascertain just compensation, they shall file their answer and grounds of defense designating the property in which they claim to be interested, the grounds of any objection or defense to the taking of their property or the jurisdiction of the Court to hear the case to proceed with the empanelment of jurors, the appointment of commissioners, or the application to the Court to ascertain just compensation within ten (10) days after due publication of this Order.
Shoud such owners fail to file their answer and grounds of defense as hereinabove provided within ten (10) days after due publication of this Order, such failure shall not preclude them from appearing on the date set for the empanelment of jurors, the appointment of commissioners, or the application to the Court for determining just compensation, nor from presenting evidence as to valuation and damage, nor from sharing in the award of just compensation according to their interest therein or otherwise protecting their rights, but such failure shall preclude such owners from any other defense by way of pleas in bar, abatement or otherwise.
And it is further ORDERED that pursuant to Va. Code §25.1-210, that this Order of Publication be published once a week for two successive weeks in Loudoun Now, and that within 10 days from entry of this Order the Notice by Publication be posted on the Circuit Court Clerk’s website as provided in Va. Code §1-1211.1.
7/18, 7/25, 8/1 & 8/8/2024
TOWN OF LEESBURG
NOTICE OF TOWN COUNCIL PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER REZONING APPLICATION TLREZN2023-0005 SAFFORFD BROWN HYUNDAI AND TLSPEX2023-0007 SAFFORD BROWN VEHICLE SALES FACILITY
Pursuant to Sections 15.2-1427, 15.2-2204, 15.2-2205 and 15.2-2285 of the Code of Virginia, 1950, as amended, the LEESBURG TOWN COUNCIL will hold a public hearing on TUESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. in the Town Council Chambers, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia 20176, to consider Rezoning application TLREZN2023-0005 Safford Brown Hyundai and Special Exception application TLSPEX2023-0007 Safford Brown Vehicle Sales Facility.
The Subject Property is located at 165 Keystone Court, N.E. and consists of one parcel totaling approximately 5.6 acres (Loudoun County Property Identification Number (PIN) 148-16-9914). The Subject Property is zoned R-E (Single-Family Residential Estate District) and also lies within the Gateway District (Overlay).
Rezoning Application TLREZN2023-0005 is a request by Gramm SB Properties to rezone the subject property to the B-3 (Community Retail/Commercial District), subject to a Concept Plan and proffers. The application requests a 32,330 square foot vehicle sales and service facility. The site is located in what the Legacy Leesburg Town Plan (LLTP) describes as an “Area to Transform or Evolve” on the Area Based Land Use Initiatives Map (LLTP page 72). The property is further designated within LLTP as a “Neighborhood Center” on the Character Areas for Preservation and Change Map (LLTP pg. 76).
Special Exception Application TLSPEX-2023-0007 is a request by Gramm SB Properties for a Special Exception to allow a 32,300 square foot vehicle sales and service facility, pursuant to Town of Leesburg Zoning Ordinance (TLZO) Section 6.5.2. Use Regulations.
The application includes five (5) requested modifications to the requirements of the TLZO regulations for buffers and setbacks.
Additional information and copies of these two applications are available at the Department of Community Development 222 Catoctin Circle, Suite 200, Leesburg, Virginia, 20176, during normal business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.), or by contacting Scott E. Parker, AICP, at 703-771-2771 or sparker@leesburgva.gov.
At these hearings, all persons desiring to express their views concerning these matters will be heard. Persons requiring special accommodations at the meeting 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.
7/25 & 8/1/24
Loudoun County Public Schools
Proposed Elementary School Attendance Zone Change for Planning Zones DS08.4, DN36.17 and DN36.18
On June 25, 2024, the Loudoun County School Board initiated an abbreviated attendance zone process to change the elementary school serving three Loudoun County Public Schools (LCPS) planning zones – DS08.4, DN36.17 and DN36.18. The planning zones include the Parkside Village community (DS08.4), pending Fleetwood North development (DS08.4) and a section of the West Park at Brambleton community (DN36.17 and DN36.18). Within West Park at Brambleton, the recommendation specifically involves the Stratus at West Park and West Park IV single family homes accessed via Orchard Grove Drive.
The recommendation to assign the three planning zones to Sycolin Creek Elementary School would, upon approval, take effect in August 2024 - before the start of the 2024-2025 school year. No change is recommended for the secondary school attendance boundary.
Maps and information on this recommended attendance zone change are posted on the LCPS website (www.lcps.org/062524).
The School Board will hold a public hearing on the proposed elementary school zone change on August 13, 2024, followed by action later the same evening. The August 13 meeting will be held in the LCPS Administration Building (21000 Education Court, Ashburn), with the evening meeting beginning at 6:30 p.m. The meeting will also be broadcast live on Comcast channel 18 and Verizon Fios channel 43 and viewable via simultaneous webcast (https://www.lcps.org/webcast).
Persons who need translation/interpretation assistance or a reasonable accommodation for any type of disability in order to participate meaningfully at the August 13, 2024 public hearing and meeting should contact the Clerk of the School Board at 571-252-1020 at least three (3) days prior to the meeting.
Beverly I. Tate, Director Loudoun County Public Schools Division of Planning & GIS Services 21000 Education Court, Ashburn, Virginia 20148
Telephone: 571-252-1050
Email: LCPSPLAN@LCPS.ORG
7/11, 7/18, 7/25, 8/1 & 8/8/24
ORDER OF PUBLICATION
COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA
VA. CODE § 8.01-316
Case No.: JJ028308-07-00
Loudoun Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court
Commonwealth of Virginia, in re Emerson Lopez Loudoun County Department of Family Services v. Unknown Father
The object of this suit is to hold a status hearing in child in need of services’ matter pursuant to Virginia Code § 16.1-228 and 16.1-241 for Emerson Lopez.
It is ORDERED that the defendant Unknown Father appear at the above-named Court and protect his or her interests on or before September 3, 2024 at 2:00pm.
7/25, 8/1, 8/8 & 8/15/24
Legal Notices
LOUDOUN COUNTY WILL BE ACCEPTING SEALED COMPETITIVE PROPOSALS FOR:
ENGINEERING SERVICE FOR STORMWATER INFRASTRUCTURE AND GENERAL LAND SURVEYING, RFP No. 647810 until prior to 4:00 p.m., local “Atomic Time”, August 19, 2024. ON DEMAND TRANSPORTATION SERVICES, RFP No. 656833 until prior to 4:00 p.m., local “Atomic Time”, August 27, 2024.
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
7/25/24
ORDER OF PUBLICATION
COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA
VA. CODE §§ 1-211.1; 8.01-316, -317, 20-104
Case No.: CL24-3609
Loudoun County Circuit Court
Commonwealth of Virginia, in re Cynthia R. Hall-Palmer v.
Arnold Palmer
The object of this suit is to obtain an official divorce. It is ordered that Arnold Palmer appear at the above-named court and protect his/her interests on or before 8/16/2024, 2:00 p.m.. 7/4, 7/10, 7/18, 7/25/24
TOWN OF LEESBURG
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
SUBDIVISION VARIATION REQUEST TLSVAR-2023-0001
109 SOUTH KING
STREET
Pursuant to Section 6.03 of the Town of Leesburg Subdivision and Land Development Regulations, and Sections 15.2-2242(1), 15.2-2204, 15.2-2205 and 15.2-2285 of the Code of Virginia, 1950, as amended, the Leesburg Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on: Thursday, August 1, 2024 at 7:00 P.M. in the Town Council Chambers 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia, 20176.
to consider a Planning Commission Subdivision Variation request, TLSVAR-2023-0001. This variation request is made on behalf of the applicant, McLister Enterprises, LLC. The variation request is associated with the pending Final Subdivision Plat (TLFSUB2023-0003) and a future Minor Site Plan to propose structure improvements to the 109 South King Street property.
The applicant is requesting the Planning Commission’s approval of a Subdivision Variation to the Town of Leesburg’s Subdivision and Land Development Regulations (“SLDR”) Section 4.02(g) related to required road frontage improvements along Royal Street in conjunction with the re-development of a parcel of land identified in the Loudoun County Tax Records as PIN# 231-38-0529.
The Subdivision Variation requests that the required frontage improvements of the 109 South King Street property be waived along its Royal Street Frontage with the subdivision and re-development of this property; as any frontage improvements constructed by the applicant at this time would 1) create an unsafe pedestrian route at the southwest corner of the site where sidewalk would end abruptly midblock, and 2) would likely need to be removed and reconstructed at taxpayer expense when a future Capital Project is designed for this portion of Royal Street.
Copies and additional information regarding the Variation Request are available at the Department of Community Development located on the second floor of the Jewel Building, 222 Catoctin Circle, Leesburg, Virginia, 20175 during normal business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.) or by contacting William R. Ackman, Jr., P.E., Chief Engineer at 703-669-3161.
At this hearing, all persons desiring to express their views concerning these matters will be heard. Persons requiring special accommodation at this Planning Commission meeting should contact the Clerk of Commission at (703) 771-2434 three days in advance of the meeting. For TTY/TDD service, use the Virginia Relay Center by dialing 711.
7/18, 7/25/2024
Misc.
VEHICLE AUCTION
MD Repo Vehicles For Public Sale at ADESA Washington, DC. All Makes and Models Running Weekly Details can be found at www.adesawashingtondc.com
Terms: State and local orders will be strictly enforced at the sale, including social distancing and limits on the number of people permitted to gather in certain areas. All attendees must comply with such procedures or will be required to leave the premises. We strongly recommend that all attendees wear face coverings for the protection of themselves and our staff. Bidder agrees to register and pay a refundable $500 cash deposit plus a non-refundable $20 entry fee before the Sale starts. The balance of the purchase is due in full by 5:00pm on sale day. vehicles are AS-IS and are subject to a buy fee based on the sale price of the vehicle. Only cash or certified funds will be accepted. No vehicle will be released until Payment is made in full. Children under the age of 18 are not permitted.
VEHICLE AUCTION
ADESA WASHINGTON DC 705-996-1100 44475 OLD OX ROAD, DULLES, VA 20166
20+Chase repossessions will be offered to the public sale (monthly) on Wednesdays (8/14/24, 9/11/24, 10/9/24, 11/6/24, 12/4/24). Auction doors open at 8:00 a.m. Sale starts at 9:50 a.m. ET. Registered persons may preview/inspect vehicles on the day of the sale before bidding. Bids accepted only when a vehicle is presented for sale. The auctioneer will conclude the sale when bidding stops. All results will be final by 5:00 p.m. Terms: Cash or Certified Check.
Loco Service Providers
Published by Loudoun Community Media
15 N. King St., Suite 101 Leesburg, VA, 20176
703-770-9723
KURT ASCHERMANN
Executive Director kaschermann@loudounnow.org
NORMAN K. STYER
Publisher and Editor nstyer@loudounnow.org
EDITORIAL
ALEXIS GUSTIN Reporter agustin@loudounnow.org
HANNA PAMPALONI Reporter hpampaloni@loudounnow.org
ADVERTISING
SUSAN STYER
Advertising Manager sstyer@loudounnow.org
TONYA HARDING
Account Executive tharding@loudounnow.org
VICKY MASHAW
Account Executive vmashaw@loudounnow.org
CRYSTAL MONNINGER
Account Executive cmonninger@loudounnow.org
A Plan Forward
Opinion
The new law loosening the state’s grip on its meager allocation of unpaved road money puts an additional tool into the hands of local leaders working to protect another, increasingly unique, feature of Loudoun’s countryside.
Historically, the two biggest factors that turn up the pressure to pave gravel roads are increased development and poor maintenance.
While county supervisors over the decades have had means to control development, road conditions were left in the hands of the state’s Department of Transportation, and often to the changing priorities of the local administrators and sometimes to the skills and dedication of the work crews. In some years there are more frame-shaking washboards and potholes than others and in those years, county leaders no doubt get an uptick in the “pave my road now” calls. Improved maintenance itself can be a preservation tool.
However, in developing a strategic plan for gravel
LETTERS to the Editor
Hometown Hero
Editor:
On July 26, Paris will become the center of the competitive sports world. Olympians from all over the globe will be competing to be the best in their sport. Many different countries will be watching and rooting for their countries’ Olympians. There will be over 20 competitors from DC, Virginia, and Maryland in Paris participating this summer, some from Loudoun County.
However, we in Leesburg will be proudly watching and standing behind Heritage High School graduate, Weini Kelati. She qualified for the 10,000-meter track race and will be going to the 2024 Paris Olympics. We, in Leesburg, are honored she calls Leesburg home.
We wish all our local Olympians success, but our hearts will be with Weini Kelati as she runs to represent the US and Leesburg in the 2024 Paris Olympics. — Mayor Kelly Burk, Leesburg
roads decades into the future, county supervisors must start with establishing expectations—both for those living on dirt roads today and for those thinking about moving into those enclaves. That may involve a return to a roadshed-level focus that once, albeit briefly, found traction among county planners. Some gravel roads already have been overwhelmed by subdivisions and increased traffic; more attentive maintenance may not be enough to adequately protect the public safety. Others may have levels of significance that justify more than a commitment to better maintenance, such as broader policies that specifically promote conservation easements or other measures in the corridor to hold back the pressures that come with development.
Overall, the goal should be to end the ad-hoc manner in which road paving has historically occurred. Loudoun’s road policies should be based on something more than the number of angry phone calls county supervisors hear. n
Leesburg water
continued from page 3
Under current buildout projections, the average daily demand for water is expected to grow to 6.2 mgd, with 10 mgd needed during peak periods. If the town reaches 80% of capacity, 10.2 mgd, state regulators will require the town to take action to address its treatment capacity—either to plan for expansions or demonstrate that growth is waning.
“That trigger point causes the need to have a conversation with the regulatory agencies,” Wyks told the council. A water treatment plant expansion could take a decade to plan and construct with a potential $100 million price tag.
Wyks said that it will take two or three years of monitoring to confirm the demand trend assumptions used to build the latest capacity forecast.
In calculating the impact of other data center development planned in town, Wyks noted the staff made an important assumption—that they will be using closed-loop cooling systems, technology that requires significantly less water than traditional evaporative systems.
The Microsoft campus uses an evaporative system in which water flows into the buildings and is discharged into the wastewater system—about half of the water evaporates in the process. The Microsoft agreement with the town provides up to 1.23 mgd of water, but only 617,000 mgd of wastewater capacity.
The 32-acre STACK Infrastructure
data center campus under construction at Compass Creek near Microsoft will use a closed-loop system, Wkys said. But no agreements are in place for other data center projects, including the recently approved STACK project at the Village at Leesburg and three other pending applications.
Town Attorney Chris Serpa said the type of cooling systems used is negotiated on a project-by-project basis. He also said the town may want to start having those conversations earlier in the review process.
With the tightening future capacity projections, it will be clear that closedloop systems are expected. “We need time to evaluate the proposed data center applications unless a data center comes in providing cooling via a closed-loop system,” Wyks said.
She said the staff did not evaluate the impact of having the new data centers using evaporative cooling systems, because that clearly would push the demand projections beyond the system’s current capacity.
She said the developers of the Village at Leesburg project had proposed an evaporative system but have been notified about the capacity limitations.
Council member Zach Cummings noted that plans for STACK’s Village at Leesburg data center cited a need for 190,000 gallons of water per day, but the staff ’s capacity forecast allocated only 3,500 gallons per day to the project with the assumption it would have closed-loop system.
LEESBURG WATER continues on page 23
Loudoun Now is mailed weekly to homes in Leesburg, western Loudoun and Ashburn, and distributed for pickup throughout the county. Online, Loudoun Now provides daily community news coverage to an audience of more than 100,000 unique monthly visitors.
READERS’ poll
By Chip Beck
Gravel roads
continued from page 1
roads that definitely are going to end up getting paved, just because of the nature of them,” Supervisor Caleb A. Kershner (R-Catoctin), whose district contains many of the county’s rural roads, said. “We’ve got those that should never get paved. We want to identify those.”
But the roads that don’t fall into either category should be the main focus of the program, he said.
“I want to make sure we have a real strong focus on using the extra capital funds … to continue to maintain those roads,” he said.
Development of the program, which would include community meetings in the Catoctin and Little River districts, is estimated to cost $401,000 and take 12 months to complete
Glass said the staff also is expecting the
Leesburg water
continued from page 22
“At this point, it’s an approved data center. How do we force them to use a closed-circuit cooling system versus the evaporative?” Cummings asked.
Wyks said the utility allocation was not part of the council’s prior approval. They are slated to hash out a plan to be presented to the council later this year if
release of new guidelines from VDOT on how the state is planning to administer the legislative changes and the details on the kind of enhanced maintenance that will be permitted.
“Additionally, the Virginia Transportation Research Council is developing a statewide unpaved roads condition rating system that will help VDOT prioritize its maintenance efforts,” she said.
All of those factors will be incorporated into next year’s Secondary Road SixYear Plan.
Kershner successfully moved to delay a committee vote on recommending the program to the full Board of Supervisors until September while he and Supervisor Laura A. TeKrony (D-Little River) continue to work with the Rural Roads Committee to finalize some of the program’s details.
“I think we will have all parties on board by the time we get here in September,” he said. n
a high-volume user agreement is required.
On the wastewater treatment side, the town has an average daily demand of 4 mgd, but already has exceeded its 7.5 mgd treatment capacity twice this year, reaching a peak of 7.8 mgd.
On Tuesday, the council to authorize a $1.7 million contract to begin design of sewage treatment system upgrades to address the concern that its solids processing capability will reach capacity by 2028. n
Obituary
Bruce Bucklin
With great sadness we share that Bruce L. Bucklin passed away at home in Leesburg, VA on July 10, 2024, at the age of 82 following a long illness. Bruce was born on January 14, 1942, in Jamestown, NY to Gilbert and Madge Bucklin. A voracious learner, Bruce obtained a BA from SUNY College at Fredonia, an MA from Fairleigh Dickinson University and an MPhil from George Washington University. After over 20 years of federal service, Bruce retired and transitioned to the non-profit film organization, Council on International Nontheatrical Events (CINE). He also chaired the jury annually for the Ekotopfilm Environmental Film Festival in Bratislava, Slovakia where he made many life-long friends. Still curious, his last “profession” was as a potter and for years he could be found in his booth at local craft shows and farmers markets. Later in his life, he was blessed to meet his loving wife, Katherine. They wed at St. James’ Episcopal Church on June 24, 2006, surrounded by family and friends. Bruce painstakingly traced the genealogy of his family and we are certain there was never a Bucklin who was as funny, supportive, or as good at Wii Bowling as “Grandpa Bruce.” He loved taking his family on adventures and they were all well versed in Civil War battlefields, Smithsonian museums, zoos, nature trails, and numer-
ous aquatic activities. There was inevitable fun when Grandpa was around, whether it was a movie night with popcorn and Pepsi (always Pepsi, never Coke) or helping us make pottery. Always willing to help family, friends, or neighbors, Bruce was oriented towards service, including volunteering at the George C. Marshall International Center, Habitat for Humanity, the Loudoun Museum and making pottery for Loudoun Empty Bowls. He also contributed in numerous ways through his involvement at St. James’ Episcopal Church. Finally, Bruce quietly and regularly contributed to many worthy causes including supporting an equine rescue organization, the Salvation Army, and sponsoring a child abroad for over 20 years. Bruce is survived by his wife, Kathy; his children, Jennifer Cross (Michael), Steve Bucklin (Monica), Meredith Dunn (Sean), Jeannette Bjorklund (Chip), Jack Campbell (Krista) and Lori Fulton (Stuart); his younger sibling, Jerry Bucklin and two nephews. Bruce loved being a proud grandpa to Aidan, Nathan, Sean, Ethan (Morgan), Emily, Kylie, Ashley, Lindsay, Lily, Ashley, Katie, Campbell, Colton, Carsyn, Christian and Daniel. He was also a devoted dog dad and leaves behind Ziva and Dexter. He was preceded in death by his parents and daughter Melanie. A memorial service was held on July 20, 2024, at St. James’ Episcopal Church in Leesburg. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to either the Loudoun County Humane Society or Blue Ridge Hospice. Condolences can be sent through Colonial Funeral Home of Leesburg. Finally, the family would like to thank Blue Ridge Hospice, and in particular Clay Morgan, for their loving care of Bruce and support of his family these last several weeks. n
