Loudoun Now for Feb. 13, 2025

117 More Data Centers in Pipeline, Chamber Members Told

BY HANNA PAMPALONI hpampaloni@loudounnow.org

Members of the Loudoun Chamber of Commerce gathered last week to hear from County Chair Phyllis J. Randall (D-At Large), Vice Chair Michael Turner (D-Ashburn) and Supervisor Laura A. TeKrony (D-Little River) about their plans to address the biggest challenges and opportunities facing the community.

Data centers, attainable housing, rural zoning regulations and transportation are all topics county supervisors are focused on as they head into 2025.

TeKrony, who was appointed to chair the board’s Transportation and Land Use Committee this year, gave a brief update on what projects the panel will tackle this year, including rewriting zoning regulations for western and rural Loudoun, tackling data center regulations and possibly amending the Countywide Transportation Plan.

The data center regulation changes are being undertaken in two phases – the first is an attempt to require special exception view for data centers anywhere in the county and the second is a more detailed look at performance standards and other specific regulations. The board is

County Data Center Land Values Surge

BY HANNA PAMPALONI hpampaloni@loudounnow.org

During Commissioner of the Revenue Bob Wertz’s real property assessments presentation to the Board of Supervisors Feb. 4, county leaders learned that once again data center land values have increased over last year—now comprising 22.9% of the county’s real estate tax base.

Assessed at $42.4 billion, data center real estate accounts for 75% of the county’s commercial land value. That is a 78.7% increase over last year’s $23.7 billion with only a fraction of that increase stemming from new construction.

Data center square footage in 2025 is estimated to be 49.4 million, which includes fully constructed centers and those with approved site plans with listed square

footage.

“Data center growth in 2025 is primarily driven by continued build-out within the existing data center portfolio, land acquired for data centers and new construction,” Wertz said.

Board of Supervisors Vice Chair Michael R. Turner (D-Ashburn) the next day

Marty Shoup/Blue Lion Multimedia

Board of Supervisors Vice Chair Michael R. Turner (D-Ashburn) speaks about increasing data center square footage throughout the county during a Feb. 5 Loudoun Chamber of Commerce breakfast.

THE FAMILY ACADEMY

Empowering Families for Student Success

mpowering Student

Hosted by Loudoun County Public Schools’ Division of Family and Community Engagement, The Family Academy offers free online workshops designed to empower families with tools and strategies to support their child’s education. Running from January through May, these sessions provide valuable insights to help students thrive both academically and socially.

WORKSHOP SCHEDULE

WORKSHOP SCHEDULE WORKS S K HOP SCCHEEDDUULLE

January 23, 2025

Understanding Programs, Pathways and Schedules

February 27, 2025

Promoting a Growth Mindset at Home

March 13, 2025

Demystifying K-12 Assessments

April 23, 2025

Navigating School and Division Communication

May 28, 2025

Supporting Academic Growth

Supervisors Approve 3-Year Diversity Action Plan

BY HANNA PAMPALONI hpampaloni@loudounnow.org

The Board of Supervisors approved a three-year action plan with six goals focused on advancing diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility within the county during a meeting Feb. 4.

The Loudoun Equity Action Plan was approved after a years-long effort that began as part of the fiscal year 2021 budget when the board allocated $125,000 for a DEIA study and the development of the plan. In 2022, the county contracted MGT to conduct the study. After that, the plan was developed by the county’s Office of Equity and Inclusion and Equity Action Planning Committee. Plan development included a DEIA survey administered to over 3,800 county employees, focus groups and feedback sessions.

“The county strategic approach has developed a structured, phase implementation approach spanning three years,”

Chief Equity Officer Carl Rush said. “In phase one, we’ll focus on diversity and inclusion. In phase two, the LEAP plane

focuses on equity and phase three focuses on community engagement.”

The first goal is to reach equitable recruitment and onboarding and will be achieved by reviewing and updating the countywide standards for both steps of the hiring process to attract a more diverse workforce of highly qualified individuals.

The second focuses on workforce readiness by building employee understanding and application of DEIA principles through education and implementation.

The third goal is to develop a welcoming and people-centered culture by creating an inclusive workplace environment where diverse individuals can thrive and feel valued.

The fourth is to provide equitable access to services by ensuring that all county programs, services and facilities are both accessible and equitable to everyone.

The fifth goal focuses on leading with data by using data analysis to identify disparities, track progress and inform decision-making related to employment and community engagement.

The last goal is to create inclusive community engagement with all Loudoun

members.

With board approval, Rush said his team will next develop a detailed workplan to begin advancing toward those goals and will bring resource requests to the board during the upcoming budget development sessions.

“The development of this equity action plan and the LEAP reflects the board’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and equitable county government,” he said.

The motion to approve the plan was made by Supervisor Juli E. Briskman (D-Algonkian), who said it might be her proudest moment since taking office five years ago.

“I know that things feel kind of scary and unstable right now in our nation and even threatening for our vulnerable communities,” she said. “But, we know too much about systemic racism and bigotry, we know too much about systemic sexism, we know too much about homophobia, disparaging of other people that are not part of the ‘norm’ in our county, and we know how all of these things contribute to pain and real harm to our vulnerable communities. So, despite what is happen-

ing at the national level I just want to say I am so proud of our county right now.”

The initiative was opposed by supervisors Matthew F. Letourneau (R-Dulles) and Caleb A. Kershner (R-Catoctin), and while Supervisor Kristen C. Umsttad (D-Leesburg) supported the motion, she said it might come at the cost of federal support.

“I’m supporting this despite of the fact that the new administration in DC is promising to penalize entities who have DEI programs and to deny those entities any federal funding, federal grants, federal loans,” Umstattd said. “So, while I think we need to stand up for what we think is right regardless, I do think we need to start preparing for a loss of federal funding across many different sectors.”

Letourneau said he agreed with some of the commonsense principles in the LEAP and that he hoped they would be pursued in any organization.

“I am not inclined to support adding more layers of what I see more as

Do The Right Thing: Civil Rights Pioneer Speaks to Schools Equity Committee

BY AMBER LUCAS alucas@loudounnow.org

Robert L. Green, a 91-year-old pioneer of the Civil Rights Movement, last week urged members of the Loudoun County Public Schools Equity Committee to keep fighting.

“When people are not in a position to defend themselves, you have an obligation to help defend them. I always tell my son that, and I believe that in my heart, and I learned that from King,” Green said during the Feb. 6 event.

Accomplishments throughout Green’s life include earning a PhD, writing three books and helping to desegregate over 20 school divisions. He earned his degree from Michigan State University in 1963 and worked at the Southern Christian Leadership Conference with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. from 1965 to 1967.

“I want you to know that Dr. Green’s contributions didn’t stop with the Civil Rights Movement. He went on to break barriers in higher education, becoming the dean of Michigan State University’s College of urban development, and later serving as president of the University of the District of Columbia. His fight for justice extended beyond protests and speeches, he led efforts to desegregate neighborhoods, schools and ensure that future generations would have access to

the opportunity that they deserve,” School Board Member Linda Deans (Broad Run) said.

Education and the treatment of young people were major themes in Green’s remarks to the panel. He said that teaching young people was one of the most important things for the future, and that young people can do more than people expect

of them.

Green answered several questions regarding Diversity, Equity and Inclusion programs in the school system, programs the School Board voted to continue during its budget deliberations just days earlier.

“Supporting our young people through DEI efforts is important, and I know there’s some conflict or just a reason about

how we go about doing what’s best for young people, but my position is, as it’s always been, try to do the right thing at the right time for young people, always, because if they believe that you are being fair to them and treating them in an honest and fair way, they’ll be good people,” Green said.

“It’s been my experience that young people won’t let you down if you don’t let them down,” he said.

He also said that the reading scores of Black boys in Loudoun County are some of the highest in the country, and that people are watching Loudoun. Student expectations, which he covers in one of his books, was important.

“You contact me on expectations and student achievement. Expectations are so high. It’s so important, and we communicate to young people our expectations about what we think they can and should do, and most young people can do a little bit more than we give them credit for,” Green said. “We need to keep pushing our young people to do the right thing and to stay on the right track.”

Green pointed out a young boy in the audience sitting with his mother and told everyone to give him a round of applause.

“You can go home today saying that you uplifted a young Black male.

Amber Lucas/Loudoun Now

Civil rights pioneer Robert Green and his wife, Letty, after speaking with the Loudoun County Public Schools Equity Committee Feb. 6.

Loudoun

SCC Approves $700M Aspen to Golden Power Line, Rejects Underground Proposal for Rt. 7

BY HANNA PAMPALONI hpampaloni@loudounnow.org

A final decision by the State Corporation Commission released Feb. 5 gives approval for two new transmission lines to run through eastern Loudoun – and does not support a proposal by the county to underground a segment of one of those lines.

Applications for the lines were submitted by Dominion Energy with the first, and most controversial, known as the Aspen to Golden line, running from a substation south of Leesburg, along Rt. 7 and then south to the intersection of Rt. 28 and the W&OD Trail. The lines will have 230 kilovolt and 500 kV double circuit lines positioned on monopole towers. The project is estimated to cost $700 million and is expected to be in service by June 2028.

Dominion Energy representatives have said the lines are needed to meet growing demand from data centers in northern Virginia and that delaying the projects could result in service disruptions.

During the application process, the

Loudoun County government and the Lansdowne Conservancy submitted a hybrid proposal that would have Dominion construct three miles that runs along Rt. 7 underground. The total Aspen to Golden line will be 9.4 miles long.

County and conservancy representatives said that would help mitigate environmental concerns, viewshed impacts, economic implications, property devaluations and safety concerns related to the line’s proximity to Inova Hospital. The conservancy contracted RLC Engineering to conduct a feasibility study of the proposal which found burying the line would mitigate the negative impacts.

Dominion disputed that finding and said the cost of burying the line would reach $1 billion and delay the project’s completion date. The company also said burying high voltage is a new concept in the United States.

In Thursday’s final order, the SCC agreed with Dominion and said the hybrid proposal lacked environmental analysis.

“Dominion has provided sufficient evidence that existing rights-of-way would be used for the Aspen-Golden Project

where possible but that existing rights of way cannot meet the needs for the majority of the Aspen-Golden Project,” according to the document.

The commission also found that there is “sufficient need” for the lines and that they will support economic development in Loudoun and Virginia.

“The record establishes that both [lines] avoid or reasonably minimize adverse impacts to the greatest extent reasonably practicable to environmental, historic and scenic resources,” according to the order.

The second line, known as Apollo to Twin Creeks, will be 1.9 miles of 230 kV doble circuit lines and run parallel with the southern portion of the Aspen to Golden line. The project is expected to cost $280.7 million and be in service by Sept. 30, 2028.

For both lines, the commission declined to adopt the Department of Environmental Quality’s recommendation that Dominion further evaluate petroleum release sites, declined to condition approval on the DEQ recommendation to avoid and minimize impacts to ecological cores, and declined to adopt recommen-

dations that Dominion implement an invasive species management plan.

“There is sufficient evidence that the public health and safety will not be harmed by the construction and operation of the Apollo-Twin Creeks Project or the Aspen-Golden Project,” according to the document.

Dominion representatives told Loudoun Now in an email that they are pleased with the SCC’s approval.

“This ruling means Dominion can move forward with the important work to construct this transmission line that improves reliability for Loudoun County and Northern Virginia. In routing this project, Dominion worked hard to minimize impacts on residents, the environment, and cultural and historic resources. We appreciate the involvement from the county and the community, their participation made this project better,” according to the email.

Over the next few months, the company will begin work on finalizing the design plans and remaining permitting processes to prepare for construction which is expected to begin in early 2026. n

JK Land Holdings’ 10-Acre Donation to Freedom Center Moves Forward

BY HANNA PAMPALONI hpampaloni@loudounnow.org

Nearly a year after JK Land Holdings President and CEO Chuck Kuhn announced his intention to donate 10 acres to the Loudoun Freedom Center, a decision by the State Corporation Commission approving an alternate power line route through the property will move the donation forward.

JK Land Holdings bought the 108-acre parcel adjacent to the African American Burial Ground For The Enslaved At Belmont over a year ago. The property, which is planned for two data centers, lies directly in the path of Dominion Energy’s future Aspen to Golden transmission lines.

Kuhn said he would donate 10 acres to the Freedom Center, which owns the cemetery, if Dominion would collaborate in an effort to move the transmission line 70 feet from where it was originally planned – moving it closer to the burial ground –and away from the planned data centers. Moving the line to allow for the data

centers to be built would make the donation economically possible, Kuhn said. Each acre of property is worth approximately $2 million, making the value of the 10-acre donation $20 million.

Dominion representatives have been working with both JK Land Holdings and the Freedom Center for over a year and half to determine the route for the transmission lines. Their application for the lines was approved by the SCC last week and included approval of a variation that would allow microsite adjustments on the JK Land Holdings property.

“Dominion was very gracious in working closely with us and the Freedom Center to find a way to reroute the transmission lines so that both JK Land Holdings and the Freedom Center would be able to build,” Kuhn stated in an email to Loudoun Now. “Now work towards the planned donation by JK Land Holdings to the Freedom Center can continue

Hanna Pampaloni/Loudoun Now Freedom Center Founder Pastor Michelle Thomas and JK Land Holdings President and CEO Chuck Kuhn stand at the African American Burial Ground For The Enslaved At Belmont Feb. 29, 2024 after signing an

Supervisors Prepare to Work on $3.8B Capital Projects Plan

BY HANNA PAMPALONI hpampaloni@loudounnow.org

The day before County Administrator Tim Hemstreet presented his fiscal year 2026 budget, the Board of Supervisors’ Finance Committee was briefed on the amended fiscal year 2025-2030 Capital Improvement Program, which adds $238 million to the construction plan.

During the six-year period $1.5 billion is set aside for transportation projects, $1.3 billion for county government projects and $1 billion for school projects.

Of the proposed transportation funding, $1.2 billion is dedicated to roads, while $117 million is proposed for sidewalks and trails, $96 million for the Intersection Improvement Program, and $72 million for transit.

Management and Budget Assistant Director Nikki Speight said the committee had been updated on the status of sidewalks and trails, intersection improvements, bus shelters and bus stop programs.

“While there is no funding to accelerate those programs, staff will be coming to a future Finance Committee meeting with information on how to move those programs forward as part of the FY 2027 budget process,” she said. “However, to be responsible to other transportation priorities, new projects were added into further progress in the area of pedestrian, bridge and bicycle facilities in major transportation corridors.”

Funding for county projects is dedicated to general government at $374 million;

ON THE agenda

Registration for County Grant Training Ends Friday

Registration for the county’s grant application training ends Friday, Feb. 14.

The three-part virtual training is designed to help organizations seeking grants learn how to craft successful applications and secure funding that support projects and initiatives relevant to their mission.

Staff from the county’s Department of Finance and Procurement will provide comprehensive instruction on the grant writing process including proposal development, budgeting, data collection and mandatory reporting.

The first session will focus on building a compelling narrative and budget development and is scheduled for Feb. 18 at 10 a.m. The second session will focus on grant data collection and will be held Feb. 25 at 10 a.m. During the fi-

parks, recreation and culture at $288 million, administration at $221 million; public safety at $207 million; information technology ay $86 million and health and welfare at $11 million. Additional funding for town projects in Lovettsville, Hamilton and Round Hill totaled $41 million.

Nearly half of the proposed school funding will be used for high schools at $449 million with $79 million used for elementary schools. The other half, at $510 million will be used for other school facilities.

The amended plan includes the School Board’s construction requests for FY 2026, Speight said, but significant increases sought by the division for later years were not accommodated. Capacity-driven projects were prioritized for funding, she added.

“Over the long term, county and school staff will need to work together to address funding needs for the school’s renovations and replacements,” she said.

Much of the CIP is funded through debt at $2.3 billion, with $903 million coming from local tax funding, $474 million from intergovernmental assistance, and $96 million categorized as other.

New projects included in the amended CIP include a Belmont Ridge Road bicycle and pedestrian crossing of the Dulles Greenway, phase one of widening Rt. 15 between Montressor Road and the Luckett’s bypass, a Montressor Road sidewalk, a streetlight program, IT projects, and renovations to county offices at 751 Miller Dr.

The committee will hold its first CIP work session Feb. 18. n

nal session, set for March 7 at 10 a.m., participants will learn about grant reporting and tourism grants.

Registration for the training series is available at  loudoun.gov/GrantOpportunities.

Sterling Celebrates

Black History Month

The Sterling Community Center, in coordination with the county’s Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Services, is hosting a Black History Month expo this Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

This is the center’s second year hosting the event planned to celebrate Black excellence, culture and contributions throughout history. The event will feature local vendors, artists, speakers, live performances and education exhibits all centered around the theme of empowerment and unity.

The Sterling Community Center is located at 120 Enterprise Street. n

Freedom Center

continued from page 4

as promised, and we are grateful to all who made this happen. This donation is in keeping with our commitment to preserving land and history. Over the past decade, we have placed more than 22,000 acres into conservation easement—more than a third here in Loudoun, ensuring vulnerable vistas and habitats and our history are preserved and protected for future generations.”

Freedom Center founder Pastor Michelle Thomas said the donation benefits her organization because it gives it control over the land surrounding the burial ground and expands the property making space for buildings, including the planned Loudoun Freedom Center Museum & Cultural Resources Center.

“I’m just overjoyed that Mr. Kuhn is a man of his word and that he’s dedicated to historic preservation,” she said. “I’m so overjoyed that Dominion understood the value of what we’re trying to do as a community. They put community over profit in this case because this was not their preferred route, but they listened, and they understood what the community is asking.”

Thomas noted the timing of the SCC ruling, saying it was one year that she and Kuhn met at the burial ground to sign the memorandum of understanding to donate the land if the route could be moved.

“This has come in Black History Month,” she said. “I just think it’s come a full circle. And not just one year, I’m talking about full circle for over 200 years, where the descendants of enslaved are actually going to be owners in a larger portion of the place where their ancestors were forced to labor and be enslaved.”

The Freedom Center owns just under three acres of the burial ground, so expanding that by an additional 10 acres is significant, Thomas said.

“It’s certainly what we’re going to need to build a state-of-the-art museum,” she said. “It’s certainly what we’re going to need to build a community center, or cultural epicenter, if you will, in Loudoun where we’re able to do anything from STEM research to community conversations to recreation and have sacred spaces.”

Preserving and expanding the land where their ancestors are buried is significant to Loudoun’s Black community, she said.

“It’s going to be a sacred space of heritage, healing and hope,” Thomas said. n

Leesburg Dentler Presents $158.1M FY26 Budget

BY WILLIAM TIMME wtimme@loudounnow.org

Leesburg Town Manager Kaj Dentler is recommending the Town Council retain the current real estate tax rate and the town’s vehicle license fee as part of his proposed $158.1 million budget presented Monday night.

Holding the real estate tax rate at 17.74 cents per $100 of assessed value would result in a 6.7% tax bill increase on average for homeowners because of higher property assessments. To hold tax bills level, the council would have to find $1.5 million in General Fund reductions to cut the tax rate to 16.62 cents, according to the presentation.

“I’ve always said that Leesburg has an artificially low tax rate, and this is one evidence that shows that,” Dentler said, presenting a chart highlighting tax rates in other towns, including Purcellville’s 23.5 cents, Vienna’s 19.5 cents, and Herndon’s 26 cents. “This is one evidence that shows that other jurisdictions are higher. It doesn’t mean we have to be higher, but our assessment of growth over the years has been our saving grace and consumer taxes.”

The budget projects $8 million in meals tax revenue, an increase of $80,000 from the adopted FY25 budget. Sales tax revenue is expected to decline from $7 million to $6.25 million as the town makes up a smaller overall share of the county’s schoolage population, the metric used by the state government to distribute the collections.

In addition to property value increases generating $1.7 million in additional revenues, the town’s real estate tax collection will be bolstered by $2.1 million from the annexation of the Compass Creek property.

Dentler’s budget also calls for the use of $4.055 million in debt reserves.

Dentler is recommending $650,000 to provide an average 3% pay-for-performance raises for employees, a drop from last year’s 4%. He is proposing a cost-of-living adjustment of 2%.

“Our health insurance costs for employees is rising 9%. It went up 10% last year,” Dentler said. “The proposal that I have recommended is that we share those costs. Employees pay half, the town pays half. Without the 2% [COLA], employees have to pay the additional health care, they will begin to lose ground.”

Dentler’s budget adds a few new town positions, including a cybersecurity officer in the IT Department, two police lieutenants and a police information technology

manager, a senior engineer in the Community Development Department for development plan review, and a transportation engineer in the Department of Public Works.

“We know that [Transportation Engineer Niraja Chandrapu] is doing a great job, but she is the choke point, and she knows that. But there’s more work there than one person could possibly get done,” Dentler said.

Dentler also said the Police Department doesn’t want to be “vulnerable” since things can happen on the street quickly. The two police lieutenants represent the senior leadership that Dentler wants to be “ready to respond.”

Operations under the proposed $88 million General Fund would direct $220,000 to stormwater management, $200,000 to trash and recycling, and $310,000 to technology.

Dentler noted legislation being discussed in the General Assembly would take all speed camera revenues from localities and funnel that money to the state government. The council last year endorsed a pilot school zone speed camera project that had been expected to generate $500,000 in fiscal year 2026. Dentler said the staff adjusted the budget to soften the impact if that legislation passes or the council cancels the project.

The council is scheduled to decide on Feb. 11 whether to reduce the $25 vehicle license fee to $0, which would cut $900,000 from the proposed budget. Dentler noted that that reduction, if paired with a council decision to adopt an equalized property tax rate would force the town to cut $2.4 million from the proposed budget.

Dentler said he looked into how to best help Leesburg residents should the council choose to keep the $900,000. His idea was to use a tax rate program, similar to last

AROUND town

COPA Seeks New Cultural District Banner Designs

Leesburg’s Commission on Public Art in collaboration with Friends of Leesburg Public Arts is inviting artists and photographers to submit work for 14 banners to be displayed on utility poles within the town’s Arts and Cultural District. The deadline for submissions is Friday, Feb. 28.

The theme for each banner must be relevant to the Town of Leesburg. Special consideration will be given for images that depict town landscapes, special events, and seasonal images. Suggestions include historic buildings, parks, cycling, or themes related to the history of Leesburg. The call is open to all artists and artist teams in the metro region.

year’s utility assistance program, for those eligible to receive help.

“Let’s be honest, I don’t think there are many people in this room that probably need a $25 tax relief on their vehicle,” Dentler said. “In my household, that’s $50, I’ll be happy to take the $50 but I’m probably going to spend it by going to Blue Ridge Grill or something different. I’m fortunate I don’t have to go buy eggs with that, but there are people that do need help.”

The proposed Six-Year CIP for Fiscal Years 2026-2031 totals $308.57 million and includes 79 projects, 12 of which are new. The proposed Utilities Fund budget totals $39.7 million, $8.1 million of which would go toward capital projects. That’s a drop from FY25’s $45.7 million budget, pairing with a 4.1% utility rate hike approved by the Council in January of last year.

Under the currently proposed budget, 72 cents of each tax dollar will be used for services including police, public works, and capital projects – including debt, parks and recreation, and the Thomas Balch Library, Dentler said.

Going more in-depth, 27.7 cents of every tax dollar goes toward public safety, 21.6 cents to public works, 15.8 cents goes to capital projects, debt services and cash, 12.4 cents goes towards finance, IT and HR, and the remaining 23 cents goes to admin and legal boards, parks and rec, community development, economic development and the Thomas Balch Library, with the last two items taking up less than 2 cents individually.

A public hearing on the budget is scheduled for March 11, and adoption of the budget is scheduled for March 25.

The proposed budget and Town Manager’s presentation is available online at leesburgva.gov/budget. n

The town encourages emerging artists to apply and there is no requirement for previous public art experience. An art show featuring the original pieces will be held in the spring.

COPA will review submissions during its March 3 meeting before going to the Town Council for final review. Submission guidelines are available at leesburgva.gov/publicartnews.

Input Sought on Ida Lee Park Playground Design

The public is invited to attend the upcoming Parks and Rec commission meeting, where the design of the Ida Lee Park playground will be discussed.

The current small playground was installed in 2003 between the Ida Lee Park Recreation Center and the A.V. Symington Aquatic Center. A public survey to share thoughts on playground features yielded more than 170 responses.

The playground improvements are planned for children ages 5 and under and will feature fencing, shade structures, seating areas, low deck heights, and accessibility elements. The replacement of the entrance trail from the sidewalk to the playground to ensure ADA compliance is also planned.

The Parks and Recreation Commission meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 19, in the small conference room inside the Ida Lee Park Recreation Center, near the front reception desk. n

William Timme/ Loudoun Now

Town Manger Kaj Dentler presents Leesburg's $158.1M FY26 budget on Feb. 10.

Ion Complex Converting to Arts, Convention Center

BY NORMAN K. STYER nstyer@loudounnow.com

The Ion International Training Center in Leesburg will transition into a convention center and performance venue this year, under new plans announced publicly Friday.

The skating complex opened in 2019 to serve as a training center for elite and aspiring figure skaters and hosted hockey leagues, curling clubs, and special events including concerts and graduations.

“Change is never easy, but it is often necessary for growth. At Ion Arena, we have always been committed to creating a space that serves Loudoun County in the best way possible—a place that brings people together through unforgettable experiences,” the company said in a statement.

Rumors of a possible closure have been circulating in the skating community for months, and more publicly in recent weeks.

In an interview, Co-Founder and CEO Mitra Setayesh said the move was triggered in part by a change in the youth sports landscape after the COVID pandemic and will meet a vital need in the region for a large meeting, performance and events space.

The skating center opened June 10, 2019, under the leadership of Setayesh and her husband, Romanian skater Luiz Taifas, who envisioned the complex as a worldclass destination for the sport’s top talent and community resource to bring more young people onto the ice.

Setayesh said the business flourished

CENTER continues on page 9

Planning Commission Makes Revisions to CIP

BY WILLIAM TIMME wtimme@loudounnow.org

The Leesburg Planning Commission last Thursday made revisions to the draft fiscal year 2026-2031 Capital Improvements Program.

The preliminary draft, presented last month, added 13 new projects – some of which were affected by the Feb. 6 revisions.

Revisions to the draft include: removing the Catoctin Circle and Edwards Ferry Road intersection improvements project from the future projects list; adding a new specific CIP project to install benches and add trash cans with Leesburg branding on South King Street and North King Street; adding CIP policy statements to support underground utility and gas lines within every CIP project that will open up the ground; adding funding for land planning, design, and construction of transit infrastructure and structured parking to serve the crescent district, eastern gateway district and the B1 downtown commercial district; moving up the Town Hall roof maintenance project priority; prioritizing funding in early years of CIP projects for

safety and security over community amenities; considering removal of the Liberty Lot resurfacing project given the land’s uncertain future as the result of potential private public ownership; and considering removal of the utilities chloramine study without having first conducted further background research.

Town manager Kaj Dentler presented the CIP, alongside the FY26 budget proposal, during the Feb.10 Town Council work session.

Members of the commission weighed in on revisions they wanted made before that presentation during their Feb. 6 meeting.

Commissioner Ron Campbell said he wanted to see the chloramine disinfection feed and control system removed from the CIP. He added that he wants to see public input on the project because of the changing terminology of the existing system.

“I’ve read, both pro and con, a part of that evaluation [chloride to chloramine change] has to include some public input,” Campbell said. “Though it may be a more efficient pipe cleaning use versus just water treatment, it may act similar or the same given, again, the environment we have about the public. People want

Ion Closure ‘Catastrophic’ for Hockey Teams

BY WILLIAM TIMME wtimme@loudounnow.org

With the announcement that Ion International Training Center plans to close as an ice rink venue, skating families are scrambling for alternatives.

Ion serves as the home of Virginia’s only triple-A tier one hockey organization, the Washington Little Capitals. It’s also home for the Loudoun Knights, an organization that club Director Craig Desjarlais said has become a vital part of the local hockey community and an important member of the Chesapeake Bay Hockey League.

“Having 16 teams and almost 300 kids, this club has grown tremendously in five years,” Desjarlais said. “The Mid Atlantic is the fastest growing affiliate in USA Hockey, and we don’t have enough ice as it is. Losing this facility is going to be catastrophic to the growth of hockey. But more importantly, where are these kids going to go moving forward? Some of these kids will find a new place to play, and some won’t. … It’s so tragic that the kids and the families are even put into this situation.”

to know what’s going in their drinking water.”

Commission Chair Gigi Robinson said she wanted to see the Town Hall roof replacement project move up in priority.

“This is something that’s built with tax dollars, owned by taxpayers and which we don’t have a ready replacement for,” Robinson said. “We keep pushing it out, it’ll be at 36 years before we start fussing with it, and I’ve asked that we push that up.”

Commissioner Brian McAfee raised the idea of de-prioritizing projects that “can be moved” or pushed back in order to re-prioritize funding for projects that involve safety concerns.

“The trail lighting, veterans park, we would love to have more parks,” McAfee said. “I still see that as a ‘nice to have’ compared to we need a safe street crossing, you know, multiple street and storm drainage, those are the need to have projects.”

Director of Community Development James David added that he’d heard from Leesburg’s Public Works Director Renee LaFollette that funding in the early years is more certain than funding in later years.

The commission voted unanimously to approve the revisions in the draft. n

Desjarlais said the club touts an almost 100% retention rate for its players and coaches, but there isn’t “a viable option” for the club to continue unless “a miracle happens and this remains an ice rink,” he said.

Carrie Drake, a Loudoun Knights parent and volunteer, said the closure also hits women’s teams.

“Who’s to say that Washington, DC, can’t have a women’s professional hockey team, and you know, Loudoun County, the Loudoun Knights had the very first girls CBHL team in Loudoun County,” Drake said. “We could grow that girl’s hockey program. You see that spark of the [Professional Women’s Hockey League] and maybe you could get them practicing just like the Capitals practice at MedStar in Arlington.”

The training center also serves the figure skating community.

Sarah Owen’s daughter has skated at Ion for three years. The Washington Ice Skating Academy moved to the center during the pandemic because it remained open as other centers

HOCKEY TEAMS continues on page 9

ARTS

Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now

The large ice rink at the Ion International Training Center in Leesburg will be converted to a performing arts arena under plans to convert the complex to convention center.

Arts Center

continued from page 8

from the start.

“Then, of course, COVID,” she said of the pandemic shutdown that followed early in 2020. The business survived the pandemic and rebuilt revenues moving back toward profitability, but then hit a plateau.

Setayesh points to a change in family’s spending behaviors after COVID. “Youth sports used to be in the top three on the list of household expenditures, now it’s number 17,” she said.

With more parents working from home, sending their children to sports camps during the summer became less of a need and more of a luxury.

“Now, instead of 10 weeks of camp, they signed their kids off for three weeks of camp. The rest of the money they spend on better vacations, entertainment and home improvements,” she said. That pull-back impacted a critical revenue source for the center.

Over the past several months, Setayesh said she worked to develop a business plan that would meet the commitments to investors in the multi-million-dollar facility. She said her experience with the Loudoun Symphony and serving on the Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce board of directors resulted in the concept of converting the

Hockey Teams

continued from page 8

closed. She said the center is well tailored for WISA’s needs.

“It’s very hard to have an ice dancer and a freestylist on the session, because the ice dance covers the entire ice and uses it in a pattern,” Owen said. “It’s hard to find ice that is amenable to both of those.”

Owen said figure skater parents raised concerns to coaches two weeks ago and were told that changes were coming but that the group had nothing to worry about.

Drake and Desjarlais said the lack of advance notice of the closure leaves them few options.

Desjarlais said he got a phone call Feb. 3 telling him that Ion would be moving in a different direction. He also said he received a statement indicating the Washington Little Capitals had been informed of the potential for a facility use change a year ago, a courtesy he said Ion’s owners hadn’t extended to him.

“I am personally frustrated that I’ve gone an entire season without this critical information about our pending future,” Desjarlais said.

The Loudoun Knights have roughly a month until tryouts. Some parents are calling for the Leesburg Town Council to step in.

Council member Zach Cummings said

space to an arts and convention center.

“This county has been wanting a performing arts center for the past 20 years,” she said, noting that leaders in both the Leesburg and Loudoun County governments have highlighted the need.

“The county can’t do it. They’ve done a couple of feasibility studies. What the problem is if you build something too small that is just for the community’s needs and it’s not feasible. If you build it big enough to bring big acts to carry the community needs, the price goes up,” Setayesh said. “The county won’t pay for it. Same with the town.

that he’d received emails and that members of the community had reached out to him about the transition.

“If someone came forward or had ideas, or had thoughts about how they could open a new ice rink in Leesburg, I’d be all ears,” Cummings said. “I’d be happy to roll my sleeves up and help from the town standpoint and the council standpoint to help get that done.”

Drake said that it was too late.

“In the long term, there will be an opportunity to build up some ice sports again, but it is the end of the road for these kids,” Drake said. “It’s not like we can stop and pick it back up.”

“I’ve been involved in youth hockey in the Northern Virginia region for 15 years, and I’ve been involved in multiple clubs, and I’m very grateful for all those experiences. Through it, all the Loudoun Knights organization is somewhere that I finally felt like I had a home,” Desjarlais said. “I think it’s because of just the amazing families and coaches and players that we’ve had over this five-year period, I’ve developed lifelong friendships.

“The worst part for me about this entire process is how damaging this is to people I care about, aside from hockey. We’re such a tight-knit organization, and even though there may be potential opportunities for kids to move on and play elsewhere, it will never be the same again for them.” n

They’ve tried all sorts of different venues. It’s just never been feasible.

“So, I thought, bingo, this is the way to get the performing arts center,” she said.

And with the National Conference Center, the county’s largest meeting space, eyeing a conversation to residential uses, the shortage of event venues is expected to increase.

Under the plan, Ion’s small ice rink will convert to a convention center with seating for 1,000 and associated rooms for breakout meetings. That section could host anything from trade shows to wedding recep-

tions, she said.

In the large ice arena, which can seat more than 6,000, a permanent stage is planned — one large enough for local theatrical performances, orchestra or symphony concerts, as well as major touring acts. The arena also could host sporting events, including figure skating shows.

“It’s about creating a place where music, theater, dance, and celebrations of all kinds have a home, where voices are amplified, and creativity thrives,” the company said in its announcement.

The conversion is planned to be accomplished with reconstruction of the interior spaces, and will not require zoning changes or other public review, she said. Construction is expected to begin in May, with the reopening planned in October.

The center’s closure will impact some 200 families in involved in the youth hockey leagues and 100 skaters who train there, in addition to the small but enthusiastic members of curling clubs. In recent weeks, some of mounted objection to the decision and criticized the management of the complex.

Setayesh said she is disappointed by the “misinformation and negativity” that has circulated.

“They have every right to be mad. We built them an ice rink. We created a community. Now we’re yanking away from them. There’s no two ways about that and that’s going to hurt, but change always does,” Setayesh said. n

Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now

The Ion International Training Center in Leesburg opened in 2019. New plans will convert the ice-skating complex into a conference center.

Education

MATA Reports More Applicants After Admissions Change

BY AMBER LUCAS alucas@loudounnow.org

A change in the admissions process for the Monroe Advanced Technical Academy has resulted in a surge of new applicants this year.

School Board member Sumera Rashid (Little River) asked for a review of the admissions process last year and spearheaded the October vote to implement a lottery process for admissions. She raised concerns that students with disabilities enrolled in MATA decreased from 17% to 9% in recent years, a trend that that undermines the school division’s core values.

The admissions process changed from requiring students to provide a résumé, be enrolled in Algebra 1 or higher, have a counselor recommendation that the student will graduate on time, have a career goals statement, provide their PSAT scores and a transcript. Successful applicants were selected by a committee.

Under the new process, only Algebra 1, GPA and PSAT scores and an on-time graduation date are required. Selections

will be made by a lottery.

In the first admissions cycle since the change, preliminary application numbers are showing more interest in the program since last year. According to Director of Academic Programs Katie Clark, the numbers from this year are higher than the

entire pool of applicants last year.

Last year, the total number of applicants was 2,239. As of Feb. 3, there are approximately 2,640 applications. The deadline for applications was Monday, Feb. 10. Asked if there also was an increase in the number students with disabilities applying, Public

Information Officer Dan Adams said it was “too soon to tell.”

“I’m very curious, and I’m excited to know,” Rashid said about the MATA numbers.

During board meetings last year, the change to a lottery system for MATA was opposed by current MATA students, staff members and alumni. Their complaints hinged on the idea that reducing the entrance requirements would “dilute” the program by allowing students who were not as serious as others. They also criticized the lack of public input before the change.

“Students who are passionate and genuinely want to learn will be distracted by those that only apply … to get out of their home school. Inclusivity and taking into account students’ disabilities and differing circumstances is important, but it can still be done without reducing the prestige and academic integrity of MATA,” Helena Hosseini told the school board in November. Most speakers also acknowledged the decline in the population of students with disabilities in the program but maintained that the lottery system needs to be studied and changed. n

Amber Lucas/Loudoun Now

The Academies of Loudoun, housing Monroe Advanced Technical Academy, The Academy of Science, and the Academy of Engineering and Technology.

Schools Look to Outsource Language Credit Testing

BY AMBER LUCAS alucas@loudounnow.org

Loudoun County Public Schools may outsource evaluations for its Credit Through Testing initiative, which allows high school students to earn language credits and a seal of biliteracy on their diploma by taking an assessment on their chosen language.

Currently, the assessment is an internal process for the school division. It consists of two essays from prompts translated into the chosen language. The school division offers 28 languages for the test, with Sanskrit being the most recent addition. The window for students to sign up ends in October and the tests are given in November of each year. Results are delivered in the spring semester. Students may earn up to three language credits through the test.

Kelly James, supervisor of world languages and cultures, said the assessment gives students an opportunity to get credit for languages learned outside of school. Students may also qualify for the seal of biliteracy on their diploma through this test, something that some colleges will ac-

cept as a language credit as well.

While this test does benefit many students each year, there is some potential for expansion should the division decide to hire a third-party testing service to take over. In a presentation to the School Board’s Curriculum and Instruction Committee, James identified challenges involved with the internal process, including offering fewer languages than surrounding counties, difficulty hiring qualified assessors in some languages, and accurately translating prompts. Also, she said, the narrow testing window results in a long wait until results are delivered.

She said moving to a third-party testing service would alleviate many of these limitations. It would be web-based with a standards-based proficiency measure, streamlining results delivery, and almost doubling the languages offered.

According to K-12 Director of Teaching and Learning Jeff Rounsley, the school division only adds languages when they have 50 families speaking it. However, he said that this is an arbitrary number and adding more from the third-party service will better encompass the language diversity in the schools.

James said that the faster results from

the web-based third-party service might also allow for a second round of testing in the spring semester.

“Because of our narrow assessment window, we often get students who transfer to LCPS after October, and a lot of times those counselors, if they are students who are English language learners, for example, who are maybe biliterate in Spanish, because they’ve missed that window, they’re not provided the opportunity to earn credits in Spanish, so that we’re looking as a way to expand that opportunity to those students,” she said.

Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning Neil Slevin also identified the third-party switch as budget neutral, as any money directed at the third-party will no longer have to be spent inside the division to administer the test.

Board member Sumera Rashid (Little River) supported the idea of moving to a third party to expand opportunities, especially since she is bilingual, she said. Committee Chair Lauren Shernoff (Leesburg) also supported the idea, especially since it was budget neutral.

The proposal will move to a committee vote at its next meeting. n

Rock Ridge Students to Perform at International Festival

Rock Ridge Performing Arts is one of eight high schools in the nation selected to perform at the 2025 International Thespian Festival at Indiana University in June.

Students in Rock Ridge High School’s theater program will perform “The Prince of Egypt” as part of the festival’s Main Stage Showcase, which honors student theater groups and teachers as well as allowing them to perform in front of thousands of fellow thespians.

This opportunity comes with $10,000 from the Educational Theater Foundation’s Craig Zadan Pathway for Racial Equity in the Arts grant. The grant was created to honor the late Craig Zaden, who dedicated his life to fighting racial inequity in theater and is given to high school productions that help create dialogue around race and inequity.

“We are beyond grateful for this incredible opportunity,” Rock Ridge Artistic Director Anthony Cimino-Johnson stated. “The Pathways Grant has given our students the ability to share their voices and talents with a wider audience, and performing at ITF is a dream come true. This

Rock Ridge Performing Arts students perform their 2025 musical “The Prince of Egypt.”

moment belongs to our students and their unwavering dedication to the arts.”

RRPA has launched a GoFundMe campaign to support the students’ travel and participation in the festival.

SCHOOL notebook

Lovettsville First Graders Share HeARTs

Lovettsville Elementary School first graders have created heartthemed artwork that is on display at businesses and community facilities around town.

The Lovettsville is Full of HeART initiative is being promoted on the Discover Lovettsville, VA social media pages, asking residents to walk through town and take pictures of the art they find and post it with the tag “#LOVEttsvilleFullOfHeART.”

Woodgrove Activities Coord. Wins SHINE Award

Woodgrove High School Student

Activities Coordinator Jeff Schutte is this month’s Spotlighting Heroes In Education award winner, recognized for his work to improve the attendance rate at the school.

The SHINE award is given to staff members who go above in beyond to help the school system. It is a joint program with the Loudoun Education Foundation.

RRPA will perform the show for three nights for local audiences before the festival. Those performances will be June 13-15 at the Lansdowne school. n

The attendance system involves a Google Sheet with 42 tabs that tracks every aspect of student attendance, allowing counselors to look at every student individually. They also send letters to parents at benchmarks of

SCHOOL NOTEBOOK continues on page 13

Scott Sikes

Amber Lucas/Loudoun Now First graders from Lovettsville Elementary School decorated businesses downtown with heart themed artwork ahead of Valentine’s Day.

Overdose at High School, Notification Bill Advances

NORMAN K. STYER nstyer@loudounnow.org

A student drug overdose was reported at Independence High School last week, an incident that triggered an announcement by the school division.

The incident was reported to county dispatchers at 10:40 a.m. Friday. The parental notification was made in the afternoon.

The case comes as county leaders are reporting a decline in overdose deaths, a trend Sheriff Mike Chapman attributes to impactful messaging about the dangers of fentanyl.

Speaking to a gathering of the Loudoun Crime Commission last month, Chapman said fatal overdoses last year declined from an average of more than 20 to only 14. And last year there were no fatal overdoses among juveniles, he said.

“What we’re seeing is the messaging that we’re doing, reaching out to the community and the fentanyl forums that we have are having an impact,” he said. “We’re really making some really, really good headway with that. We’re proud of that.”

The requirement for school divisions to issue notifications of student overdoses was imposed by Gov. Glenn

SCHOOL notebook

continued from page 12

absenteeism, as well as holding meetings with parents, students, and counselors. The system has been adopted by almost 20 other schools.

Schutte and this system are being cited as the approximately 10% drop in the chronic absenteeism rate last school year.

“Jeff has spent countless hours outside of his official role, supporting our school. This dedication showcases his selflessness and commitment to education and LCPS,” Chris Painter, principal of Discovery Elementary stated in an announcement.

For more information, go to lcps.org/SHINE.

Youngkin last year after the Park View High School community saw 11 overdoses in a six-week period. Four happened at the school, three of which required Narcan, and two that required CPR, Chapman said. “We could have lost students there, and we didn’t.”

Chapman said he was disturbed that school administrators were reluctant to notify parents in the area.

“You can also notify the county at large, but it’s important that parents in a particular area know what’s going on so that they can address it with their children, that they can take care of it, that they know what’s going on,” he said.

Youngkin’s executive order, which required notification within 24 hours of a student overdose, will expire when he leaves office next year.

During this year’s General Assembly session Del. JJ Singh (D-26) and Del. Geary Higgins (R-30) carried bills to incorporate the notification requirement into law. The bills were combined into one, which was approved by the House of Delegates and is under review in the Senate.

“It’s important that we get something codified in a law that we can actually have the ability to enforce and make sure that our parents out there are notified,” Chapman said. n

VML Hosts Middle School Essay Contest

The Virginia Municipal League is hosting an essay contest for Virginia’s seventh and eighth graders. The prompt is “If I were Mayor…” Entrants should identify a problem in the community, ask a community member about possible solutions, and write 300-500 words.

Regional winners selected will receive a $150 gift card and a plaque, and the statewide winner will receive a $250 gift card and a plaque. The runner up in the region with the statewide winner will become that region’s winner.

The deadline to submit essays is March 17. Entrants can submit online or mail their essays to VML’s P.O. box in Richmond. The address and entry form can be found at vml.org/Opportunities/Essay-Contest. n

Claude Moore Foundation Awards $2.4M to Charities

The Claude Moore Charitable Foundation has awarded $2.391 million to 20 Loudoun County organizations during its recently completed grant cycle. Since 2020, the foundation has contributed $15 million to nonprofits serving Loudoun.

In fulfillment of the foundation’s mission, the grants provide operating support to organizations dedicated to “giving a leg up” to under-resourced populations and individuals living with disabilities.

“These annual grants reflect our commitment to strengthening organizations that offer essential services in education, resiliency training, life skills training, and more, with the ultimate goal of helping people in Loudoun County and across the Commonwealth create a better quality of

life,” stated foundation Executive Director J Lambert.

The 2025 grantees serving Loudoun County and their awards include:

A Place to Be, $185,000

African American Community Alliance, $250,000

Community Foundation for Loudoun & Northern Fauquier Counties, $300,000

Every Citizen Has Opportunities (ECHO), $270,000

Future Kings, $25,000

Girl Scout Council of Nation’s Capital, $45,000

Healthworks for Northern Virginia, $95,000

Legacy Farms, $70,000

Loudoun Education Foundation,

Rogers Selected for Marshall Award in Ethical Leadership

The Board of Directors of the George C. Marshall International Center have selected Admiral Mike Rogers, U.S. Navy, Ret., to receive its fourth annual Marshall Award in Ethical Leadership. The award will be presented at the Center’s annual gala on Friday, April 4 at the Army Navy Country Club in Arlington.

Rogers served in the U.S. Navy for nearly 37 years, ending his service as a four-star admiral. He culminated his career in uniform with a tour as both the Commander of U.S. Cyber Command and Director, National Security Agency— creating the Department of Defense’s then newest combatant command and leading the largest intelligence organization in the free world.

The George C. Marshall Award in Ethical Leadership is presented to one recipient each year who embodies the principles of selfless service, unwavering integrity and visionary leadership exemplified by General Marshall, who was a Nobel Peace Laureate, Chief of Staff of the Army, Secretary of State and Secretary of Defense. Previous recipients of the award were Col. Greg Gadson (U.S. Army, Ret.) in 2022, former Secretary of Defense Robert Gates in 2023 and CISA Director Jen Easterly in 2024.

“Admiral Rogers has dedicated decades of service to our nation, exemplifying the model of principled and effective leadership that General Marshall set for all who aspire to lead with purpose,”

said Marshall Center Chairman Thomas Greenspon. “His unwavering commitment to the greater good and steadfast devotion to serving his country make him a truly deserving recipient of this year’s George C. Marshall Award in Ethical Leadership.”

“It is a great privilege to have my name associated with General Marshall,” Rogers stated. “His lifetime of service to our country and unfailing dedication to his principles have long inspired me. I thank the Marshall Center for honoring me with this award, and I am especially grateful to join the list of impressive leaders who have received it before me”.

Proceeds from the gala will be used to support the non-profit organization’s activities, including its growing ethical leadership training program. Five-Star Character: The George C. Marshall Ethical Leadership Conference was created to inspire and develop leaders among high school juniors and seniors. Using examples from Marshall’s long career of service, participants learn and apply these enduring lessons in a modern context. Thanks to donor support, all students attend for free.

Learn more at georgecmarshall.org. n

$120,000

Loudoun Free Clinic, $100,000

Loudoun Literacy Council, $120,000

Loudoun Serenity House, $85,000

Loudoun Youth, Inc., $80,000

National Capital Area Council, Boy Scouts, $45,000

Northern Virginia Dental Clinic, $90,000

Northern Virginia Family Service, $60,000

Shenandoah University/Claude Moore Center for Literacy, $101,000.

The Arc of Loudoun, $260,000

The Ryan Bartel Foundation, $60,000

Women Giving Back, $30,000

Invitational grants made to organizations in other areas of the commonwealth

Volunteers

include: Our Stomping Ground, $95,000; Center for Excellence in Education, $130,000; James Madison University/ Precious Time, $88,000; and the Virginia Health Care Foundation, $100,000.

The foundation also supports the Claude Moore Scholars program, a statewide initiative that provides funding to school divisions for healthcare education programs. The Claude Moore Scholars grants will be announced in late spring. The foundation has invested more than $20 million in this program.

“For nearly 40 years, we have focused on organizations that empower individuals to create a path to success and build a solid foundation for a brighter future,” Lambert stated. n

Needed to Build Historic Records Database

Morven Park is seeking volunteers to help with database entry for the 246 Years Project, a social justice initiative dedicated to documenting the names and life stories of enslaved men, women, and children in Loudoun County.

For 246 years, the life events of enslaved individuals were recorded in a variety of documents by enslavers managing their “property.” These records survive today in the archives of historic sites, community history organizations, and local courts and are being organized within the custom-built, online database at morvenpark.org/246years.

Morven Park is looking for individ-

uals who are passionate about making a difference in the community and have experience working with historic documents. A two-hour training session is required and all data entry will be done at Morven Park during weekdays. Once trained, volunteers may sign up for a three-hour shift either from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. or 1 to 4 p.m. From now through the end of February, shifts are only available on weekdays. Starting March 1, workstations will be available seven days per week. All volunteers must be at least 16 years old.

Learn more and sign up at  morvenpark.org/support/volunteer.html n

If you value quality local journalism ... Tell them you saw it in Loudoun Now.

Rogers

School Teacher Assistant

Charged with Intoxication

A teacher assistant at Park View High School in Sterling was charged with public intoxication by the Sheriff ’s Office following an incident while he was at school on Friday.

According to the Sheriff ’s Office, a school resource officer was alerted a little before noon on Feb. 7 that Travis Jones was possibly under the influence while at school. The SRO’s investigation ended in Jones’ arrest. He was taken to the Loudoun County Adult Detention Center in Leesburg where he was released on his own recognizance.

According to court records, Jones also was charged with driving while intoxicated on Dec. 2, 2024. He was released on bail in that case.

He is scheduled to appear in court Feb. 27 on the DWI charge and on March 19 for the drunk in public charge.

Grand Jury Indicts Man Charged in Father’s Murder

A 19-year-old man charged with murder in his father’s death will advance to a trial after a Loudoun grand jury found probable cause to advance the case Monday.

He was indicted on second-degree murder, using a firearm in commission of a felony and larceny of a firearm.

At approximately 6:30 p.m. Aug. 9, 2024, deputies responded to a report of a shooting on Leanne Terrace in the TGM Moorefield apartment complex in Ashburn. They found Jerome Edward Thompson Sr., 50, suffering from three gunshot wounds. He died at the scene. Thompson Jr., 19, was arrested at the scene.

During a Jan. 31 preliminary hearing, Sheriff ’s Office Sgt. Bradley Foster testified that he had spoken with Thompson Jr. shortly after arriving on the scene and he admitted to shooting his father. Bodyworn camera footage viewed during the hearing shows Thompson Jr. saying, “He said he was going to kill me, and he ran toward me.”

A five-day Circuit Court jury trial is set to begin June 9.

Man Indicted in Sterling Murder Case

The case against a man charged with murder in the fatal shooting of two people in Sterling is advancing after a Loudoun grand jury on Monday handed down three indictments.

Marlyn Medrano-Ortiz, 18, is charged with two counts of second-degree murder and use of a firearm in commission of a felony. He is a member of the MS-13 gang, Sheriff

Public Safety

Mike Chapman said during an Oct. 25 press conference.

Deputies were called to the area of Huntington Square and Ridgetop Circle just after 4:30 a.m. Aug. 28, 2024, after callers reported a disturbance in a parking lot. They arrived on the scene to find Mijal Conejero-Romera, 22, of Sterling, and Diego Alexander Woollett, 22, of Arlington, suffering from gunshot wounds. Both victims were transported to an area hospital for treatment of traumatic wounds. They died at the hospital.

Originally the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office only filed one murder charge in the case but are now prosecuting Conejero-Romera for both murders. He is scheduled to appear back before the Circuit Court on March 13 at 9 a.m.

Would-be Thieves Crash Car into Loudoun Guns

The Leesburg Police Department is investigating an attempted burglary of Loudoun Guns that occurred early Monday morning.

At 3 a.m. Feb. 10, officers responded to reports of attempted burglary, and found a car had crashed into the front doors of the Industrial Court business in an attempt to gain entry. No entry was made, and no property from Loudoun Guns was stolen. Officers determined that the unoccupied vehicle was stolen from a local business.

The investigation is ongoing and the agency asks that businesses and residents in the area review surveillance footage and contact them at 703-771-4500 or email at PoliceInvestigations@LeesburgVA.gov if they have relevant information.

A similar - but successful - theft occurred at the gun store last year. No arrests have been announced in that case.

Sheriff’s Deputy Indicted for Having Sex with Inmate

A Loudoun grand jury on Monday handed down two indictments for a former Sheriff ’s Office deputy charged with having sex with an inmate at the Adult Detention Center near Leesburg.

Mason Zimmerman, 30, was arrested Oct. 27, 2024, after he allegedly had sex with a female inmate Oct. 25. He is being prosecuted on two counts.

According to the criminal complaint filed in District Court, Zimmerman admitted to the charge in an interview with another deputy. He was released on a $5,000 unsecured bond.

The Sheriff ’s Office released a statement Oct. 28 stating that Zimmerman had be terminated as an employee.

Zimmerman is scheduled to reappear before a Circuit Court judge April 10 to enter a plea to the charges.

Trial Set for Man Charged in Fatal Carjacking

A seven-day jury trial has been scheduled for a man charged in a July 2024 fatal carjacking during which Silver Spring, MD, resident Melody Waldecker was killed.

In October, Jose Aguilar-Martinez, 21, was indicted on nine criminal charges including first-degree murder, carjacking, robbery resulting in death, two counts of grand larceny, reckless driving, not reporting an accident and not reporting an accident that

resulted in death.

He is also being charged with felony homicide and the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office has dropped the carjacking charge.

At approximately 11:39 a.m. July 28, deputies were called to the 7-Eleven at Towncenter Plaza in Sterling for a report of a carjacking. Waldecker was struck and killed. She died at the scene.

Aguilar-Martinez remains in custody. The trial is scheduled to begin Jan. 5, 2026. n

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Frazier Advocates for Small Business Lending in Congress

Alice P. Frazier, president and CEO of BCT-Bank of Charlestown, testified before the House Small Business Committee on Feb. 5 calling on lawmakers to advance regulatory and tax relief to promote lending to small businesses.

She was representing the Independent Community Bankers of America. She is vice chair of the national organization.

Frazier supported three regulatory proposals that would aid the work of small lenders, as well as proposals to facilitate new sources of capital and the formation of new community banks.

She noted that community banks account for an outsized share of the nation’s small-business loans because of their relationship-based business model.

BUSINESS briefs

Southland Establishes Loudoun as Regional Hub

Southland Industries has consolidated its Mid-Atlantic regional headquarters in renovated office space at 21000 Atlantic Blvd.

The 47,000-square-foot facility will serve as a hub for the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing building systems company’s employees in the region.

Founded in 1949, Southland Industries has grown to become a nationwide team of 7,400 employees providing engineering, construction, service, and energy expertise. For more than two decades, the company’s Mid-Atlantic Division has been based in Loudoun.

destination development and marketing an exceptional experience to travel consumers worldwide.

The board is comprised of up to 24 elected members serving staggered terms.

“The new Congress and administration present an opportunity to transform the regulatory environment for community banks, sparking economic growth in rural, suburban, and urban markets,” Frazier said. “While we are ready to lend today to all qualified borrowers, our capacity could be yet further enhanced by regulatory and tax relief that would allow us to direct more resources toward helping our customers.” n

LOUDOUN CEMETERY CONSERVANCY

A 501(c)(3) organization

The LCC is seeking appLiCaTions for a granT program To preserve and resTore hisToriC CemeTeries in Loudoun CounTy

To appLy, The CemeTery musT have a majoriTy of The deCeased born prior To 1900 wiTh prioriTy for afriCan ameriCan, ameriCan revoLuTion, war of 1812, CiviL war, and famiLy CemeTeries of The period

appLiCaTions wiLL be aCCepTed beTween february 15, 2025, and apriL 15, 2025

aLL appLiCaTions reCeived wiLL be reviewed and ranked for funding as avaiLabLe resourCes permiT

aLL appLiCanTs musT show ThaT They have LegaL permission To represenT The CemeTery

if The CemeTery you represenT is inTeresTed, pLease ConTaCT us aT info@loudouncemeteryconservancy.org

appLiCaTions are avaiLabLe on our websiTe: www.loudouncemeteryconservancy.org

“Although we moved to a new location, we chose to stay within Loudoun County as it provides many strategic opportunities and the ability to continuously grow our business within the region. This new location is not just an investment in the County, but also an investment in our people—many of whom are based in Loudoun County,” stated Division Manager Matt Bruening.

“We are proud to retain Southland Industries in Loudoun County and celebrate their significant investment in a beautifully renovated office space,” stated Buddy Rizer, executive director of Loudoun Economic Development in the announcement. “Southland’s choice to consolidate their regional headquarters here reflects their confidence in Loudoun as a strategic location for growth. Their continued presence strengthens our local economy, supports hundreds of jobs, and showcases Loudoun as a hub for innovation in the MEP industry. We thank Southland Industries for their long-standing commitment to our county and look forward to supporting their success for years to come.”

Learn more at southlandind.com.

Visit Loudoun Seeks Board Members

Visit Loudoun is seeking individuals to serve on its board of directors for terms from July 1 through June 30, 2028, with a transition period beginning in May.

Visit Loudoun, a not-for-profit organization, is the destination management organization for Loudoun County and its incorporated towns. As the county’s programmatic arm for tourism, it promotes the county to stimulate the sustainability and enhancement of Loudoun’s economy and quality of life by advocating for smart

Interested candidates should submit a resume outlining their business/ professional career, including any tourism-related experience. This may range from owning a tourism-related business, to having experience in hospitality and/or tourism marketing to volunteering with a tourism-related organization. Special business skills such as communications, community involvement, etc., should also be included. Three business references are requested along with a response to the statement: “My service on the Visit Loudoun Board of Directors will help Visit Loudoun and tourism in Loudoun County because….”

Submissions are due by close of business Feb. 28 at the Visit Loudoun office, at 112 South Street, SE, Suite 200 in Leesburg’s Market Station complex or by email to Greg Harp at  harp@visitloudoun.org.

Learn more at visitloudoun.org.

Masterpiece Academy Opens in One Loudoun

The Masterpiece Academy last week celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at its new location in Venture X Ashburn at One Loudoun.

The academy offers expert test preparation, personalized tutoring, comprehensive admissions support, and innovative curriculum design.

Founder Krishna Cart began work as an educator in the Philippines three decades ago.

She came to the U.S. with her two sons in 2005 and worked as a reading specialist with Loudoun County Public Schools. In 2009, she established the Young Scholars Circle.

“Today, that dream has evolved into The Masterpiece Academy, where we honor every learner’s individuality while equipping them for success,” she said.

She said the name The Masterpiece Academy is inspired by Ephesians 2:10: For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.

“We believe and respect the uniqueness of each learner as a masterpiece, lovingly crafted with creativity, value, and potential. We are a guide to help them create their masterpieces and goals in life,” Cart said.

Learn more at masterpiecek12.org. n

Alice P. Frazier, president and CEO of BCT-Bank of Charlestown, testified before the House Small Business Committee on Feb. 5

Towns

Lovettsville Reduces Car Fee in First Budget Session

BY HANNA PAMPALONI hpampaloni@loudounnow.org

Lovettsville residents will not be paying a $25 vehicle fee next year after the Town Council decided to reduce the charge to zero during a Feb. 6 meeting. However, most residents may see that tab shifted to their real estate tax bills.

The action to forego the vehicle licensing fee comes after county supervisors made the same decision earlier this year. For the county, tax revenue from data centers is being used to offset the roughly $7.8 million that would have been collected this year.

The board also authorized a one-time grant for towns who also reduce the fee to offset revenue they would have received in June for fiscal year 2025 and have already accounted for in their budgets. The offer will not extend to fiscal year 2026, however.

Town Manager Jason Cournoyer said to offset the roughly $53,000 collected annually by the town from the vehicle fee, the council could raise the real property rate one cent in FY 2026, which is equivalent to $54,650 in additional revenue.

The average household with two cars that have been paying $50 annually in vehicle fees will instead pay an additional $49.84 in real property taxes.

Reducing the fee this year does not mean the town cannot increase it in a future year, Cournoyer told the council Feb. 6. Although, during a January Round Hill Town Council meeting, Mayor Scott Ramsey said he thought the county would “look askance” at towns who later reinstate the fee.

“I am not under the impression that setting this to zero in 2025 impacts you setting the rate in the future as well,” Cournoyer said. “So, setting it to a zero is not eliminating the license fee in the town. I think that’s done strategically. That’s how the Board of Supervisors has done it as well.”

The motion to approve the change passed unanimously.

Council members also had their first chance to propose changes to the draft fiscal year 2026 budget, which totals $6.9 million. It is based on a real property tax rate of 14.6 cents per $100 of assessed value. That is roughly one cent higher than the equalized rate that would keep tax bills about the same as the previous year’s bill for the same parcel.

Utility rates are proposed to increase by 3%, which equates to just over $3 extra a month on the average utility bill.

The Frye Court Special Tax District fee is proposed at 23.3 cents per $100 of assessed

value, 2.3 cents above the equalized rate. One cent of the Frye Court tax is worth approximately $425.

The majority of council member questions during the work session related to the administrative overhead charges attributed to General Fund employees supporting Utility Fund operations, thus being applied to utility bills rather than tax bills. The total amount charged is $257,474, a 24% increase over last year.

The employee with the most time spent on utility services is the utility billing and administrative services manager with 70% of their time charged to the Utility Fund. That is followed closely by the treasurer with 60%. The town manager and Community Engagement and Economic Development coordinator each categorize 30% of their time spent on utility services.

Council Member Tom Budnar asked what the CEED coordinator is doing for the Utility Fund.

“So CEED has done a lot of work products to help market and to message,” Cournoyer said. “So, the CEED, along with the clerk, both are posting on social media, working with businesses when there’s conservation issues. She also reaches out when there is an actual service disruption. Again, the CEED is our is a community outreach person, so when folks call she intervenes and tries to help.”

Mayor Christopher Hornbaker asked if the percentages between the employees could be adjusted at an equal rate – meaning if the CEED is to be the only employee designated for utility-related community engagement, increasing her time by a certain percentage, could the town manager or town clerk be reduced by that same percentage.

“Once I say this, I think you’ll recognize, we’re very thin,” Cournoyer said. “So, there’s a lot of cross coverage, especially with the CEED and utility billing, simply for leave, for lunch. There are dedicated times when it’s just the CEED up there, manning that and fielding any questions, taking payments. She will process payments, if the treasurer and the daily billing manager are gone.”

Cournoyer said he might be able to reallocate some of the work, but likely not reduce anyone’s to zero.

“If I could do less than 30%, I would be happier, too,” he said. “But it’s just kind of the nature of utilities.”

The council is expected to have two more work sessions before a holding their fiscal year 2026 public hearing and taking a final vote. n

AROUND towns

HAMILTON

Hearing for Vehicle Fee Set

The Town Council is poised to reduce its $25 vehicle fee to zero dollars following the county Board of Supervisor’s decision to do the same earlier this year. But residents will have an opportunity to weigh in on the proposal before a final decision is made.

The council will hold a public hearing Tuesday, Feb. 25 at 7 p.m. to consider the change and the town’s other annual rates and fees.

If the change is approved, the town would be eligible to receive a one-time grant from the county to offset the revenue they would have received this fiscal year which totals $14,200. However, council members will need to find a way to offset the revenue in the upcoming fiscal year 2026.

LOVETTSVILLE

FY 2026 Art Grants Accepted

The town is accepting applications for fiscal year 2026 local arts grant funding through Feb. 22.

Applications must be submitted to the Town Hall at 6 E. Pennsylvania Ave. between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday or emailed to Sarah Mosely at smoseley@lovettsvilleva.gov.

Applications will be presented to the Town Council during its March 6 business meeting that starts at 6:30 p.m. Grant funding is contingent on the town receiving the Creative Communities Partnership Grant from the Virginia Commission of Arts. Grant awards notifications are expected this summer.

PURCELLVILLE

Officer Holman Promoted to Operations Lieutenant

Town Police Officer Michael Holman has been promoted to the rank of lieutenant, the department announced Tuesday afternoon.

He will serve as the department’s operations lieutenant and has been serving as acting administrative lieutenant since August after it was vacated by Barry Dufek’s promotion to department chief.

Holman joined the department last April with 22 years of prior law enforcement experience.

“Despite his brief tenure with Purcellville, Lieutenant Holman has already proven himself to be a valuable asset who is dedicated, hardworking, and willing to go above and beyond for both his fellow

officers and the Department,” according to the announcement.

As the operations commander, he will oversee all aspects of patrol, to include daily operations, officer staffing, special operations/events, and provide support for critical incidents.

Applications for Art Grant Funding Open

Local nonprofit arts organizations are invited to submit requests for funding to the Purcellville Arts Council to be considered for inclusion in the town’s proposal for the Virginia Commission for the Arts Creative Communities Partnership Grant Program.

Eligible arts organizations must apply by March 3.

Through the grant program, the commission will match up to $4,500 of tax money given by the town to stand-alone arts organizations.

Eligible arts organizations interested in applying are required to submit the online application, the organization’s W-9, and the organization’s 501(c)3 letter. Eligible applicants must focus primarily on the arts, be incorporated in Virginia and have their headquarters and home seasons, or activities equivalent to a home season, in the state.

The Arts Council will review the applications for funding requests during their March 10 meeting. Eligible arts organizations may either apply online or mail the proposal with all of the required information to Purcellville Arts Council, Attn: Creative Communities Partnership Grant, 221 S. Nursery Ave, Purcellville, VA 20132 by March 3.

ROUND HILL

Town, AT&T Ink Water Tower Lease

The Town of Round Hill and AT&T last week came to terms on a new lease for the telecom provider’s space on the Evening Star Water Tower.

The company first installed equipment on the tower in 2011 and renewed the lease in 2018. However, that agreement expired in 2023. During renewal negotiations, the company’s representatives sought to lower the lease rate, while town representatives took the position that the previous lease was based on a below market rate.

The town’s view prevailed under the new lease, which is based on a higher $50,400 annual rate, retroactive the expiration date, and 3% annual escalators through 2028.

The town expects to have other rental opportunities this year with the construction gearing up for a new water tower on the south side of town. n

Round Hill Begins Celebration of Town’s 125th Anniversary

BY NORMAN K. STYER nstyer@loudounnow.com

Convened in the building that housed the store operated by the town’s first mayor, George T. Ford, the Round Hill Town Council last week commemorated the 125th anniversary of the town’s incorporation, on Feb. 5, 1900, with a simple resolution.

That ceremonial action served as a kick-off for a series of celebrations, educational opportunities, and public history displays throughout the year.

In addition to a display of historical photos at Town Hall, town leaders are planning to develop a self-guided walking tour this spring to highlight the evolution of the town’s infrastructure, notable buildings, and the stories of its residents.

A special historical display and gathering of residents sharing stories about the town is being planned

during the annual Hometown Festival, held on the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend.

During the summer, a special anniversary celebration at the Downtown Park will highlight the town’s legacy with guest speakers and presentations, including the unveiling of new outdoor displays featuring the town’s history.

Also planned is a “Round Hill Through the Years” video, for release in the fall, with information about the founding of the town, significant events, and interviews.

Town staff members are encouraging residents, past residents and community organizations to join in the programs during the year. They also are asking for the sharing of historical materials including photographs, documents, or personal stories-related to the history of Round Hill.

For more information, contact the town office at 540-338-7878 n

Obituaries

Dennis Darnes

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of DENNIS B. DARNES, 60. Born on February 29, 1964 in Takoma Park, Maryland and peacefully passed at home on February 4, 2025, in Leesburg, Virginia.

Dennis is survived by his loving wife Amy E. Darnes, whom he married in 2001, and their two daughters Charlotte and Emily.

He was the son of the late Harry T. Darnes, Jr. and Donna L. Darnes. He also leaves his brother-in-law, Les Cummings; and 3 nephews, Brock, Chad, and Dylan Pennington. In addition to his father, Dennis was predeceased by sister, Daryl Cummings.

Dennis graduated from Park View High School in 1982 and Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University in 1987 with a B.S. degree in civil engineering.

Dennis was a dedicated father and

husband, always prioritizing his family above all else. His daughters Charlotte and Emily meant the world to him, and he was immensely proud of them and their accomplishments.

Dennis was a hardworking individual who spent 19 years with the Town of Leesburg as a Professional Engineer. He was a respected colleague and friend to many in the community, always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need.

In his free time, Dennis enjoyed reading, outdoor sports and spending time in nature. He was an avid sportsman who found solace in the great outdoors.

Dennis will be remembered for his kind heart, vast knowledge and intelligence, and unwavering love for his family. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

May he rest in peace.

The family will receive friends for visitation on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, from 12 to 1 pm at the Loudoun Funeral Chapel located at 158 Catoctin Cr. SE Leesburg, Virginia 20175.

Funeral services will follow the visitation beginning at 1:00 PM.  Interment will be in Leesburg Union Cemetery, Leesburg, VA. Memorial contributions may be sent to American Cancer Society 124 Park Street, SE Vienna, VA 22180. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.loudounfuneralchapel.com

Summer Camp Guide

Choosing the Best Summer Camp for Your Child

With still more snow in the forecast, it may be difficult to focus on the fastapproaching summer break. But now is the time to act to make sure your children get enrolled in their (or your) preferred camps. With so many options available, from outdoor adventures to educational programs, choosing the right camp can be a daunting task. However, with some careful consideration and planning, parents can select a camp that will create lasting memories and provide valuable growth opportunities for their children.

Know Your Child’s Interests and Needs

The first step in choosing a summer camp is understanding your child’s interests, personality, and needs. Does your child love nature and the outdoors? Consider a traditional camping experience, such as one that involves hiking, fishing, and other outdoor activities. Is your child passionate about arts and crafts, coding, or sports? Many camps cater to specific interests, offering specialized programs that focus on everything from theater to robotics.

Take the time to ask your child what

they’re looking for in a camp. Some children are eager to try new activities, while others may prefer familiar routines. Understanding your child’s temperament can help narrow down your options.

Research the Camp’s Reputation

When selecting a camp look for reviews and testimonials from other parents whose children have attended. Word-of-mouth referrals are often the most reliable way to gauge the quality of a camp. Additionally, check the camp’s accreditation status. The American Camp Association provides accreditation to camps that meet high standards for health, safety, and program quality.

Do some research on the camp’s history and staff. How long has it been in operation? What are the qualifications and experience of the counselors and staff? Camps with experienced staff members who are trained in first aid, child development, and group leadership are more likely to offer a safe and positive environment for your child.

CHOOSING A CAMP continues on page 22

Leesburg Camps Feature Swimming, Adventure

The Town of Leesburg will offer a variety of summer camp activities at Ida Lee Park. Children from preschool age to middle school can choose from full-day and half-day programs, with swimming lessons also available.

Summer camp registration opens for town residents Feb. 27 and March 6 for others.

program helps participants explore interesting and destinations around the D.C., Virginia, West Virginia, and Maryland areas. Teens will travel to water parks and adventure sites like rafting, tubing, climbing, hiking, and golf. Skating, museums and movies also are on the schedule. Children will leave and return to Ida Lee Park each day via a school bus or passenger van. They’ll need to bring a lunch, snacks, drinks, water bottle, swimsuit, towel and sunscreen to camp each day.

Ida Fun Camp: Designed for children from kindergarten through sixth grade, this recreational camp program includes indoor and outdoor pool time, art projects, structured indoor and outdoor games and activities, hikes, songs, and more. Campers should bring two snacks, a bag lunch, full water bottle, and sunscreen each day and a swimsuit and towel each day. Every Wednesday campers will visit AV Symington Aquatics center

Teen Adventure Camp: Designed for students entering seventh, eighth and ninth grades, the

Last Hurrah Camp: For ages 5 -12, this one-week session closes the camp season with outdoor and indoor games, and arts and crafts time. Campers should bring two snacks, a bag lunch, a full water bottle, and sunscreen to camp each day Kamp Keepers provides additional games and supervision before and after camp hours each day. For details and registration, go to leesburgva.gov/departments/ parks-recreation/programs/camps. n

County Camp Signup Opens March 11

The Loudoun County Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Services will offer a variety of full-day, half-day, and special interest camps for ages 3-15 this summer.

On tap this year are camps to help children discover their interests in outdoor adventure, sports, art, horsemanship, science, nature, engineering, dance, music, theater, and more. The programs will be held at community centers, parks, and schools throughout the county.

Many programs will fill up early. The full roster of summer programs, the PRCS Summer Camp Guide, can be viewed on the department’s website or picked up at community centers, park offices, and libraries.

Veteran camp participants and those who qualify for the PRCS CARES discount program will be first in line when the early registration period opens March 4. They’ll have a few days to sign up for this year’s offerings before the programs open up to the general public starting March 11.

Daze Summer Camp is for children in grades K-5 and is designed to stimulate creative minds, build healthy bodies, provide age-appropriate challenges, and develop lasting friendships. Fest Summer Camp is for middle-school children. Both offer weekly activities that include science and nature, arts and crafts, sports, group games, music and drama and cooking along with an end-of-summer celebration.

Camps run from June 23 to Aug. 8.

For details, go to loudoun. gov/1202/Summer-Camps. n

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Choosing a Camp

YMCA Loudoun County has something for everyone!

TRADITIONAL, SPECIALTY, SPORTS, TEEN CAMPS AND MORE.

Scan here or visit ymcadc.org to register today.

continued from page 19

Consider Camp Location and Duration

Camp location plays a significant role in the decision-making process.

Camps can be local or out-of-state, and each option has its pros and cons. Local camps may be more convenient and allow for easier communication, while out-of-state camps provide a chance for your child to experience something new and potentially develop independence.

Another factor to consider is the length of the camp. Some camps are day camps, where children attend during the day but return home each evening. Overnight camps, on the other hand, can last anywhere from a week to the entire summer. The duration of the camp should align with your child’s comfort level and your family’s schedule.

Evaluate Safety and Health Protocols

The safety and well-being of your child should be the top priority when choosing a summer camp. Look for camps with clear safety protocols in place, including supervision ratios, emergency procedures, and staff training. Ensure that the camp provides proper health care, with a nurse or medical professional on-site or readily

available in case of an emergency.

Ask about the camp’s emergency preparedness plans, especially if the camp involves outdoor activities or travel. Does the camp have a clear communication system in case of an emergency? Are there guidelines for managing allergies, medication, and special needs?

Understand the Cost and Financial Options

Summer camp fees can vary widely depending on the type of camp, duration, and location. It’s essential to determine what you are willing to spend and to understand what is included in the cost. Some camps provide meals, transportation, and equipment, while others may charge extra for these services.

If the cost of camp is a concern, check for scholarships or financial assistance programs that may be available. Many camps offer discounts for early registration or sibling sign-ups, so be sure to inquire about any moneysaving options.

Visit the Camp

If you have the opportunity, visit the camp in person before making a decision. A site visit allows you to get a feel for the environment, meet the

staff, and observe the facilities. Take a tour of the campgrounds, cabins, and recreational areas, and ask any questions you may have.

Many camps offer open houses or family tours, which can provide a deeper understanding of the camp’s culture and atmosphere. If an in-person visit isn’t feasible, many camps offer virtual tours or webinars where you can meet the staff and see the camp’s facilities remotely.

Trust Your Instincts

Ultimately, the best way to choose a summer camp is to trust your instincts. After researching, visiting, and considering all factors, choose the camp that feels like the best fit for your child. Does it align with their interests, values, and needs? Does it offer a safe and supportive environment? Trust your gut feelings about the camp, and remember that summer camp should be a positive experience that helps your child grow, learn new skills, and create unforgettable memories.

With thoughtful planning and research, choosing the best summer camp for your child can be a rewarding experience. Summer camp is more than just a fun way to pass the time; it’s an opportunity for children to gain confidence, build friendships, and explore the world around them. n

Join us at Dodona Manor in Leesburg on June 23-26, 2025 for this FREE leadership experience.

Learn about American icon General George C. Marshall, have fun and get ready to lead in the fall.

LIVE MUSIC

JUST DOUG

5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 13

Spanky’s Shenanigans, 538 E. Market St., Leesburg. spankyspub.com

LENNY BURRIDGE

5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 13

Lark Brewing Co., 24205 James Monroe Highway, Aldie. larkbrewingco.com

DAVE NEMETZ

6 to 10 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 13

Rebellion Bourbon Bar & Kitchen, 1 N. King St., Leesburg. eatatrebellion.com

OH HE DEAD

8 to 11 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 13

Tally Ho Theater, 19 W. Market St., Leesburg. $20. tallyhotheater.com

ADAM KNUDSEN

4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14

Old Farm Winery at Hartland, 23583 Fleetwood Road, Aldie. oldfarmwineryhartland.com

GREG KNELLER

5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14

Vanish Farmwoods Brewery, 42245 Black Hops Lane, Lucketts. vanishbeer.com

MYSTERY MACHINE DUO

5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14

Spanky’s Shenanigans, 538 E. Market St., Leesburg. spankyspub.com

CHRIS BOWEN

5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14

Quattro Goombas Brewery, 22860 James Monroe Highway, Aldie. quattrogoombas.com

BLUEGRASS JAM

5 to 9 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14

Notaviva Farm Brewery & Winery, 13274 Sagle Road, Hillsboro. notaviva.com

SHANE GAMBLE

5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14

Harpers Ferry Brewing, 37412 Adventure Center Lane, Loudoun Heights. harpersferrybrewing.com

DILL PICKERS

5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14

Lost Barrel Brewing, 36138 Little River Turnpike, Middleburg. lostbarrel.com

LIVE MUSIC continues on page 24

Fighting For Freedom: The Black Patriots and Loyalists

BY NORMAN K. STYER nstyer@loudounnow.org

As the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution approaches, historians are looking deeper into the roots of the nation’s founding to highlight under-told stories.

That’s true of a new exhibit on display at Leesburg’s Thomas Balch Library. A partnership between the library’s Black History Committee and the Piedmont Heritage Foundation puts the spotlight on the role the Black community played during the war—both as revolutionary patriots and as loyalists fighting to put down the rebellion against the British crown.

Committee member Gertrude Evans, a self-taught artist, brings the subjects to life in a series of paintings.

Evans began painting in the 1980s as a form of therapy during a divorce, searching for subjects on the Balch Library shelves. “Libraries change lives because it changed my life,” she said.

Evans often found inspiration in Black history and Civil Rights topics.

That’s why Exhibit Coordinator Alicia Cohen reached out to her as she began an exploration of Black soldiers during the Revolution.

Cohen, also a member of the Black History Committee, said she was surprised to learn at a conference about the large group Black loyalists who fought for the British who settled in the Canadian providence of Nova Scotia, especially in the village of Birchtown.

“I’ve been to Nova Scotia. Nobody told me about this,” she recalled thinking.

Years later as a member of the county’s VA250 commemoration committee, Cohen thought about how she could contribute to the group’s work telling the story of the nation’s founding.

She thought about exploring the stories of Black patriots. “And then it gets deeper, because we use the word patriot in a military sense. The patriot is not necessarily a person who is in the military,” she said. “A patriot could be a poet who is writing like Phillis Wheatley to tell George Washington that he should break away from the British. So, she’s showing her resistance to the crown through her writing.”

Others like James Armistead Lafayette offered intel as spies. Enslaved workers also played a role. “They were the ones who were creating the breadbasket. They were owned, but they did the work. Now that didn’t mean everybody did the work. There were there were small white farmers who did their own work,” she said.

“What I was learning is all of these people are patriots in different ways,” she said.

And, Cohen said, they were fighting two wars: the loyalist for freedom from enslavement that Britan offered for their service and the patriots’ freedom from British rule.

Cohen reached out to Travis Shaw, director of education at Piedmont Heritage Foundation, to learn more about local Black men who served in the military as soldiers. They found records of eight who fought for the colonies.

One featured in the exhibit was Daniel Coleman, who settled in Loudoun after

the war. Loudoun Court records show he continued to draw his war pension here until his death in 1860 at the age of 91.

For those fighting for the crown, Shaw points to a 1775 proclamation by Virginia’s last royal governor, John Murray, the fourth Earl of Dunmore, that promised freedom to any enslaved person or indentured servant who would join the British.

“We know that hundreds, if not thousands of men, women and children took that opportunity to try and attain their

continues on page 25

BLACK PATRIOTS

Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now

Artist Gertrude Evans holds one of her pieces on display as part of the Black Patriots and Loyalists of the American Revolution exhibit at the Thomas Balch Library.

BEST BETS

DANNY PAISLEY

Saturday, Feb. 15, 7 p.m. Lucketts Community Center luckettsbluegrass.org

The four-time IBMA Male Vocalist of the Year performs with The Southern Grass, with an opening show by banjo phenom Ettore Buzzini.

GET OUT

LIVE MUSIC

continued from page 23

TOMMY & KIM

6 to 9 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14

Bear Chase Brewing Company, 33665 Bear Chase Lane, Bluemont. bearchasebrew.com

NERYS APPLE

6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14

CRAFT, 3 W. Market St., Leesburg. $15. leesburgmovement.com

VICTOR TORRES

7 to 10 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14

Social House Kitchen & Tap, 42841 Creek View Plaza, Ashburn. socialhouseva.com

TEJAS SINGH

7 to 11 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14

Social House Kitchen & Tap, 25370 Eastern Marketplace Plaza, South Riding. socialhouseva.com

ANOTHER FINE MESS

9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Friday, Feb. 14

Spanky’s Shenanigans, 538 E. Market St., Leesburg. spankyspub.com

HUBIE G & THE LOST CORNER VAGABONDS

1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15 Vanish Farmwoods Brewery, 42245 Black Hops Lane, Lucketts. vanishbeer.com

ERIC SELBY

1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15 Creek’s Edge Winery, 41255 Annas Lane, Lovettsville. creeksedgewinery.com

ACOUSTIC AUTUMN

1 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15 Bear Chase Brewing Company, 33665 Bear Chase Lane, Bluemont. bearchasebrew.com

SHANE GAMBLE

1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15

8 Chains N. Winery, 38593 Daymont Lane, Waterford. 8chainsnorth.com

LENNY BURRIDGE

1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15

50 West Vineyards, 39060 Little River Turnpike, Middleburg. 50westvineyards.com

JIM STEELE

2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15

Two Twisted Posts Winery, 12944 Harpers Ferry Road, Hillsboro. twotwistedposts.com

CALLER N’ DOC

2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15

Quattro Goombas Brewery, 22860 James Monroe Highway, Aldie. quattrogoombas.com

MATT BURRIDGE

2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15

Old 690 Brewing Company, 15670 Ashbury Church Road, Hillsboro. old690.com

WAYNE SNOW

2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15

Notaviva Farm Brewery & Winery, 13274 Sagle Road, Hillsboro. notaviva.com

JASON MASI

2 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15

Doukenie Winery, 14727 Mountain Road, Hillsboro. doukeniewinery.com

KEN WENZEL

2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15

The Barns at Hamilton Station Vineyards, 16804 Hamilton Station Road, Hamilton. thebarnsathamiltonstation.com

LENNY STEVENS

2 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15

Old Farm Winery at Hartland, 23583 Fleetwood Road, Aldie. oldfarmwineryhartland.com

SCOTT KURT

2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15

Lark Brewing Co., 24205 James Monroe Highway, Aldie. larkbrewingco.com

EVAN ROSS

2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15

Firefly Cellars, 40325 Charles Town Pike, Hamilton. fireflycellars.com

BRIAN HARRIS

2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15

Breaux Vineyards, 36888 Breaux Vineyards Lane, Hillsboro. breauxvineyards.com

THE WARPED BAND

Sunday, Feb. 16, 7 p.m. (doors) Tally Ho Theater tallyhotheater.com

Celebrate with the hits of Blink-182, Good Charlotte, Fall Out Boy, Green Day, Panic! At The Disco, Paramore, Linkin Park and more.

PATTY REESE

3 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15

Flying Ace Farm, 40950 Flying Ace Lane, Lovettsville. flyingacefarm.com

MELISSA QUINN FOX

4 to 7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15

Lost Barrel Brewing, 36138 Little River Turnpike, Middleburg. lostbarrel.com

AS U WISH

5 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15

Vanish Farmwoods Brewery, 42245 Black Hops Lane, Lucketts. vanishbeer.com

ERIC CAMPBELL

6 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15

Bear Chase Brewing Company, 33665 Bear Chase Lane, Bluemont. bearchasebrew.com

DAVE NEMETZ

6 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15 Route 7 Brewing, 20051 Riverside Commens Plaza, Ashburn. route7brewing.com

JUST SOUTH OF 7

7 to 11 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15 Spanky’s Shenanigans, 538 E. Market St., Leesburg. spankyspub.com

ANNIE STOKES

7 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15

Social House Kitchen & Tap, 42841 Creek View Plaza, Ashburn. socialhouseva.com

CRAZY AFTER MIDNIGHT

7 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15

Crooked Run Fermentation, 22455 Davis Drive, Sterling. crookedrunfermentation.com

BAND CAPRICIO RECAP TOUR

7 to 11 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15

Michael & Son Sportsplex at Dulles, Dulles Sportsplex, Sterling. events.sulekha.com

DANNY PAISLEY

& THE SOUTHERN GRASS

7 to 9:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15

Lucketts Community Center, 42361 Lucketts Road, Lucketts. $22. luckettsbluegrass.org

THAT ARENA ROCK SHOW

8 to 11 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15

Tally Ho Theater, 19 W. Market St., Leesburg. $20. tallyhotheater.com

LAURA CASHMAN

8 to 11 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15

Monk’s BBQ, 251 N. 21st St., Purcellville. monksq.com

BRIAN JOHNSON

1:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 16

Sunset Hills Vineyard, 38295 Fremont Overlook Lane, Purcellville. sunsethillsvineyard.com

BRITTON NIESSLEIN

1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 16

Vanish Farmwoods Brewery, 42245 Black Hops Lane, Lucketts.

vanishbeer.com

LOUDOUN JAZZ JAM

1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 16

The Dell, 1602 Village Market Blvd. SE., Leesburg. atthedell.com

MATT DAVIS

1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 16

Lark Brewing Co., 24205 James Monroe Highway, Aldie.

larkbrewingco.com

BRITTANY FRAZER

1 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 16 Bear Chase Brewing Company, 33665 Bear Chase Lane, Bluemont. bearchasebrew.com

ANYWHERE USA

1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 16

Lost Barrel Brewing, 36138 Little River Turnpike, Middleburg. lostbarrel.com

NICK ANDREW STAVER

1 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 16

Casanel Vineyards and Winery, 17956 Canby Road, Leesburg. casanelvineyards.com

MATT MILLER

1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 16

50 West Vineyards, 39060 Little River Turnpike, Middleburg. 50westvineyards.com

JASON MASI

1:30 to 5:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 16

Bleu Frog Vineyards, 16413 James Monroe Highway, Leesburg.

MUSIC continues on page 25

Black Patriots

continued from page 23

freedom,” Shaw said. “Many of them, unfortunately, didn’t make it. Disease took a terrible toll on these people.”

Evans’ depiction of a uniformed soldier in the crown’s Ethiopian regiment comprised of formerly enslaved men is among her favorites in the exhibit.

Shaw noted that armies on both sides were racially integrated during the Revolutionary War, but that would not be the case again until the Truman Administration more than a century later.

Shaw said the many of the Black men joining the British forces carried arms, while others worked as the laborers and spies.

“We’ve found plenty of records of women and children working for the army. So, there’s probably at least 20,000 African Americans who find freedom through the British Army during the war, which is pretty impressive,” he said. Their service is recorded in “The Book of Negroes,” a ledger made as the British are evacuating New York City at the end of the war. “They refused to send these people back into slavery, and so they resettled them, and mostly in Canada, and they kept a record with their names, their age, description, how they’re related to one another, who their former master was.”

That record today is a gold mine for those trying to trace their ancestry, he said.

Evan’s works include a depiction of a Canadian settlement where many of those Black loyalist soldiers were given land after the war, although some later resettled in other British colonies in Africa and the Caribbean.

Cohen notes that even for the Black Americans who fought for their freedom during the Revolution, they didn’t receive full citizenship until the 1965 adoption of the Voting Rights Act.

“So that is definitely 200 years of fighting back and forth and back and forth—and now in 2025 you know fighting again,” she said.

The Black Patriots and Loyalists of the American Revolution exhibit will be on display at the Thomas Balch Library through March 31 during normal operating hours. Learn more at leesburgva.gov/ departments/thomas-balch-library.

On Sunday, Feb. 23 at 2 p.m. at Cascades Library, Cohen will present a talk on the Revolutionary War contributions of Black Americans including Crispus Attucks and James Armistead Lafayette. Learn more about local Virginia 250 activities at visitloudoun.org/loudoun250.

See more of Evans works at instagram.com/geegeeevans. n

GET OUT

LIVE MUSIC

continued from page 24

bleufrogvineyards.com

ANDY HAWK & TRAIN WRECK ENDINGS

2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 16

Quattro Goombas Brewery, 22860 James Monroe Highway, Aldie. quattrogoombas.com

CHRIS HANKS

2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 16 Old 690 Brewing Company, 15670 Ashbury Church Road, Hillsboro. old690.com

LENNY BURRIDGE

2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 16

The Barns at Hamilton Station Vineyards, 16804 Hamilton Station Road, Hamilton. thebarnsathamiltonstationvineyards.com

SCOTT KURT

2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 16

Harpers Ferry Brewing, 37412 Adventure Center Lane, Loudoun Heights. harpersferrybrewing.com

MATTHEW BURRIDGE

2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 16

Flying Ace Farm, 40950 Flying Ace Lane, Lovettsville. flyingacefarm.com

CHRIS COMPTON

2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 16

Breaux Vineyards, 36888 Breaux Vineyards Lane, Hillsboro. breauxvineyards.com

DUELING PIANOS

5 to 8 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 16

Bear Chase Brewing Company, 33665 Bear Chase Lane, Bluemont. bearchasebrew.com

THE WARPED BAND

8 to 11 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 16 Tally Ho Theater, 19 W. Market St., Leesburg. $15. tallyhotheater.com

GUARDIANES DEL AMOR

9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 16 Rio Cantina, 21800 Towncenter Plaza, Sterling. facebook.com/RioCantinaSterling

ROWDY

12 to 4 p.m. Monday, Feb. 17 Bear Chase Brewing Company, 33665 Bear Chase Lane, Bluemont. bearchasebrew.com

TED GARBER

1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 17 Sunset Hills Vineyard, 38295 Fremont Overlook Lane, Purcellville. sunsethillsvineyard.com

MELISSA OUINN FOX

1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 17

50 West Vineyards, 39060 Little River Turnpike, Middleburg.

50westvineyards.com

ARM THE TRACK

3 to 6:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 17

Vanish Farmwoods Brewery, 42245 Black Hops Lane, Lucketts. vanishbeer.com

ROBERTA LEA

6 to 10 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 19 Franklin Park Arts Center, 36441 Blueridge View Lane, Purcellville. franklinparkartscenter.org

JASON MASI

6 to 10 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 19 The Lost Fox, 20374 Exchange St., Ashburn. lostfoxhideaway.com

JUSTIN SUEDE

5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 20

Spanky’s Shenanigans, 538 E. Market St., Leesburg. spankyspub.com

SHANE GAMBLE

5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 20 Lark Brewing Co., 24205 James Monroe Highway, Aldie.

larkbrewingco.com

LOUDOUN JAZZ

7 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 20 Lansdowne Woods Clubhouse, 19375 Magnolia Grove Square, Lansdowne. lwva.org

HAPPENINGS

GALENTINE’S DAY CANDLE MAKING WORKSHOP

5:30 to 8:15 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 13 Kalero Vineyard, 36140 Charles Town Pike, Purcellville. $75. kalerovineyard.com

MIDDLEBURG’S WINTER WEEKEND SALE

10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Feb. 14-17 Downtown Middleburg. visitmiddleburgva.com

VALENTINE’S MURDER MYSTERY DINNER

6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14 Breaux Vineyards, 36888 Breaux Vineyards Lane, Hillsboro. $120. stagecoachtc.com

RAMADAN BAZAAR

12 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15

11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 16 The Great Xcape Loudoun, Dulles Town Center thegreatescape.com

HOTTEST VALENTINE NIGHT

BOLLYWOOD PARTY

9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 15

AllGoRhythms Gastro Bar, 21035 Dulles Town Circle, Sterling. gorhythms.com

LOUDOUN SYMPHONY’S

TCHAIKOVSKY WITH DAVID KIM

3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 16

Lightridge High School, 41025 Collaboration Drive, Aldie. $15-35 loudounsymphony.org

The Black Patriots and Loyalists of the American Revolution exhibit will be on display at the Thomas Balch Library through March 31 during normal operating hours.

Why I Love Loudoun: Donna Bohanon

BY VISIT LOUDOUN

Loudoun resident Donna Bohanon was on the Loudoun County Heritage Commission that successfully campaigned for the renaming of the Loudoun County Courthouse in honor of African American lawyer and Civil Rights leader Charles Hamilton Houston. She is a public historian, instructor and education associate and chairs the Black History Committee for the Friends of Thomas Balch Library.

FAVORITE PLACE TO EAT IN LOUDOUN?

I’m obsessed with the Grilled Lemongrass Chicken Skewer Salad at Tuscarora Mill in Leesburg and I like everything at Thai Deelish in Ashburn, especially the Duck Noodle Soup.

FAVORITE PLACE FOR A CRAFT BEVERAGE?

I recently had the spiced mulled wine at Fabbioli Cellars and in summer I like the wine slushies at Quattro Goombas Winery.

BEST HIDDEN GEM IN LOUDOUN?

I love history and learning local history

so the Thomas Balch Library. It’s a great place for events and research, especially if you’re learning about family history and genealogy.

WHAT’S A MUST-SEE PLACE FOR AN OUT-OF-TOWN VISITOR?

As a historian, I strongly recommend our numerous museums and historic sites throughout the county. Check out the Visit Loudoun website for the places that spark your interest.

FAVORITE EVENT IN LOUDOUN TO GO TO?

We have so many to choose from. Last year, I attended Tracy Hamlin’s Sweet Jazz Festival, and it’s my new favorite. I’ve also attended and enjoyed many events sponsored by all the historic organizations in Loudoun.

WHAT’S A FUN FACT TO SHARE ABOUT LOUDOUN?

After the Civil War, African Americans established up to 30 communities in the county. Places not just with homes but with churches, cemeteries, schools, business and social organizations- all to sustain themselves during Reconstruction

and Jim Crow.

WHO WAS CHARLES HAMILTON HOUSTON AND WHERE WAS HE FROM?

He was born in Washington, DC, and became Dean of Howard University Law School and the NAACP Legal Counsel. In 1933 he led the defense in the Commonwealth of Virginia vs. George Crawford at the Loudoun County Courthouse, a case that brought attention to all-white juries and the systematic exclusion of African American jurors. The story was national news. Two years later the Supreme Court ruled biased jury selections unconstitutional. One of the lawyers on his team was a young Thurgood Marshall who went on to become the first Black justice on the United States Supreme Court. WHEN WAS THE CAMPAIGN TO RENAME THE COURTHOUSE FOR HIM LAUNCHED?

The Loudoun Country Heritage Commission established a subcommittee in 2017 to review ways to commemorate the full history of the courthouse grounds. Recommendations, which included nominating it for National Historic Landmark recognition and renaming it, were brought to the Board of County Supervisors. (Both

have been achieved.)

LO VEL d n

FEBRUARY IS BLACK HISTORY MONTH. HOW SHOULD LOUDOUN RESIDENTS COMMEMORATE THE HISTORY HERE?

Many ways! Visit the Black History Committee’s art exhibit “Black Patriots and Loyalists in the American Revolution” in the Mercer Room of the Thomas Balch Library through February and March. Also look online for Black History events at Oatlands Historic House & Gardens.

WHAT OTHER PROJECTS HONORING BLACK HISTORY SHOULD LOUDOUN RESIDENTS BE AWARE OF?

Loudoun’s African American community has always honored its history. One early example is the annual Emancipation Day celebrations in September that started in the late 1800’s and continue to this day.  One of the Black History Committee’s recent projects was a partnership with members of the village of St. Louis, the former (village of) Willard and George Mason University to research the history and capture the stories of the people who established those two historic African American communities.

It is our way to continue honoring Black history in Loudoun. n

Loudoun Now/File Photo

Donna Bohanon speaks during the Sept. 9, 2024, dedication of the Charles Hamilton Houston courthouse in Leesburg.

Brewers Association Celebrates Loudoun’s Best

The Loudoun County Brewers Association announced the winners of its inaugural Beer Awards competition, putting the spotlight in the industry’s top talent and tastes.

Flying Ace Farm took home the top prize for Best of Loudoun Beer for its Bloody Butcher Cream Ale, which was a silver medal winner in the light ale category. The Lovettsville-area brewery also won a silver medal for its Dopplebock in the dark lager category.

Chris Jacques, formerly of Quattro Goombas and now at Chilly Hollow Brewing Company in Berryville, was named Brewer of the Year.

Honor Brewing Company near Aldie was recognized for its charitable work. The Community Service Champion award winner raised more than $150,000 for area nonprofits.

Lark Brewing Company’s Kat Huff was named General Manager of the Year, an award that celebrates outstanding leadership and management in the brewery industry.

Loudoun Brewing Company was presented the Best Event of the Year award for its work during the Leesburg Flower and Garden Festival.

Purcellville’s Adroit Theory won for Best Label Design, selected for its creative and visually stunning label designs.

Cat Greenway from Eleven Eleven Brewing Company in Purcellville was selected at Beertender of the Year.

Other winners in the beer competition were:

Light Lager: Gold-Eleven Eleven Brewing Company for Narcissist, Helles Lager; Silver-Honor Brewing for Classic, Light Lager; Honorable MentionCrooked Run Fermentation for Alora, Italian Style Pilsner

Wheat Beer: Gold-Bear Chase Brewing Co for Dinosaur Land Dark

Wheat, German Dunkelweizen; Silver-Barnhouse Brewery for Angry Buck Weizenbock

Light Ale Category: Gold-Route 7 Brewing for Algonkian Pale Ale, Pale Ale; Silver-Flying Ace Farm for Bloody Butcher Cream Ale, Light Ale; Honorable Mention-Lost Barrel for No.11, Kolsch.

Old World & International: Gold-Dynasty Brewing for El Supremo Pilsner, Dry Hopped Pilsner; Silver-Bear Chase Brewing Co for Smokehouse Lager, Grodziskie; Honorable Mention-Crooked Run Fermentation for Inverness, Wee Heavy Fruited Beer: Gold-Eleven Eleven Brewing Company for Resting Peach Face, Habanero Peach IPA; Silver-Waters End Brewery for Cranberry Imperial Sour, Fruited Sour; Honorable Mention-Crooked Run Fermentation for Sticky Rice, Fruited Berliner Weisse IPA: Gold-Lost Barrel Brewing for Stratazacca, Double IPA; Silver-Harvest Gap Brewery for Scotty J Smash IPA; Honorable Mention-Bluemont Station Brewery for Gone Fishin’, Grapefruit West Coast IPA

Hazy IPA: Gold-Lost Barrel Brewing for Hazy IPA, Hazy India Pale Ale; Silver-Route 7 Brewing for Lucky 7, Hazy India Pale Ale; Honorable MentionHonor Brewing for Hazy, Hazy India Pale Ale

Dark Lager: Gold-Bear Chase Brewing for Honey Badger, Amber Lager; Silver-Flying Ace for Dopplebock, Dark Lager; Honorable Mention-Bluemont Station for Midnight Train, Schwartzbier Dark Ale: Gold-Crooked Run Fermentation for Approaching Black, Black Porter; Silver: Barnhouse Brewing for Honey Hole, Honey Brown Ale; Honorable Mention: Old 690 Brewing Company for Outlandish, Dark ale with coffee and vanilla n

PUBLISHER’S NOTICE

We are pledged to the letter and spirit of Virginia’s policy for achieving equal housing opportunity throughout the Commonwealth. We encourage and support advertising and marketing programs in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, familial status or handicap.

All real estate advertised herein is subject to Virginia’s fair housing law which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, familial status or handicap or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination.”

This newspaper will not knowingly accept advertising for real estate that violates the fair housing law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. For more information or to file a housing complaint call the Virginia Fair Housing Office at (804) 367-9753. fairhousing@dpor.virginia.gov www.fairhousing.vipnet.org

Legal Notices

TOWN OF HAMILTON, VIRGINIA

NOTICE OF PROPOSED PERSONAL PROPERTY TAX RATES AND MOTOR VEHICLE LICENSE FEE FOR FY26

PPursuant to Code of Virginia of 1950, as amended, §§15.2-107, -1427, 46.2-752 and 58.1-3000,3506.1 and -3524, the Hamilton Town Council will hold a public hearing at the Hamilton Town Office, 53 East Colonial Highway, Hamilton, Virginia, on February 25, 2025, beginning at 7:00 pm, for the purpose of receiving comment and taking action on the proposed personal property tax rates ordinances and proposed amendment to Hamilton Code Chapter 26, Article II, Section 26-20 to allow the reduction of the Motor Vehicle License Tax/Fee to $0.00 for Fiscal Year 2026.

FY2025 personal property tax rate:

$1.10 per $100 of assessed value; 38% Personal Property Tax Relief (“PPTR”) for qualified vehicles

FY2026 proposed personal property tax rate:

$1.25 per $100 of assessed value; increase in rate; 36% PPTR

FY2026 proposed personal property tax rate for elderly/disabled: $0.01 per $100 of assessed value.

Proposed amendment to Chapter 26, Article II, Section 26-20 to allow the Town Council to set the amount of Motor Vehicle License Tax/Fee and setting the FY2026 fee to $0.00.

Copies of the proposed ordinances, amendment and related documents are available for review on the Town website and at the Town Office by appointment, Monday through Friday, 8 am through 4 pm. All interested persons are invited to participate in the public hearing by following the instructions on the Town website, hamiltonva.gov, emailing comments to Sherri.Jackson@hamiltonva.gov, or attending in person.

2/13 & 2/20/25

TOWN OF LOVETTSVILLE

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

LVZA 2024-0001, AMEND ZONING ORDINANCE

ARTICLE 42-VIII, GENERAL REGULATIONS, DIVISION 42-VIII-2, ADDITIONAL STANDARDS, TO ADD SECTION 42-312, SPECIAL EVENTS

Pursuant to Sections 15.2-1117, 15.2-2253, 15.2-2204 and 15.2-2286 of the Code of Virginia, 1950 as amended, the LOVETTSVILLE TOWN COUNCIL will hold a public hearing at its meeting on Thursday, February 20, 2025, at 6:30 pm in the Town Council Chambers, 6 E. Pennsylvania Avenue, Lovettsville, Virginia, to consider an amendment to Chapter 42, Article VIII-2 of the Zoning Ordinance. Members of the public may access and participate in this meeting electronically.

The purpose of the amendment is to consider adding Section 42-312, Special Events, to the Zoning Ordinance. Special Events are defined as private, outdoor commercial or festive activities that involve fireworks, temporary or inflatable structures, large tents, or food preparation. Proposed standards would limit the number of events, hours of operation each day; require permits from health and safety agencies; and require public notification of the event.

All people desiring to speak will be given an opportunity to do so at this meeting. Written comments regarding this item can be submitted to clerk@lovettsvilleva.gov by 3:00PM on the day of the meeting.

The proposed zoning amendment and meeting links are available for review on the Town website at: https://www.lovettsvilleva.gov/government/planning-commission You may also request a copy be sent to you via email by contacting John Merrithew, Planning Director at (540) 822-5788 between the hours of 8:30 am and 4:30 pm weekdays, holidays excepted. In the event the meeting is postponed, the public hearing will be readvertised and convened at the next regularly scheduled meeting at the same time and place.

2/6 & 2/13/25

PLAT-2024-0350 Arcola FarmsPhase 1

Legal Notices

Ms. Angela Rassas of Toll Mid-Atlantic LP Company, Inc. of Reston, VA is requesting preliminary/ record plat of subdivision approval to subdivide approximately fifty-five (55.07) acres into forty-six (46) residential lots, three (3) open space lots, and accompanying right-of-way dedication and easement creation. The property is bounded by Ryan Road (Route 772) to the north, east of the intersection of Ryan Road (Route 772) and Evergreen Mills Road (Route 621). The properties are zoned Residential – 4 (R4) under the provisions of the Loudoun County Zoning Ordinance. The properties are more particularly described as Parcel Identification Numbers 199-25-1135-000, 199-25-3525-000, 119-25-6408-000, 119-15-7187-000, 119-15-5059-000, 242-10-8536-000, and 242-10-2937-000 in the Ashburn and Little River Election Districts.

Additional information regarding this application may be found on the LandMARC System http:// www.loudoun.gov/LandMARC and searching for PLAT-2024-0350. Please forward any comments or questions to the project manager, Eric Blankenship at Eric.Blankenship@loudoun.gov or you may mail them to the Department of Building and Development 1 Harrison Street, SE, 2nd Floor, Leesburg, Virginia by February 13, 2025. The Department of Building and Development will take action on the above application(s) in accordance with the requirements for preliminary subdivisions outlined in Section 1243.08 of the Land Subdivision and Development Ordinance (LSDO).

1/9, 1/16, 1/23, 1/30, 2/6 & 2/13/25

PUBLIC NOTICE

The LOUDOUN COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF BUILDING AND DEVELOPMENT has accepted application for preliminary plat of subdivision for the following project.

PLAT-2025-0016

Goose Creek Village West - Phase III

Mr. John Paltineanu, of Goose Creek Commercial LLC, of Ashburn, VA is requesting preliminary plat of subdivision approval to subdivide approximately thirty-four (34.1) acres into one hundred and one (101) lots, one (1) open space parcel, and associated easements. The property is located north of Sycolin Road (Route 625), north of Dulles Greenway (Route 267), and west of Belmont Ridge Road (Route 659). The property is zoned R-16 (Townhouse/Multifamily Residential), under the provisions of the Loudoun County Zoning Ordinance. The property is more particularly described as 153-17-2472000 in the Ashburn Election District.

Additional information regarding this application may be found on the LandMARC System http://www.loudoun.gov/LandMARC and searching for PLAT-2025-0016. Please forward any comments or questions to the project manager, Samantha Lockwood at Samantha.Lockwood@Loudoun.gov or you may mail them to The Department of Building and Development 1 Harrison Street, SE, 2nd Floor, Leesburg, Virginia by March 20, 2025. The Department of Building and Development will take action on the above application(s) in accordance with the requirements for preliminary subdivisions outlined in Section 1243.08 of the Land Subdivision and Development Ordinance (LSDO).

2/13, 2/20, 2/27, 3/6, 3/13 & 3/20/25

PUBLIC NOTICE

The LOUDOUN COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF BUILDING AND DEVELOPMENT has accepted application for preliminary plat of subdivision for the following project.

PLAT-2024-0338

Kincora Village Center

Mr. Joshua Reynolds, of Gateway Engineering, of Ashburn, VA is requesting preliminary/record plat of subdivision approval to subdivide approximately two-hundred and eleven (211.89) acres into seven (7) lots, and associated easements. The property is located south of Leesburg Pike (Route 7), west of Sully Road (Route 28), north of Gloucester Parkway (Route 2150), and east of Loudoun County Parkway (Route 607). The property is zoned PD-MUB (Planned Development - Mixed Use Business), under the provisions of the Loudoun County Zoning Ordinance. The property is more particularly described as 040-29-7132-000, 040-18-9517-000, 041-19-4573-000 in the Broad Run District.

Additional information regarding this application may be found on the LandMARC System http:// www.loudoun.gov/LandMARC and searching for PLAT-2024-0338. Please forward any comments or questions to the project manager, Samantha Swift at Samantha.Swift@loudoun.gov or you may mail them to The Department of Building and Development 1 Harrison Street, SE, 2nd Floor, Leesburg, Virginia by March 13, 2025. The Department of Building and Development will take action on the above application(s) in accordance with the requirements for preliminary subdivisions outlined in Section 1243.08 of the Land Subdivision and Development Ordinance (LSDO).

2/6, 2/13, 2/20, 2/27, 3/6 & 3/13/25

ORDER OF PUBLICATION

COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA VA. CODE § 8.01-316

Case No.: JJ039727

Loudoun Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court

Commonwealth of Virginia, in re Amaris Victoria Quintanilla Loudoun County Department of Family Services v.

Unknown Father

The object of this suit is to hold a second permanency planning hearing and review of foster care plan with goal of adoption, pursuant to Virginia Code §§ 16.1-282.1 and 16.1-281 for Amaris Victoria Quintanilla; and hold a hearing on the Petition for Termination of Parental Rights of Unknown Father, pursuant to Virginia Code §16.1-283 for Amaris Victoria Quintanilla. Unknown Father is hereby notified that failure to appear on the hereinafter noticed date and time may result in the entry of an Order approving a permanency goal of adoption as well as the termination of their residual parental rights with respect to Amaris Victoria Quintanilla. Unknown Father is hereby further notified that if their residual parental rights are terminated, they will no longer have any legal rights with respect to said minor child, including, but not limited to, the right to visit Amaris Victoria Quintanilla; any authority with respect to the care and supervision of Amaris Victoria Quintanilla; or the right to make health related decisions or determine the religious affiliation of Amaris Victoria Quintanilla. Further, Unknown Father, will have no legal and/or financial obligations with respect to Amaris Victoria Quintanilla, and the Department of Family Services of Loudoun County, Virginia may be granted the authority to place Amaris Victoria Quintanilla for adoption and consent to the adoption of Amaris Victoria Quintanilla

It is ORDERED that the defendant(s) Unknown Father appear at the above-named Court and protect his or her interests on or before March 11, 2025 at 10:00 a.m.

2/13, 2/20, 2/27 & 3/6/25

2025 TAX EXEMPTION INFORMATION

Pursuant to §58.1-3604 of the Code of Virginia, the Loudoun County Commissioner of the Revenue has determined that the 2025 aggregate assessed value of all real property exempted from taxation under §§58.1-3607 and 58.1-3608, and Articles 3, 4 and 5 of Chapter 36 of Title 58.1 of the Code of Virginia is $9,782,056,680. This aggregate assessed value represents 5.43% of all real property assessed in the County.

The total reduction in tax revenues resulting from such exemptions is $78,745,556 based on the maximum proposed tax rate of $0.805 per $100 of assessed value.

Robert S. Wertz, Jr. Commissioner of the Revenue Loudoun County

Government Center Office

1 Harrison St. SE, 1st Floor, Leesburg

Sterling Location 46000 Center Oak Plaza, Sterling

MAILING ADDRESS: PO Box 8000, Leesburg, VA 20177-9804 Phone: 703-777-0260

E-mail: realestate@loudoun.gov Website: www.loudoun.gov/cor 2/13, 2/20, 2/26 & 3/6/25

PUBLIC NOTICE

TOWN OF PURCELLVILLE

Business, Professional and Occupational License tax for 2025 is due on March 3, 2025. Failure to receive a renewal application does not relieve penalty and interest charges.

Elizabeth B. Krens, Treasurer 2/13 & 2/20/25

ORDER OF PUBLICATION

COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA VA. CODE § 8.01-316

Case No.: JJ049567

Loudoun Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court

ORDER OF PUBLICATION

COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA VA. CODE § 8.01-316

Case No.: CL25-77

Loudoun County Circuit Court

Commonwealth of Virginia, in re Lisa Gerben v. Alemayehu Mamo

The object of this suit is to divorce.

It is ORDERED that the defendant(s) Alemayehu Mamo appear at the above-named Court and protect his or her interests on or before March 7, 2025 at 2:00 p.m.

1/23, 1/30, 2/6 & 2/13/25

Commonwealth of Virginia, in re Daniel Merlo Arita

Loudoun County Department of Family Services v.

Unknown Father

The object of this suit is to hold an adjudicatory hearing pursuant to Virginia Code § 16.1-252 for Daniel Merlo Arita; and hold a dispositional hearing for review of initial Foster Care Plan pursuant to Virginia Code §§ 16.1-278.2 and 16.1-281 for Daniel Merlo Arita

It is ORDERED that the defendant(s) Unknown Father appear at the above-named Court and protect his or her interests on or before February 13, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. (adjudication) and March 14, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. (dispositional).

2/6, 2/13, 2/20 & 2/27/25

Legal Notices

TOWN OF LOVETTSVILLE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

LVZA 2024-0002, AMEND ZONING

ORDINANCE

ARTICLE

42-XI,

SIGN REGULATIONS

Pursuant to Section 15.2-2204 of the Code of Virginia, 1950 as amended, notice is hereby given that the LOVETTSVILLE TOWN COUNCIL will hold a public hearing at its meeting on Thursday, February 20, 2025, at 6:30 pm, in the Town Council Chambers, 6 E. Pennsylvania Avenue, Lovettsville, Virginia to consider amendments to Article 42-XI of the Zoning Ordinance. Members of the public may access and participate in this meeting electronically.

The purpose of the amendment is to modify sign standards in residential and commercial zoning districts. Proposed changes include new standards for murals and art displays, revisions to government sign definitions, revised standards for wall, monument, and pole signs, modifying the types of permanent signs in certain zoning districts, expanding the list of prohibited signs, and modifying temporary sign standards.

All people desiring to speak will be given an opportunity to do so at this meeting. Written comments regarding this item can be submitted to clerk@lovettsvilleva.gov by 3:00PM on the day of the meeting.

The proposed zoning amendment and meeting links are available for review on the Town website https://www.lovettsvilleva.gov/government/planning-commission. You may also request a copy be sent to you via email by contacting John Merrithew, Planning Director at (540) 822-5788 between the hours of 8:30 am and 4:30 pm weekdays, holidays excepted. In the event the meeting is postponed, the public hearing will be readvertised and convened at the next regularly scheduled meeting at the same time and place.

2/6 & 2/13/25

TOWN OF LEESBURG NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

SETTING TAX RATES ON PERSONAL PROPERTY (SECTION 20-22), VEHICLE LICENSE FEE (SECTION 32-84), MOTOR VEHICLE TAX REDUCTION (SECTION 20-25), AND PERSONAL PROPERTY TAX RELIEF (SECTION 20-30) FOR TAX YEAR 2025, AND AMENDING LEESBURG TOWN CODE APPENDIX B – FEE SCHEDULE

In accordance with the Code of Virginia of 1950, as amended, §§ 15.2-1427, 46.2-752, 58.1-2606, 58.1-3000, 58.1-3007, 58.1-3503, 58.1-3506, 58.1-3506.1 through 58.1-3506.7, 58.1-3515 and 58.13524, the Leesburg Town Council will hold a public hearing on:

Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at 7:00 P.M. in the Council Chambers of Town Hall, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, VA.

at which time the public shall have the right to present oral and written testimony on the following tax rates and proposed amendments to the Leesburg Town Code:

• The Town Manager proposes tax rates for personal property (per $100.00 of assessed value) for tax year 2025:

• Aircraft = $0.001

• Computer equipment in data centers = $0.75

• Motor vehicles of eligible elderly and disabled (Town Code Sec. 20-25) = $0.50

• All other tangible personal property (including motor vehicles) = $1.00

• Bank capital = $0.80 per $100.00 of the net capital of banks located in the Town

• Aircraft, automobiles, and trucks of public service corporations are proposed to be taxed at the rates shown above; all other tangible personal property of public service corporations is excluded from the rates shown above and will continue to be taxed at the Town’s real estate tax rate per Va. Code § 58.1-2606.

• The Town Manager proposes personal property tax relief for tax year 2025 under the provisions of the Virginia Personal Property Tax Relief Act and Leesburg Town Code sec. 20-30, as follows: a personal property tax relief rate of 34% shall be applied solely to that portion of the value of each qualifying vehicle that is not in excess of $20,000.

• The Town Manager proposes a vehicle license fee for tax year 2025 of $25.00 per vehicle.

Copies of the proposed ordinance are available for public examination prior to the public hearing in the office of the Clerk of Council at Town Hall, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, VA, during normal business hours. For more information about the ordinance, please contact Owen A. Snyder, Assistant Town Manager/Chief Financial Officer at 703-771-2717.

Persons requiring reasonable accommodations are requested to contact Eileen Boeing, Clerk of Council at 703-771-2733, three days in advance of the public hearing. For TTY/TTD services, use the Virginia Relay Center by dialing 711.

2/6 & 2/13/25

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE TOWN OF PURCELLVILLE

The Board of Zoning Appeals of the Town of Purcellville will hold a public hearing at Town Hall located at 221 South Nursery Avenue, Purcellville, Virginia on Thursday, February 20th, 2025 at 6:00 PM for the purpose of receiving comments on, considering, and possibly voting on the following item:

A Variance regarding the property located at 501 East G St., Purcellville, Virginia. The property is further identified by Parcel Identification Number 488-19-5840.

PLAN-25-10: A Variance application submitted by property owner, Arthur Ripalda, for property located within the R-2 Zoning District. The applicant seeks approval of a variance of the front setback from the required 40 feet, to the street’s right-of-way centerline, to a proposed front setback of 26.5 feet to the street’s right-of-way centerline. The variance is requested to accommodate a recently constructed front porch.

Additional information regarding this application is available for review at the Purcellville Town Hall at 221 South Nursery Avenue, Purcellville, Virginia during regular business hours, holidays excepted. At this public hearing, all persons desiring to present their views concerning this matter will be heard. In addition, all persons have the option of sending an email to the Planning Manager, Boyd Lawrence, at blawrence@purcellvilleva.gov, with written comments or questions concerning the proposed Variance. Emails sent by 4:00PM the day of the Public Hearing will be received for the public hearing, but may not necessarily be read aloud into the record at the public hearing.

At this public hearing, an opportunity will be provided for all persons desiring to present their views on this matter. Persons requiring special accommodations should contact the Town Clerk at 540-338-7421, three days in advance of the meeting.

2/6 & 2/13/25

FIND OUT ABOUT THE COUNTY’S REAL ESTATE AND VEHICLE TAX RELIEF PROGRAMS FOR RESIDENTS WHO ARE AGED 65 YEARS OR OLDER OR DISABLED

View Online

Spanish translation available

Ver en línea Traducción al español disponible

Commissioner of the Revenue, Robert S. Wertz, Jr., encourages eligible property owners who are aged 65 years or older, OR are totally and permanently disabled, to learn about Loudoun’s property tax relief programs. Applicants that meet qualifying criteria of the program, including income and net worth limits, may be relieved of up to 100% of real estate taxes on their primary dwelling and lot, up to 3 acres. In addition, eligible applicants may also have their vehicle taxes reduced.

To learn more about this tax relief program, please plan on attending one of the free sessions that are being offered throughout the county. No appointment or RSVP is required.

Cascades Library English Potomac Falls Tuesday, February 25 10:30 AM

Rust Library English Leesburg Friday,

solo en español

If you require a reasonable accommodation for any type of disability or need language assistance in order to participate in tax relief, please contact Tax Exemptions & Deferrals, email trcor@loudoun.gov or call 703-737-8557 (TTY-711). Three business days’ notice is requested.

2/6, 2/13, 2/20, 2/27 & 3/6/25

Legal Notices

PUBLIC INVITED TO PROVIDE COMMENT ON A COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT SUBSTANTIAL AMENDMENT TO THE FY2024 -2025 ANNUAL ACTION PLAN

On April 14, 2021, the Board of Supervisors (Board) approved the County’s Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Fiscal Year (FY) 2021-2025 Five-Year Consolidated Plan (Consolidated Plan) which requires the submission of an Annual Action Plan (AAP) for each year. On April 10, 2024, the Board approved FY 2025 AAP.

Pursuant to Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, 42 United States Code §5301, et seq., and U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) regulations at 24 Code of Federal Regulations Subtitle A §91.105(c), the Board shall consider a Substantial Amendment to the FY 2025 AAP.

The proposed Substantial Amendment includes changes to the following components of the FY 2025 AAP:

High Priority Activities

• Projects that promote energy efficiency and conservation through rehabilitation or retrofitting of existing buildings (24 CFR 570.201(c)); and

• Public Facilities (24 CFR 570.201(c).

Unexpended and unallocated CDBG funds to be reprogrammed to the following FY 2025 eligible high priority activities.

Organization CDBG Citation National Objective Funded Amount

Loudoun County Government 24 CFR 570.201(c) Upgrade 1st & 2nd Floor Public Restrooms and Corridors at 102 Heritage Way, NE, Leesburg, VA 20176

Low-Moderate Limited Clientele (LMC) $914,218

The public comment period is open through March 12, 2025. To submit comments:

• Online: Complete the online form at loudoun.gov/cdbg.

• Mail: Loudoun County Department of Housing and Community Development, P.O. Box 7000, Leesburg, Virginia 20177, Attn: CDBG Program Manager

Copies of the Substantial Amendment to the FY 2024-2025 AAP are available for review from February 6, 2025, through March 10, 2025, at the following locations from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday:

1. Loudoun County Government Center, Information Desk, 1st Floor, 1 Harrison St. SE, Leesburg

2. Loudoun County Department of Housing and Community Development, 106 Catoctin Circle, SE, Leesburg

3. Information Desks at all branches of the Loudoun County Public Library System. To find a branch, visit library.loudoun.gov

The Substantial Amendment will also be available online at www.loudoun.gov/cdbg through March 12, 2025. 2/6 & 2/13/25

PUBLIC NOTICE

Notice is hereby given that Loudoun County Sanitation Authority Works (VMRC #20241773) is requesting a permit from the Virginia Marine Resources Commission to construct a 56-foot long by 18-foot wide clear span bridge over a 43-foot wide section of Broad Run Stream adjacent to Arcola Road as part of the UBRI Sanitary Sewer Manhole Replacements Project in Loudoun County.

You may provide comments on this application (VMRC #2024-1773) at https://webapps.mrc. virginia.gov/public/habitat/comments/ We will accept comments by the USPS provided they are received within l5 days of this notice to: Marine Resources Commission, Habitat Management Division, 380 Fenwick Road, Bldg. 96, Hampton, VA 23651. 2/13/25

TOWN OF LOVETTSVILLE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON THE PROPOSED BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEAR JULY 1, 2025 - JUNE 30, 2026

Pursuant to Sections 15.2-2501 and 15.2-2506 of the 1950 Code of Virginia, as amended, the LOVETTSVILLE TOWN COUNCIL will hold a public hearing on Thursday, February 20, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. in the Town Council Chamber, 6 E. Pennsylvania Avenue, Lovettsville, Virginia, at which time the public shall have the right to provide written and oral comments on the proposed budget for fiscal year July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026.

This budget is prepared for informative and fiscal planning purposes only. Such preparation, publication, and approval shall not be deemed to be an appropriation. No money shall be paid out or become available to be paid out for any contemplated expenditure unless and until there has first been made an annual, semiannual, quarterly, or monthly appropriation for such contemplated expenditure.

SUMMARY OF EXPENDITURES FY 2025 FY 2026 Increase ADOPTED PROPOSED (Decrease)

($4,517)

SUMMARY OF REVENUES FY 2025 FY 2026 Increase ADOPTED PROPOSED (Decrease)

The current real estate tax rate levy was $0.1475 per $100 of assessed value.  The proposed real estate tax rate levy is $0.146 per $100 of assessed value.

All persons desiring to speak will be given an opportunity to do so at this meeting. Written comments regarding this item can be submitted at the Town’s Office or to clerk@lovettsvilleva.gov by 3:00pm on the day of the meeting during which the hearing will be held. Members of the public may access and participate in this hearing virtually by visiting https://www.lovettsvilleva.gov/town-hall-videos/. Copies of the proposed budget are available on the Town website and are available for review at the Town Hall between the hours of 8:30am and 4:30pm weekdays or by special appointment, holidays excepted. Call 540-822-5788 for more information or visit www.lovettsvilleva.gov. In the event the meeting is cancelled, the public hearing will be convened at the next regularly scheduled meeting at the same time and place.

2/6 & 2/13/25

TOWN OF LEESBURG NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Legal Notices

TO CONSIDER ACQUISITION BY CONDEMNATION AND TO AUTHORIZE PAYMENT OF JUST COMPENSATION FOR REAL PROPERTY LOCATED IN THE TOWN OF LEESBURG, LOUDOUN COUNTY, VIRGINIA, FOR THE PURPOSE OF CONSTRUCTION OF A RECONFIGURED PORTION OF BALLS BLUFF ROAD IN CONNECTION WITH THE VETERANS PARK AT BALLS BLUFF PROJECT

FEE ACQUISITION AND TEMPORARY CONSTRUCTION EASEMENTS ON AND ACROSS REAL PROPERTY DESIGNATED AS:

PIN 186-10-6639-000, TAX MAP NO. /40/A/6/////E/

PIN 186-10-4443-000, TAX MAP NO. /40/A/6/////A/

The LEESBURG TOWN COUNCIL will hold a public hearing on

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2025 at 7:00 p.m.

in the Council Chambers at Town Hall, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia, 20176, to consider the following Resolution:

A RESOLUTION TO AUTHORIZE ACQUISITION BY CONDEMNATION OF FEE SIMPLE OWNERSHIP AND A TEMPORARY EASEMENT ON AND ACROSS REAL PROPERTY FOR THE PUBLIC PURPOSE OF CONSTRUCTION OF A RECONFIGURED PORTION OF BALLS BLUFF ROAD IN CONNECTION WITH THE VETERANS PARK AT BALLS BLUFF PROJECT; TO ENTER UPON THE PARCEL TO BE ACQUIRED IN FEE AND THE TEMPORARY EASEMENT AREA; TO BEGIN AND CONTINUE CONSTRUCTION BEFORE THE CONCLUSION OF CONDEMNATION PROCEEDINGS PURSUANT TO VIRGINIA CODE SECTIONS 15.2-1901 THROUGH 15.2-1904 AND CHAPTER 3 OF TITLE 25.1 (§§ 25.1-300 et seq.); AND TO FURTHER AUTHORIZE PAYMENT OF JUST COMPENSATION TO THE OWNERS OF THE FOLLOWING PROPERTY:

Fee acquisition of real property identified as Loudoun County Property Identification Number (PIN) 186-10-6639-000, Tax Map No. /40/A/6/////E/; and

A temporary construction easement on and across real property identified as PIN 186-10-4443-000, Tax Map No. /40/A/6/////A/.

A copy of the proposed Resolution and additional information is available from the Town Clerk, Leesburg Town Hall, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia, 20176 during normal business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.), or by contacting Eileen Boeing, Clerk of Council at 703-731-2733.

At this hearing, all persons desiring to express their views concerning these matters will be heard. Persons requiring special accommodations should contact the Clerk of Council at 703-771-2733, three days in advance of the meeting. For TTY/TDD service, use the Virginia Relay Center by dialing 711.

2/6 & 2/13/25

ABC LICENSE

Jw’s Fish and Biscuits LLC, trading as Jw’s Fish and Biscuits, 101A Executive DR Ste 101, Sterling, VA 20166. The above establishment is applying to the VIRGINIA ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE CONTROL (ABC) AUTHORITY for a Restaurant, Wine, Beer, Mixed Beverages, Consumed On and Off Premises.

Note: Objections to the issuance of this license must be submitted to ABC no later than 30 days from the publishing date of the first of two required newspaper legal notices.

Objections should be registered at www.abc.virginia.gov or 800-552-3200.

2/13 & 2/20/24

TOWN OF LEESBURG

NOTICE OF PLANNING COMMISSION PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER REZONING APPLICATION

TLZM-2018-0005 GREENWAY MANOR

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, FEBRUARY 20, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. in the Town Council Chambers, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia 20176, to consider Rezoning application TLZM-2018-0005 Greenway Manor.

The Subject Property consists of two parcels totaling approximately 8.856 acres and are further identified as Loudoun County Property Identification Numbers (PIN) 273-39-1389 and 273-49-2205. The Subject Properties are zoned B-1 (Community [Downtown] Business) and are also subject to the H-1, Overlay, Old and Historic District.

Rezoning Application TLZM-2018-0005 is a request by The Stanfield Company, LLC for a zoning Concept Plan and Proffer Amendment to amend the previously approved concept plan and proffers for TLZM-2008-0005 to allow the following:

Up to 101,306 square feet of existing buildings, building additions, and new construction for a Commercial Inn with up to 40 rooms, Office, Indoor Theater, Place of Worship, School of General Education (48,740 square feet), Eating Establishment Without Drive-In Facility, and Retail uses.

The Subject Property is located in an area described by the Legacy Leesburg Town Plan (Town Plan) as “Areas to Strengthen (and Protect)” on the Area Based Land Use Initiatives Map (Town Plan page 72). The property is further designated as “Special Use” on the Character Areas for Preservation and Change Map (Town Plan page 76). There is no recommended density for nonresidential uses or a Floor Area Ratio (F.A.R.) for uses associated with Areas to Strengthen (and Protect). The proposed maximum commercial density on the Subject Property is approximately 0.263 F.A.R.

The following modifications are sought with this application:Modification of Town of Leesburg Zoning Ordinance (TLZO) Section TLZO SEC. 12.8.5 - reduction of “BUFFER YARD A” ….

1. Modification of Town of Leesburg Zoning Ordinance (TLZO) Section TLZO

– reduction of “BUFFER YARD C”

2. Modification of Town of Leesburg Zoning Ordinance (TLZO) Section TLZO SEC.

– reduction of “BUFFER YARD F”

3. Modification of Town of Leesburg Zoning Ordinance (TLZO) Section TLZO SEC. 12.8.8

– reduction of dumpster setback.

4. Modification of Town of Leesburg Design and Construction Standards Manual (DCSM) DCSM SEC. 5 - 323

– reduction of Creek Valley Buffer

5. Modification of Town of Leesburg Zoning Ordinance (TLZO) Section TLZO SEC. 6.3.3 – front yard setback

Additional information and copies of this application are available at the Leesburg 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.

2/6 & 2/13/25

ATTENTION LOUDOUN COUNTY | COMMERCIAL PROPERTY OWNERS

INCOME AND EXPENSE SURVEYS DUE MARCH 3

To facilitate the establishment of accurate real estate assessments for tax year 2026, as authorized by the Code of Virginia § 58.13294, I am requesting that owners of incomeproducing real estate provide a certified statement of income and expenses for calendar year 2024. This information, which shall be kept confidential in accordance with the Code of Virginia § 58.1-3, will be utilized to determine fair market values for tax assessment purposes. The survey forms are available online at loudoun.gov/income-expense and should be returned to my office by email or regular mail by March 3, 2025.

Commercial property owners are encouraged to review and verify our record of property characteristics online at loudoun.gov/ parceldatabase to assist us in ensuring fair and accurate assessments. For information or filing assistance, please visit loudoun.gov/cor or contact my office at commercialre@loudoun. gov or 703-777-0260.

Robert S. Wertz, Jr. Commissioner of the Revenue Loudoun County

Leesburg Office

1 Harrison Street SE First Floor

Sterling Office

Loudoun Tech Center 46000 Center Oak Plaza

MAILING ADDRESS: PO Box 8000, MSC 32 Leesburg, VA 20177-9804

Phone: 703-777-0260

Email: commercialre@loudoun.gov

Website: loudoun.gov/cor

1/30 & 2/13/25

Legal Notices

LOUDOUN COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

NOTICE OF IMPOUNDMENT OF ABANDONED VEHICLE

This notice is to inform the owner and any person having a security interest in their right to reclaim the motor vehicle herein described within 15 days after the date of storage charges resulting from placing the vehicle in custody, and the failure of the owner or persons having security interests to exercise their right to reclaim the vehicle within the time provided shall be deemed a waiver by the owner, and all persons having security interests of all right, title and interest in the vehicle, and consent to the sale of the abandoned motor vehicle at a public auction.

This notice shall also advise the owner of record of his or her right to contest the determination by the Sheriff that the motor vehicle was “abandoned,” as provided in Chapter 630.08 of the Loudoun County Ordinance, by requesting a hearing before the County Administrator in writing. Such written request for a hearing must be made within 15 days of the notice. YEAR MAKE MODEL VIN

2009 NISSAN ALTIMA 1N4AL21E29N408815 BLAIR’S TOWING 703-661-8200

2013 CHEVROLET EXPRESS GB6G5BG4D1154759 ROAD RUNNER 703-450-7555

2003 TOYOTA CAMRY 4T1BF30K83U558018 BATTLEFIELD TOWIN 703-378-0059

2005 TOYOTA SIENNA 5TDZA23C05S236397 LCSO IMPOUND LOT 571-367-8400

2010 CHEVROLET SILVERADO 1GCSKSF31AZ168731 LCSO IMPOUND LOT 571-367-8400

2011 TOYOTA SIENNA 5TDKK3DC5BS102337 LCSO IMPOUND LOT 571-367-8400

n/a EXMARK ZERO TURN SN/922059 LCSO IMPOUND LOT 571-367-8400

2/13 & 2/20/25

NOTICE OF PUBLIC AUCTION

TOWN OF LEESBURG

PUBLIC AUCTION OF ABANDONED AIRCRAFT

DESCRIPTION: In accordance with the Code of Virginia § 5.1-2.25. Abandoned or derelict aircraft; disposal, the Town of Leesburg is offering the following aircraft for public auction:

1973 Cessna C-172M / Serial no. 17261579 / FAA Registration Number N92417

LOCATION: Leesburg Executive Airport, 1001 Sycolin Road SE, Leesburg, Virginia. See auction site for information regarding viewing the aircraft and other questions.

PUBLIC AUCTION WEBSITE: Interested bidders may bid on the item online at http://www.publicsurplus.com.

TERMS: Bidders must accept the Terms and Conditions for Derelict Aircraft as described on the auction website.

AUCTION END DATE: The auction end date is February 26, 2025 at 1:00 p.m.. The auction may be extended at the discretion of the Town of Leesburg.

2/13/25

NOTICE OF PUBLIC AUCTION

TOWN OF LEESBURG

PUBLIC AUCTION OF ABANDONED AIRCRAFT

DESCRIPTION: In accordance with the Code of Virginia § 5.1-2.25. Abandoned or derelict aircraft; disposal, the Town of Leesburg is offering the following aircraft for public auction:

1969 Piper PA-28R-200 / Serial no. 28R35635/ FAA Registration Number N3074R

LOCATION: Leesburg Executive Airport, 1001 Sycolin Road SE, Leesburg, Virginia. See auction site for information regarding viewing the aircraft and other questions.

PUBLIC AUCTION WEBSITE: Interested bidders may bid on the item online at http://www.publicsurplus.com.

TERMS: Bidders must accept the Terms and Conditions for Derelict Aircraft as described on the auction website.

AUCTION END DATE: The auction end date is February 26, 2025 at 1:00 p.m.. The auction may be extended at the discretion of the Town of Leesburg.

2/13/25

TOWN OF LEESBURG

NOTICE OF TOWN COUNCIL PUBLIC HEARING

TO CONSIDER MINOR SPECIAL EXCEPTION APPLICATION TLSPEX2024-0015 VETERINARY EMERGENCY GROUP (VEG)

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, FEBRUARY 25, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. in the Town Council Chambers, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia 20176, to consider Minor Special Exception application TLSPEX2024-0015, Veterinary Emergency Group (VEG).

The subject of the application is an existing commercial space addressed as 516 Fort Evans Road, Leesburg, VA 20175, within the Fort Evans II shopping center. The property is zoned B-3, Community Retail/Commercial District and is further described as Loudoun County Parcel Identification Number (PIN) 148-46-5270.

Minor Special Exception Application TLSPEX2024-0015 is a request by Veterinary Emergency Group (VEG) to allow a 5,000 square foot veterinary hospital pursuant to Town of Leesburg Zoning Ordinance (TLZO) Section 6.5.2, Use Regulations. The Fort Evans Plaza II shopping center was approved in 2005 via Special Exception (TLSE-2004-0013, Resolution No. 2005-75).

The Subject Property is located in what the Town Plan describes as an “Area to Transform or Evolve” on the Area Based Land Use Initiatives Map (Town Plan pg. 72). The property is further designated within the Town Plan as a “Retail Center” on the Character Areas for Preservation and Change Map (Town Plan pg. 76).

Additional information and copies of this application are available at the Department of Community Development located on the second floor of 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, Senior Planning Project Manager 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.

2/6 & 2/13/25

PUBLIC NOTICE

INVITATION FOR BID (IFB)

LOWER SYCOLIN SEWAGE PUMPING STATION UPGRADES

The Town of Leesburg will accept sealed bids electronically via the Commonwealth’s eprocurement website (www.eva.virginia.gov), until 2:00 p.m. on Monday, March 10, 2025, for the following:

IFB NO. 520823-FY25-25

LOWER SYCOLIN SEWAGE PUMPING STATION UPGRADES

Work includes the partial rehabilitation of the Lower Sycolin Sewage Pumping Station to meet expected flow demand and includes the refurbishment of three existing pumps and installation of a new, fourth pump for redundancy, with check valves, piping, and other improvements, and all incidentals related thereto.

For additional information, visit: http://www.leesburgva.gov/bidboard 2/13/25

LOUDOUN COUNTY WILL BE ACCEPTING SEALED COMPETITIVE PROPOSALS FOR:

CORE DENTAL SERVICES, RFP No 672849 until prior to 4:00 p.m., local “Atomic Time”, March 12, 2025.

CORE FREE MEDICAL SERVICES, RFP No. 672848 until prior to 4:00 p.m., local “Atomic Time”, March 10, 2025.

FREE REPRESENTATIVE PAYEE

SERVICES, RFP No. 672858 until prior to 4:00 p.m., local “Atomic Time”, March 14, 2025.

SPECIALIZED PROGRAMS AND CAMP INSTRUCTORS, RFP No. 668834 until prior to 4:00 p.m., local “Atomic Time”, March 10, 2025.

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

2/13/25

Legal Notices

ATTENTION LOUDOUN COUNTY BUSINESS OWNERS

MARCH 3 DEADLINE FOR 2025 TAX REPORTING

Notification of 2025 business tax filing requirements has been mailed to each business and selfemployed person on our tax rolls. The notification contains the account number and owner name necessary to report both business receipts and business equipment online.

BUSINESS LICENSE RENEWAL DUE MARCH 3

Business owners who possess a 2024 Loudoun County Business License must obtain a 2025 license by reporting their calendar year 2024 gross receipts and paying the applicable license tax or fee at loudoun.gov/efile. The annual FILING and PAYMENT DEADLINE is midnight, March 3. After reporting the business’ receipts online, filers will be provided with a link to pay online as well. Owners of new businesses must obtain a license within 30 days of beginning business. Owners of businesses located in one of Loudoun’s incorporated towns should contact the respective town regarding business licensing requirements.

BUSINESS EQUIPMENT REPORTING DUE MARCH 3

Owners of business equipment that was located in Loudoun County on January 1, 2025, must report it for taxation at loudoun.gov/efile. The reporting of original cost, year of purchase, location, and item description for all business equipment in the county is due by midnight, March 3, 2025. Resulting semi-annual tax bills for this equipment must be paid to the Treasurer by the May 5 and October 6 deadlines. The reporting of business equipment is made to the Commissioner of the Revenue for all businesses in the County whether within or outside of an incorporated town.

The tax filing deadline for business license and business personal property reporting is usually March 1, but has been moved to the next business day for 2025 because that date falls on a weekend.

Business owners subject to local business taxes must file annually, even if there is no tax due or property to declare. Mailing address changes and notification of business closure should also be reported at loudoun.gov/efile. Most transactions with our office can be done online. For more information or filing assistance, please visit loudoun.gov/cor or contact my office at businesstax@ loudoun.gov or 703-777-0260. You may also write or stop by my office weekdays, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. So that we may better serve you, taxpayers are encouraged to email or call prior to visiting the office.

Robert S. Wertz, Jr. Commissioner of the Revenue Loudoun County Loudoun Tech Center Office 46000 Center Oak Plaza, Sterling Government Center Office 1 Harrison St. SE, 1st Floor, Leesburg

MAILING ADDRESS: PO Box 8000, Leesburg, VA 20177-9804

Phone: 703-777-0260, Option 2 E-mail: businesstax@loudoun.gov Website: www.loudoun.gov/cor

PUBLIC NOTICE

2/13, 2/20 & 2/27/25

The LOUDOUN COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF BUILDING AND DEVELOPMENT has accepted application for preliminary plat of subdivision for the following project.

PLAT-2024-0365

Tillett’s View Phase 2

Mr. Christopher Spahr, of Pulte Home Company LLC, of Fairfax, VA is requesting Preliminary Plat of subdivision approval to subdivide approximately 18.60 Acres, into one hundred fifty (150) single family attached lots with accompanying right-of-way, civic space, and associated easements. The property is located north of Waxpool Road (Route 900), west of Claiborne Parkway (Route 901), south of Truro Parish Drive (Route 2119), and east of Belmont Ridge Road (Route 659). The property is zoned R-16 Townhouse and Multifamily Residential, under the provisions of the Loudoun County Zoning Ordinance. The property is more particularly described as MCPI #156-26-4485-000 and MCPI #156-36-3643-000 in the Broad Run Election District.

Additional information regarding this application may be found on the LandMARC System http:// www.loudoun.gov/LandMARC and searching for PLAT-2024-0365. Please forward any comments or questions to the project manager, Vaughn Bynoe at vaughn.bynoe@loudoun.gov or you may mail them to The Department of Building and Development 1 Harrison Street, SE, 2nd Floor, Leesburg, Virginia by February 13, 2025. The Department of Building and Development will take action on the above application(s) in accordance with the requirements for preliminary subdivisions outlined in Section 1243.08 of the Land Subdivision and Development Ordinance (LSDO).

1/9, 1/16, 1/23, 1/30, & 2/13/25

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

The LOUDOUN COUNTY BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS will hold a public hearing in the DULLES MEETING ROOM, on the first floor of the Government Center, 1 Harrison Street, S.E., Leesburg, Virginia, on Thursday, February 27, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. to consider the following:

LEGI-2024-0060

CASCADES OVERLOOK SIGN PLAN: ZMOD-2024-0018 Sign Development Plan

Starlite Media, LLC has submitted an application for a Sign Development Plan for a property approximately 13.22-acres in size and is located at the southeast intersection of Bartholomew Fair Drive (Route 1792) and Benedict Drive (Route 1010) in the Sterling Election District (the Subject Property). The Subject Property is zoned Town Center (TC) and more particularly described as PIN’s 020-38-8593-000. Pursuant to Section 10.11.03 of the Loudoun County Zoning Ordinance, the applicant seeks approval to amend a previously approved Sign Development Plan (SIDP-2015-0003) to modify the sign regulations of Table 8.04-1 and Table 8.05-1 of the Zoning Ordinance to the following: replacing the 4 pedestrian map directory ground signs with digital sign boards and adding 2 new digital wall signs.

BOZA-2024-0004

Variance

39422 Buchannon Gap Road, Aldie and PIN:363-25-3720-000

Saravanan Ranganathan and Sridevi Saravanan have submitted an application for a variance for a properties approximately 6.883 acres in size (total) and are located on the north side of Buchanon Gap Road (Route 764), approximately 0.15 miles east of the intersection of Buchanon Gap Road and New Mountain Road (Route 631) in the Little River Election District. The properties are more particularly described as 39422 Buchanon Gap Road, Aldie, Virginia PIN: 363-25-7549-000 Tax Map # /98////////26A and PIN:363-25-3720-000 and Tax Map # /98////////25/. The variance seeks to permit a deviation from the following provisions of the Loudoun County Zoning Ordinance from Table 2.04.03.02-1.3 – A-3 Zoning District Dimensional Standards, Depth to Width Ratio (max.), which requires a maximum depth-towidth ratio of 5:1, and Table 2.04.03.02-1.2 – A-3 Zoning District Dimensional Standards, Lot Width (min.), which requires a minimum lot width of 200 feet for lots fronting on public roads, in order to create a lot with a depth to width ratio of 7.84:1 and a width of 122 feet. The purpose is to allow for a boundary line adjustment between the respective properties. The subject properties are zoned A-3 (Agricultural Residential - 3) under the Loudoun County Zoning Ordinance.

Copies of the applications and related documents listed above may be examined at the Loudoun County Government Center, Information Desk, First Floor, 1 Harrison Street, S.E., Leesburg, Virginia, from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday or call 703777-0246 (option 5), to request hard copies or electronic copies. County staff reports will be made available Friday, February 21, 2025. Documents may also be reviewed electronically at loudoun.gov/landmarc. Members of the public desiring to do so may appear and present their views regarding these matters. Members of the public who wish to provide public input, whether electronically or in person, are encouraged to sign up in advance. If you wish to sign up in advance of the hearing, please call the Department of Planning and Zoning at 703-777-0246 no later than 12:00 PM on the day of the public hearing. Speakers may also sign up at the hearing. Written comments may be sent to the Loudoun County Board of Zoning Appeals, P.O. Box 7000, Leesburg, Virginia 20177, or by e-mail to stephanie.capps@loudoun.gov. Members of the public may also submit comments electronically at loudoun.gov/landapplications. If you require a reasonable accommodation for any type of disability or need language assistance in order to participate in the public hearing, please contact the Department of Planning & Zoning at 703-777-0246 (option 5) or, TTY-711. Three business days advance notice is requested.

Nan M. Joseph Forbes, Chair Loudoun

County Board of Zoning Appeals

2/13 & 2/20/25

Legal Notices

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING COUNTY OF LOUDOUN, VIRGINIA

Proposed Budget for the Fiscal Year July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026

Proposed Tax Rates for Tax Year 2025

Pursuant to Section 15.2-2506 and Section 58.1-3007 of the Code of Virginia, the County of Loudoun, Virginia (the “County”), gives notice of its proposed budget for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2025, and ending June 30, 2026 (the FY 2026 Proposed Budget); and the proposed tax rates on real and personal property for Tax Year 2025, beginning January 1, 2025, and ending December 31, 2025. The budget is prepared and published for informative and fiscal planning purposes only. The inclusion in the budget of any item or items does not constitute any obligation or commitment on the part of the Board of Supervisors of the County to appropriate any funds for that item or purpose. There is no allocation or designation of any funds of the County for any purpose until there has been an appropriation for that purpose by the Board of Supervisors.

The estimated local contribution for the school budget is $1,389,449,364. This is the local tax revenue proposed for the Loudoun County Public Schools to fund its Fiscal Year 2026 budget for public schools, as compared to the estimated minimum contribution required by state law in the amount of $508,733,248.

Two public hearings on the proposed budget and the proposed tax rates will be held by the Board of Supervisors in the Board of Supervisors’ Meeting Room on Thursday, February 27, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. Any member of the public may address the Board of Supervisors on these matters; however, each member of the public wishing to address the Board may speak at only one of the sessions. An additional public input session will be held by the Board of Supervisors in the Board of Supervisors’ Meeting Room on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at 9:00 a.m.

The Board of Supervisors’ Meeting Room is located in the Loudoun County Government Center, 1 Harrison Street, SE, Leesburg, Virginia. Copies of the FY 2026 Proposed Budget may be examined at the Loudoun County Government Center, Information Desk, 1st Floor, 1 Harrison Street, S.E., Leesburg, Virginia, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. The FY 2026 Proposed Budget is also available online at www.loudoun.gov/budget.

Board of Supervisors’ public hearings are televised on Comcast Government Channel 23 and Verizon FiOS Channel 40. Public hearings also are livestreamed at loudoun.gov/meetings.

Members of the public desiring to do so may appear and present their views regarding the FY 2026 Proposed Budget. Members of the public who wish to provide public input, whether electronically or in person, are encouraged to sign-up in advance; however, speakers may sign-up during the public hearing. If you wish to sign-up in advance, call the Office of the County Administrator at (703) 777-0200. For this public hearing, advanced sign-up will begin at 8:30 a.m. on February 13, 2025, and will close at 12:00 p.m. on February 27, 2025, for the two sessions held on February 27, 2025. For the public input session on February 22, 2025, advanced sign-ups begin at 8:30 a.m. on February 13, 2025, and will close at 5:00 p.m. on February 21, 2025. Written comments are welcomed at any time and may be sent to the Board of Supervisors, P.O. Box 7000, Leesburg, Virginia 20177 or by e-mail to loudounbudget@loudoun.gov. If submitting written comments, information, or materials at the hearing, 10 copies should be provided for distribution to the Board members and for the Clerk’s records.

The following is a summary of the total revenues and expenditures for each appropriated fund:

Legal Notices

and Public Service Corporation Real Estate & Tangible Personal Property in the district, except automobiles, trucks & aircraft (in addition to the general rate applicable to all real estate in the County and the rate for any other service district where the property is located, if applicable)

Real Estate in the Loudoun Gateway-Airport Station Service District; and Public Service Corporation Real Estate & Tangible Personal Property in the district, except automobiles, trucks & aircraft (in addition to the general rate applicable to all real estate in the County and the rate for any other service district where the property is located, if applicable)

Real Estate in the Ashburn Station Service District; and Public Service Corporation Real Estate & Tangible Personal Property in the district, except automobiles, trucks & aircraft (in addition to the general rate applicable to all real estate in the County and the rate for any other service district where the property is located, if applicable)

Tangible Personal Property (to include all categories of tangible personal property unless the category and rate is set out separately in this notice), including automobiles and trucks of Public Service Corporations (Va. Code § 58.1-2606 (B))

Tangible Personal Property Used in a Research and Development Business (Va. Code § 58.1-3506 (A)(7)); and Machinery and Tools (Va. Code §§ 58.1-3507 et seq.)

Tangible Personal Property – Motor Vehicles of Eligible Elderly and Disabled (Va. Code § 58.1-3506.1; Chapter 873 of the Codified Ordinances of Loudoun County)

Tangible Personal Property – Eligible Motor Vehicle of a Qualified Permanently Disabled Veteran (Va. Code § 58.1-3506(A)(19))

Tangible Personal Property – Aircraft and Flight Simulators (Va. Code § 58.1-3506 (A) (5)), including aircraft of Public Service Corporations (Va. Code § 58.1-2606 (B))

Tangible Personal Property – Heavy Construction Machinery (Va. Code § 58.1-3506 (A)(8)) $4.000

Tangible Personal Property – Motor Vehicles specially equipped to provide transportation for physically handicapped individuals (Va. Code §

3506 (A)(14))

Tangible Personal Property – Eligible Motor Vehicles of Fire and Rescue Volunteers and Auxiliary Members and Auxiliary Deputy Sheriffs (Va. Code § 58.1-3506 (A)(15), (16) & (32))

Tangible Personal Property – Satellite Manufacturing, Testing and Operating Equipment within Route 28 Highway Transportation Improvement District (Va. Code § 58.1-3506 (A) (21))

(Va. Code § 58.1-3506 (A)(24))

Hearing assistance is available for meetings in the Board of Supervisors’ Meeting Room. If you require any type of reasonable accommodation as a result of a physical, sensory, or mental disability to participate in this meeting, please contact the Office of the County Administrator at 703-777-0200/TTY-711. At least one business day of advance notice is requested; some accommodations may require more than one day of notice. FM Assistive Listening System is available at the meetings.

BY ORDER OF: PHYLLIS RANDALL, CHAIR LOUDOUN COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS

Legal Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE

The LOUDOUN COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF BUILDING AND DEVELOPMENT has accepted application for preliminary plat of subdivision for the following project.

PLAT-2024-0372

Defender Drive, Phase 1

Mr. Stephens Collins, of Defenders Inc., of Washington, District of Columbia is requesting preliminary record plat of subdivision approval to subdivide approximately twelve (12.373) acres into forty-eight (48) lots, one (1) open space parcel, private streets, street dedication and associated easements. The property is located south of Little River Turnpike (Route 50) and east of the intersection of Defender Drive (Route 1278) and South Riding Boulevard (Route 2201). The property is zoned R-16 (Townhouse/Multifamily Residential 16) and PD-H4 (Planned Development-Housing 4) under the provisions of the Loudoun County Zoning Ordinance. The property is more particularly described as 128-48-4437-000, 128-48-1771-000, and 127-18-4380-000 in the Dulles Election District.

Additional information regarding this application may be found on the LandMARC System http://www.loudoun.gov/LandMARC and searching for PLAT-2024-0372. Please forward any comments or questions to the project manager, Hilary Russo at Hilary.Russo@loudoun.gov or you may mail them to The Department of Building and Development 1 Harrison Street, SE, 2nd Floor, Leesburg, Virginia by February 27, 2025. The Department of Building and Development will take action on the above application(s) in accordance with the requirements for preliminary subdivisions outlined in Section 1243.08 of the Land Subdivision and Development Ordinance (LSDO).

1/23, 1/30, 2/6, 2/13, 2/20 & 2/27/25

PUBLIC NOTICE

The LOUDOUN COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF BUILDING AND DEVELOPMENT has accepted application for preliminary plat of subdivision for the following project.

PLAT-2024-0373

Defender Drive, Phase 2

Mr. Stephens Collins, of Defenders Inc., of Washington, District of Columbia is requesting preliminary record plat of subdivision approval to subdivide approximately twelve (11.924) acres into thirty-two (32) lots, one (1) open space parcel, private streets, street dedication and associated easements. The property is located south of Little River Turnpike (Route 50) and east of the intersection of Defender Drive (Route 1278) and South Riding Boulevard (Route 2201). The property is zoned R-16 (Townhouse/Multifamily Residential 16) and PD-H4 (Planned Development-Housing 4) under the provisions of the Loudoun County Zoning Ordinance. The property is more particularly described as 128-48-4437-000 and 128-48-8353-000 in the Dulles Election District.

Additional information regarding this application may be found on the LandMARC System http://www.loudoun.gov/LandMARCand searching for PLAT-2024-0373. Please forward any comments or questions to the project manager, Suzanna Brady at Suzanna.brady@loudoun.gov or you may mailthem to The Department of Building and Development 1 Harrison Street, SE, 2nd Floor, Leesburg, Virginia by February 27, 2025. The Department of Building and Development will take action on the above application(s) in accordance with the requirements for preliminary subdivisions outlined in Section 1243.08 of the Land Subdivision and Development Ordinance (LSDO).

1/23, 1/30, 2/6, 2/13, 2/20 & 2/27/25

PUBLIC NOTICE

The LOUDOUN COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF BUILDING AND DEVELOPMENT has accepted application for preliminary plat of subdivision for the following project.

PLAT-2024-0374

Defender Drive, Phase 3

Mr. Stephen Collins, Vice President, of Defenders, Inc. of Washington DC is requesting preliminary/ record plat of subdivision approval to subdivide approximately four (4.03) acres into 47 (47) lots, one (1) open space parcel, and associated easements. The property is located south of Little River Turnpike (Route 50), west of Poland Road, east of South Riding Boulevard, and north of Tall Cedars Parkway. The property is zoned R16 (Townhouse/Multifamily Residential), under the provisions of the Loudoun County Zoning Ordinance. The property is more particularly described as 128-48-4437 and 128-488353 in the Dulles Election District.

Additional information regarding this application may be found on the LandMARC System http://www. loudoun.gov/LandMARC and searching for PLAT-2024-0374 Please forward any comments or questions to the project manager, Samantha Swift at Samantha.swift@loudoun.gov or you may mail them to The Department of Building and Development 1 Harrison Street, SE, 2nd Floor, Leesburg, Virginia by February 27, 2025. The Department of Building and Development will take action on the above application(s) in accordance with the requirements for preliminary subdivisions outlined in Section 1243.08 of the Land Subdivision and Development Ordinance (LSDO).

1/23, 1/30, 2/6, 2/13, 2/20 & 2/27/25

PUBLIC NOTICE

The LOUDOUN COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF BUILDING AND DEVELOPMENT has accepted application for preliminary plat of subdivision for the following project.

PLAT-2024-0375

Defender Drive, Phase 4

Mr. Stephens Collins, of Defenders Inc., of Washington, District of Columbia is requesting preliminary record plat of subdivision approval to subdivide approximately three (3.035) acres into thirty-three (33) lots, one (1) open space parcel, private streets, and associated easements. The property is located south of Little River Turnpike (Route 50) west of the intersection of Defender Drive (Route 1278) and Helmsdale Terrace, and northwest of Valley Vista Lane. The property is zoned R-16 (Townhouse/Multifamily Residential 16) under the provisions of the Loudoun County Zoning Ordinance. The property is more particularly described as a portion of parcels 128-48-4437-000, 128-48-8353-000, 128-489540, and 127-48-9920-000 in the Dulles Election District.

Additional information regarding this application may be found on the LandMARC System http://www. loudoun.gov/LandMARC and searching for PLAT-2024-0375. Please forward any comments or questions to the project manager, Vaughn Bynoe at Vaughn.Bynoe@loudoun.gov or you may mail them to The Department of Building and Development 1 Harrison Street, SE, 2nd Floor, Leesburg, Virginia by February 27, 2025. The Department of Building and Development will take action on the above application(s) in accordance with the requirements for preliminary subdivisions outlined in Section 1243.08 of the Land Subdivision and Development Ordinance (LSDO).

1/23, 1/30, 2/6, 2/13, 2/20 & 2/27/25

ONLINE.

Loco Service Providers

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

20+Chase repossessions will be offered to the public sale monthly on Wednesdays. 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.

Town of Leesburg Employment Opportunities

Please visit www.leesburgva.gov/jobs for more information and to apply online. Resumes may be submitted as supplemental only. EOE/ADA.

Regular Full-Time Positions

To review Ida Lee (Parks & Recreation) flexible part-time positions, please visit www.leesburgva.gov/jobs. Most positions will be filled at or near the minimum of the range. Dependent on qualifications.

All Town vacancies may be viewed on Comcast Cable Channel 67 and Verizon FiOS Channel 35.

OFFICE COORDINATOR

Loudoun

DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR

Published by Loudoun Community Media

15 N. King St., Suite 101 Leesburg, VA, 20176

703-770-9723

NORMAN K. STYER

Publisher and Editor nstyer@loudounnow.org

KURT ASCHERMANN Development Director kaschermann@loudounnow.org

EDITORIAL

AMBER LUCAS Reporter alucas@loudounnow.org

HANNA PAMPALONI Reporter hpampaloni@loudounnow.org

WILLIAM TIMME Reporter wtimme@loudounnow.org

ADVERTISING

SUSAN STYER Advertising Manager sstyer@loudounnow.org

TONYA HARDING Account Executive tharding@loudounnow.org

VICKY MASHAW Account Executive vmashaw@loudounnow.org

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.

Opinion

Another Free Ride

The Board of Supervisors this month is slated to complete its overhaul of the county’s bus system with the establishment of a new micro-transit pilot program.

The $2 million initiative will introduce free, on-demand, point-to-point transports in part of Leesburg, operating similarly to services like Uber or Lyft. If it goes well, the project is expected to expand to Sterling next year.

That project comes after supervisors dropped the charges for the county’s fixed-route and paratransit buses in hopes of boosting ridership. They also added new bus routes with the goal of importing workers from surrounding counties.

Stay True

Editor:

Democrats in Loudoun County rallied at a town hall at the Government Center in Leesburg last week to express their opposition to the breakneck speed with which Republicans are rooting out corruption and reigning in rogue government agencies.

In recent years, the phrase “Make America Great Again” has become a rallying cry for those who believe in the principles of American exceptionalism, economic freedom, national sovereignty, and world peace. Yet, rather than joining in efforts to strengthen our country, Democrats have consistently resisted policies that would secure our borders, revitalize our economy, and restore traditional values.

One of the most contentious issues has been border security. Democrats have fiercely opposed these measures, instead advocating for sanctuary cities and lenient immigration policies that strain local resources and shield violent criminal aliens from police.

Their resistance doesn’t stop at border security. Democrats continue to push for higher taxes, burdensome regulations, and a Green New Deal that threatens to cripple American industries. Rather than empowering businesses and workers, their agenda prioritizes costly climate initiatives that cater to elite environmental activists

The reduction in the number of long-haul routes to take commuters downtown—a measure intended to right-size the fleet to better match post-pandemic ridership—comes just as more federal workers will be returning to their offices.

In short, over the past several months, the county board has invested heavily to provide a multi-faceted transit system that would be the envy of any urban community. Everyone loves a free ride.

Or do they?

While money is no object in the service expansion, it remains to be seen if Loudoun will embrace the opportunity to become a transit-oriented community.

LETTERS to the Editor

while leaving blue-collar workers behind. Moreover, the cultural divide has only widened as Democrats increasingly reject the values that have long defined our nation—faith, family, and freedom. The rise of cancel culture, identity politics, and radical social policies is eroding the moral fabric of our society.

Republicans believe in the right to free speech, the sanctity of life, and the preservation of parental rights in education. Yet, Democrats often dismiss these principles as outdated or intolerant.

Education, in particular, has become a battleground. Conservative parents are rightfully concerned about their children's indoctrination with divisive ideologies rather than the basics of reading, writing, and arithmetic. Democrats, however, have aligned themselves with powerful teachers' unions that resist school choice and accountability. The result is a public education system that fails to prepare our children to compete on a global stage.

The resistance to Making America Great Again is rooted in a fundamental difference in vision. Republicans see America as a beacon of freedom and opportunity, a place where hard work and personal responsibility are rewarded. Democrats, on the other hand, often view America through a lens of systemic flaws that need to be corrected through government intervention and social engineering.

While conservatives champion

personal choice, whether it’s in healthcare, education, or how we navigate public health crises, Democrats have shown a troubling tendency to impose mandates and restrictions that erode individual liberties.

Loudoun County Democrats will continue to resist efforts to restore America’s greatness, but the administration is resolute. The stakes are too high to surrender to the forces of division and mediocrity. By staying true to the principles that have guided this nation for centuries, Republicans will overcome this resistance and build a brighter, stronger, and more united America.

— Frank McDonough, Lovettsville Guardrails

Editor:

In the Feb. 6 issue, Ben Lenhart wrote an excellent article entitled "Constitutional Guardrails and the Second Trump Term." He correctly provided the historical foundation for principles intended to constrain executive abuse.

At the time of the article, the courts had begun to issue injunctive relief against Trump's executive orders. Since then, the number of lawsuits has increased to over 40 cases in response to additional executive orders and actions. Many

LETTERS continues on page 41

Loudoun Now is mailed weekly to homes in Leesburg, western Loudoun and Ashburn,

READERS’

more cases will, rightfully so, be filed in response to Trump's abuse of the Constitution and the law of the land.

Where Mr. Lenhart does not go in his article is the failure of safeguards intended in the Constitution and our legal history. First, it was intended that Congress act as a check on executive abuse of power. Unfortunately, the Republicans in Congress have abrogated their Constitutional duty and are sitting idly by as Trump destroys the government instead of consulting with Congress for approval and action, as should be done.

Second, our system of government relies on voluntary compliance with the law and the Constitution. Even Nixon complied in the end. We are seeing Trump Administration officials and even some members of Congress now suggest that the courts can be ignored if Trump wants to do so.

Where would this lead us? It would effectively mean the end of the Constitution as we know it. Totalitarianism is the inevitable result. Trump and his supporters are already talking about extending his time in office past his current term. They seem to be setting stage for the end of democracy. Are these conclusions an overwrought reaction? I think not. The abuses we see originate from Trump and his team, not the opposing party. It is the Republican Congress that is failing to resist Trump's violations of the Constitution, not

LETTERS to the Editor

fulfilling their oaths to the Constitution. It is Trump and his supporters who are suggesting they might ignore rulings of the courts. It is they who are talking about extending Trump's time in office past that allowed under the Constitution.

It is my view that the Constitution should be more than a dusty historical document with no more validity. We must require all to comply with the Constitution and the legitimate laws of the United States. Without this compliance, we are a failed nation.

It took Hitler about 53 days after his election to take the role of a dictator. At the rate we are going, Trump will beat that mile mark. And most Americans, and the institutions that are supposed to act as a check on executive abuse, will have passively allowed it to happen. I really don't think that is what Americans want or voted for.

— Russell Clark, Leesburg

Stand Up

Editor:

I never imagined I would ever have to write this letter. People voted for Donald Trump on the promise of lower costs and a safer America leading to a massive win in the popular vote for Republicans. This feat hadn’t been achieved since 2004.

On Nov. 12, 2024, President Trump announced the creation of a new government agency that sought to

continued from page 41

“dismantle government bureaucracy, slash excess regulations, cut wasteful expenditures, and restructure Federal Agencies.”

It was a little concerning that the world's richest person and a multimillionaire were going to run this organization. Were these people driven by a passion for public service or was there something else that was driving their enthusiasm for this change?

They quickly started floating the idea of sending all federal workers back to work five days a week. This seemed ironic as an organization that is supposed to increase efficiency was driving a recommendation that was increasingly in conflict with numerous studies that have found that telework and remote work have little effect on productivity. This has not stopped Musk from going after telework, labeling it as a “COVID era privilege,” even though the concept has existed since the passage of the Telework Enhancement Act in 2010.

Elon Musk has also claimed that by setting aside the federal workers who guard our buildings, only 1% of federal workers show up full-time to their offices. This contradicts an official Office of Management and Budget survey published in August 2024, which said that out of the 46.4% of federal employees who are telework-eligible, 61.2% of their hours were spent working in person, excluding the federal employees who worked fully remote, which makes up only

10% of the teleworker eligible force. Musk seems to be blowing this issue in ways to essentially create an obvious hardship for employees to retain their job and with federal workers receiving communication like those received by Twitter employees, basically asking them to quit. How inept and childish. Rather than trying to solve problems in our government, he is going after the federal workers and who are potentially in line to be fired.

Musk also called telework “morally wrong” in the past, demonstrating his hatred of telework from the start. President Trump clarified that he supports Musk’s actions, claiming that if people do not return to office, they will be fired. There seems to be little to no resistance in Congress as well.

Like any other American, I want a president who listens and understands everyone’s point of view.

Many federal workers are afraid to speak out for fear of getting fired. The livelihoods of hundreds of thousands of workers are at stake; prudent action can be taken if people and organizations stand up for the federal workers who tirelessly serve this nation daily and our elected officials listen to the needs of all, including the millions of federal workers doing their jobs to serve this country.

Only time will tell what will happen next. God Bless America.

— Krish Gupta, Leesburg

Data Centers

continued from page 1

expected to take a final vote on phase one next week, she said.

“Phase two, we’ll look at additional use specific standards, performance standards, on site renewable energy, battery storage, and potentially looking at setbacks, especially near residential and some other noise issues,” she said during the Feb. 5 breakfast.

That initiative was prompted by residents’ concerns that data centers are being built near homes, demanding large amounts of power, and requiring additional transmission infrastructure.

Those concerns were addressed by Turner and Randall, who both said data centers are a crucial part of Loudoun’s economy. They also said concerns surrounding the grid capacity and proximity to residential neighborhoods are valid.

“We have 199 data centers on the ground,” Turner said. “We currently have 49 million square feet built. We have another 117 in the pipeline, 84 parcels that have site plans on them for data centers. Presumably, the vast majority of those are by-right. An additional 74 I think, parcels representing what could be an additional 33 data centers, for basically 117 data cen-

Diversity Plan

continued from page 3

bureaucracy, what I see more as administration, additional funding, additional jobs to accomplish this and I’m not convinced that we need to be. So, I’m not supportive of some elements of this plan,” he said.

Kershner said in addition to those points, he did not fully understand the problem that the LEAP is trying to solve.

“I feel like we’re spending a lot of work, a lot of resources toward something that hasn’t really fully been identified,” he said.

Referencing the first LEAP goal, Kershner said the county is already having a hard time hiring employees for existing vacancies.

What happens if three equally qualified candidates of different races apply for the same job, he asked.

“Does that mean the one that has more in a particular department gets eliminated automatically? These are kind of the problems that I think as we get further into this we will begin to struggle with. And then we’re making decisions based in some part on potential race. … That to me is troubling,” he said.

Kershner said he had also been approached by potential employees after being interviewed for county positions who said they had been asked about their

ters in the pipeline. Nowhere else on planet Earth has that kind of a challenge.”

The issue is the result of the quickly changing digital environment with no one being “the bad guys,” he said.

“Well, now we recognize that the market’s changing, and the data centers are starting to recognize that they’re changing,” Turner said.

That will likely result in three situations, he said. The first is that data center growth will be constrained by a lack of power as predicted in a recent study conducted by the state’s Joint Legislative and Audit Review Commission.

The second is that technology will develop to process information with less power, however that will quickly be taken up by additional centers, he said.

“Jevons Paradox says any resource that is used more efficiently will result in a greater use of that resource,” he said.

Randall said there is a “push and pull” relationship between data centers and housing.

“There is a push and pull because there’s only so much land, and you can’t create land,” she said. “And we have had more than one time when we have a housing development that was going gangbusters and was going to be putting more attainable housing down and then a data center came in and they bought the property for well

stance on the county’s DEIA policies.

“I think that’s completely inappropriate. I don’t think we should be asking that. I think that’s discriminatory, quite frankly,” he said.

Rush said no one in the county would have asked a potential employee about their stance on the DEIA policies.

“We are an equal opportunity employer and we don’t discriminate in any form. It’s listed in our HR handbook. It has been there since I’ve here and before. We strictly look at candidates for their qualifications, their experience and their merit. Never does race or any form of protected class really come into our decision-making process,” Rush said.

The goal is to expand the applicant pool to get the best and the brightest, he added.

County Chair Phyllis J. Randall (D-At Large) reiterated that point.

“The goal is to cast a wider net to make sure that we are getting a diverse and highly qualified workforce, not a workforce that is one color or another,” she said.

It also makes sense to check in on the county’s core requirements periodically, Randall said.

“Let’s not pretend that we have always been the county that we are now, because just 10 years ago there were some very different things going on in this county,” she said. n

more and they put a data center up.”

Randall said when she took office in 2016 the number one complaint she received from residents was about traffic congestion; now, consistently, Loudouners’ top complaint is about data centers.

“I used to say to people, ‘the data centers do this for your tax rate and do this for the community. And people will say, ‘oh, OK, I didn’t know that.’ Now I say, ‘the data centers do this for your tax rate and are really, really good for the community.’ And they say, ‘I don’t care. I will pay more taxes. Stop building them,’” she said.

It is important then to keep data centers away from areas planned to be more urban, she added.

“The whole point of the Urban Policy Area is dense, vertical housing. The whole point of an urban policy area is a performing arts center or hotels or businesses or something like that,” she said.

And attainable housing availability continues to trail behind the goals set by the board, TeKrony said.

“We have 30,000 units in the pipeline, and only 9.5 [percent] are attainable,” she said.

Possible solutions that she would like to pursue could be setting up a county housing authority, building attainable housing units for teachers on Loudoun County Public School property or on churches.

Land Values

continued from page 1

told an audience gathered for a Loudoun Chamber event that 117 more data centers are coming to the county’s existing roster of 199 buildings.

The value of data center taxable real property is over six times as high as it was in 2020 when it was valued at $6.7 billion. That amount nearly doubled over the next two years reaching $11.8 billion in 2022.

While this year’s increase in values might not have been attributed to new construction, data center square footage has more than doubled since 2020 when it was recorded at approximately 22 million square feet.

Residential values continue to make up the largest category of property types at 58.1%, but that is a 3.2% decline from last year. The value of the county’s total 149,927 parcels is $170.5 billion, up 19.6% over 2024.

Wertz and Deputy Commissioner Jim White said the limited supply of residential units is driving this year’s increase in home values.

“Inventory continues to be below average for Loudoun County,” White said. “As of December 2024, there was a less than 30-day supply of inventory and the average was 1.5 months or 45 days. … Generally, a

“The board has been land banking for affordable housing, so I think that’s a new start for this board and I definitely support that,” she said. “But there are a lot of ideas, and it probably is time to update our Unmet Housing Needs Strategic Plan.”

Supervisors also talked about the state of the county’s transportation network with Randall saying the most pressing transportation issue is the lack of use of existing options by commuters.

“You go down [Rt.] 15 and everyone is in a single occupancy vehicle, everyone,” she said. “We have transit options here that no one uses, except for the long-haul busses. Those are full, people like those busses. Not even the metro, which is doing well, is not full enough yet.”

The path forward is twofold, she said.

“Part of it is an education moment, and then figuring out if we have the right [bus] routes,” Randall said.

TeKrony said she would like TLUC to review the transportation plan to see if all of the currently planned projects are necessary.

“There are a lot of requests from board members and from the community and I think it’s really time to look at our network. We want to achieve a multimodal network, and so looking at connecting Loudoun is important and it is expensive,” she said. n

five-to-seven-month supply is considered to be a balanced market when neither the buyer nor the seller has an advantage.”

The average overall time on the market for a residential unit in 2024 was 17.8 days. Single-family units on average sold for $1.1 million, townhouses for $703,000, and condos for $500,000.

The assessments for single family homes increased the most at 7.34% for units with public utilities and 7.39% for parcels over 20 acres without public utilities. Both are higher increases than last year’s reassessments. The category that saw the smallest increase was condos at 3.14%.

The average single family detached dwelling in Loudoun is assessed at $983.625, up more than $70,000 over 2024.

By district, Little River saw the highest increase residential taxable values at 19.9%, while Sterling had the lowest at 8%.

Values in the Rt. 28 and Metrorail service tax districts also saw increases.

Assessment notices began to be mailed to property owners Friday and have been updated in the county’s database at loudoun.gov/ParcelDatabase.

Property owners who believe their assessments are incorrect may file an Application for Review with the Commissioner of the Revenue’s office online at  loudoun.gov/reaa by March 14. n

A Loudoun Moment

Robert Green

continued from page 3

Everybody in here and you, young man, I can look at you and tell that someday you are going to be a leader, and a leader that we’ll all hear about a leader doing good things, and you make your mama proud of you. She’s probably right now. I know she is,” he said.

Green detailed much of his experience with King, and with Andrew Young. He called King a “smart kid,” with a book always in hand.

“He finished college at 15 years of age. He was a scholar, studied all the time, read all the time, and stayed on us young men to do the right thing all the time. I want to thank him for being the example for me that he was. He was tremendous,” Green said.

Green described hearing King preach about Vietnam. One time, he said that no

one moved for over an hour and a half. He also said that several people told him not to speak out against the war, because President Lyndon B. Johnson won’t invite him to the White House again.

“King said, ‘Fine. Shut me out if you can.’ Can you imagine somebody trying to shut King off? No. Those were the days and the times that were important to me,” Green said.

His time in Mississippi and Lansing were also big parts of his story. He said that he knew Suggs Ingram, the sheriff of Grenada, MS, who he knew had shot and killed several Black men.

“So, when I heard that Suggs had killed two Black men, and I asked for what, people looked at me and asked, ‘what you do mean for what? Could be anything.’ I had to deal with that in my heart and ask God to give me strength to able to look at him and just say ‘hello.’ Look at him as if he is a human being,” Green said.

He also told the story of John and

Betty Dooley, a white couple who helped them buy a home in Lansing when white sellers would tell him a house was already sold.

“Betty Dooley will get in the face of the most racist whites and say you’re wrong to deny that person an opportunity to buy a home in East Lansing,” Green said. “She would look at them, and they would drop their head, and that was another indication of the need to try to do the right thing and to try to be free in the moment.”

Green’s family was a large part of every topic he spoke about. He said his wife, known as Miss Letty, was tough and did a great job raising their boys, even though he was on the road. Green wanted to publicly thank her for marrying him. He told the story of her showing up in Mississippi during a march, and how she still won’t tell him how she got there.

“If you ever have a secret that you don’t want anybody to know, tell my wife,” he said.

He also said that the people in the Civil Rights Movement respected her and called her “Miss Letty.” He also mentioned his three sons, and how proud he is of them, but said they wouldn’t appreciate if he told all the things they did as kids.

Green also told stories of his father, mother and siblings in Detroit. He said the reason he and his siblings survived was because they had “a good mother and a good father.”

He said that there wasn’t much conflict in his family, but he did hold resentment against his brother for talking back to his father when they were growing up.

“When I published our first book, I found John, went to his house, spent the night with him. I gave him a copy of the book and I apologize to him,” Green said. “I said, ‘John, I was angry with you for a long time, because you stood up against my dad.’ But I said, ‘I love you,’ and guess what? We hugged. We hug and made up. Repairing friendships is key.” n

Douglas Graham/Loudoun Now

A large cloud hangs over the top of the Blue Ridge Mountains along the Appalachian Trail between Rt. 7 and Rt. 50.