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| Dranesville Dispatch November 2017: Issue 41 |
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News and Information for
Dranesville District Residents
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John Foust
Dranesville District Supervisor
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Contact us at:
Dranesville District Supervisor
McLean Governmental Center
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Message from Supervisor John Foust
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Dear Dranesville Resident,
Welcome to the Fall issue of the Dranesville Dispatch!
This issue is full of news about a number of completed capital improvement and transportation projects throughout Dranesville. Many other projects are underway, and I look forward to sharing more updates with you as they progress.
There are several opportunities for your community involvement mentioned in this newsletter. One opportunity is the Transportation Priorities Plan update. Community input will inform how Fairfax County will allocate $100 million available to currently unfunded but priority transportation projects. Another is the Turner Farm Master Plan revision, which will help ensure that the park continues to meet the needs of our community going forward. I hope you'll read more about these opportunities in this Dispatch and take the time to comment.
In addition to the Dranesville Dispatch and monthly Happenings newsletters, I share a lot of information online via social media. Follow me on Twitter (johnfoustva) and on Facebook (dranesvillesupervisor) to stay up to date on what's going on in Dranesville and Fairfax County.
As always, I appreciate your thoughts on how to best serve you and all residents of the Dranesville community and I welcome the opportunity to speak with your civic group or homeowners association. I encourage you to contact my office if you have questions, concerns, or to set up a meeting. It is my honor to serve you.
John
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DRANESVILLE AND COUNTY NEWS
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Tysons-Pimmit Regional Library Reopened
Falls Church
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Members of the community gathered to explore the renovated library facility. |
Community members joined Supervisor Foust, other elected officials, and Fairfax County staff to celebrate the renovation and reopening of the Tysons-Pimmit Regional Library. Located at 7584 Leesburg Pike in Falls Church, the library building reopened on October 14 after undergoing an extensive renovation that began in January 2016. This library branch first opened in 1974 and moved to its current location in 1985. The $5.6 million renovation was funded through the 2012 bond referendum.
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| Supervisor John Foust joined Delegate Marcus Simon (left) and Karrie Delaney, Chair of the Fairfax County Public Library Board of Trustees (center), to celebrate the reopening. |
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The renovations include new exterior and interior design features, upgrades to building systems, energy efficiency improvements - the project is registered with the certification goal of LEED silver - and upgrades to power and technology options, including more public access computers and wireless networking.
The library has resumed its pre-renovation hours. More information about the library and its hours is available online at
http://bit.ly/2gP2znt.
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Dulles Station Community Park Opened
Herndon
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| Front row, from left: Sara Baldwin, Fairfax County Park Authority Deputy Director and Acting Executive Director; Rob Aaront, Maintenance Crewmember; Dave Bowden, FPCA Planning and Development Director; Wayne Brissey, FCPA Area 6 Manager; Tim Hackman, Dranesville District Representative to the Park Authority Board; Dranesville District Supervisor John Foust; Kevin Tankersley, Urban Limited Director of Landscape Architecture; Jake Bronstein, CBG Building Company Project Engineer; Catherine Hughes, Greystar Community Manager. |
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Supervisor Foust and Tim Hackman, Dranesville District Representative to the Park Authority Board, joined Fairfax County Park Authority staff and
members of the community to celebrate the opening of Dulles Station Community Park, located at 13707 Sayward Boulevard in Herndon.
The 2.6-acre park includes playgrounds for preschoolers and elementary-age children, as well as a seating area, plaza, clustered fitness area, multi-use court, a dog park with a shade pavilion, a trail, landscaping, irrigation and signage. Dulles Station Community Park was part of a rezoning/development proffer that required a community park be constructed to serve as a public gathering space.
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New Herndon Fire and Rescue Station Opened
Herndon
Fairfax County and Town of Herndon officials and community members joined Fairfax County Fire and Rescue to celebrate the grand opening of Fire and Rescue Station 4 in Herndon. In 1995, the County started looking to build a new fire station to serve Herndon and the surrounding area. The old facility did not have the expansion capacity to accommodate projected increasing demands or the necessary flexibility for future growth. County staff worked closely with the Town to find the best site and several locations were considered. Ultimately, based on response times and construction costs, it was determined that the site of the old station, 680 Spring Street, was the best place to build the new station.
The new two-story fire station has approximately 14,500 square feet and contains one level of underground parking. The station can accommodate a shift of fourteen and four pieces of apparatus equipment, including an engine, two transport units, and a rescue unit, if needed in the future. In addition, the new station provides for larger women's facilities, decontamination areas
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Supervisor Foust participated in the traditional coupling and uncoupling of the fire hose with other elected officials and community leaders to celebrate the Grand Opening of the new Fire and Rescue Station 4 in Herndon on April 22. |
required by the National Fire
Protection Association (NFPA) Code, and will meet ADA requirements.
The building is set back a minimum of twelve feet along Spring Street in order to allow for a pedestrian-friendly walkway and landscaping along the frontage. The design for the site and building used LEED Green Building principals to minimize the environmental impact. Some of the sustainable features include the vegetated roof, low-flow plumbing fixtures, water-efficient landscaping, energy-efficient HVAC equipment, and use of regional materials.
Funding for construction of the new station was provided by the Public Safety Bond Referendum approved by Fairfax County voters in November of 2012. A temporary station was constructed and used during the construction of the new facility.
Supervisor Foust commented, "When I took office in 2008, I made it a priority to assure that Dranesville District residents are served by excellent public safety facilities. We have constructed new fire stations in Great Falls and on Route 7 near Wolf Trap, and we completed a significant renovation and expansion of the police station in McLean. It is great to add this new fire and rescue station in Herndon to our public safety infrastructure."
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Lewinsville Center Campus Renovation Update
McLean
The project to renovate and increase the capacity of the Lewinsville Center Campus, to better serve the growing senior population, is underway in McLean. When completed, the Lewinsville Center Campus will include 82 independent living residences for seniors, all of which will be provided as affordable units. In addition, the intergenerational campus will include a new senior center, adult daycare center, and two separate child care centers.
During construction, the Adult Day Center is located at 7700 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church and the Senior Center is temporarily housed at the Lewinsville Retirement Residence, located at 1515 Great Falls Street. The two child daycare centers are temporarily operating in learning cottages on what was the athletic field at the site.
Residents who had been living at the Center were relocated to other County facilities, and those who wish to move back to the facility following completion will be given first priority. Construction on the residential building began earlier this fall and is expected to be completed in October 2018.
Work on the new 32,000 square foot building that will house the senior center and adult and child daycare centers began in October and is expected to be completed in February 2019.
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McLean Community Center Renovation Update
McLean
The project to renovate and expand the McLean Community Center (MCC) is underway. A total of 33,000 square feet will be renovated and 7,700 square feet will be added to the MCC. The new space will include two additional multi-purpose rooms, an enclosed courtyard with seating, and landscaping. The project will also include refurbished meeting rooms, and new wall, ceiling, and floor treatments.
The contractor, Sorensen Gross Construction Services, has performed extensive work on the building's exterior, by clearing the landscape and installing elements of a new, more efficient stormwater management system. A County arborist continues to monitor the health of the trees and shrubs on the property and will arrange for any needed treatments, pruning, or removals.
The building has been closed since April 1, 2017 with plans to reopen in fall 2018. During this period, the majority of MCC's classes are being held at 6645 Old Dominion Drive, in the McLean Square Shopping Center. The space also houses the MCC's registration office. During the construction period, MCC's administrative offices are located in the same shopping center as the new classroom space, at 6631 Old Dominion Drive, on the first floor of the Century 21 New Millennium building. McLean Project for the Arts is operating its programs at 1446 Chain Bridge Road, next to the Giant.
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Towlston Road Spot Improvement Project Completed
Vienna
Fairfax County completed a spot improvement project on Towlston Road near its intersection with Route 7. The project included the construction of an additional turn lane on northbound Towlston Road, realignment of the existing median for better traffic flow, and signal modification to provide better traffic timing.
Pre-improvement
Left picture: Northbound Towlston Road, looking toward Route 7. Right picture: Towlston Road, view from Route 7.
Post-improvement
Left picture: Northbound Towlston Road, looking toward Route 7. Right picture: Towlston Road, view from Route 7.
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Old Dominion/Linway/Birch Pedestrian Improvement Project Completed - McLean
A pedestrian improvement project at the intersection of Old Dominion Drive, Linway Terrace, and Birch Road in McLean was completed by Fairfax County in August 2017.
The project provided geometric and pedestrian access improvements across the  intersection, and to the bus stops located within the intersection. All pedestrian facilities, including crosswalk markings, were upgraded to current Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards. As part of the project, the intersection turning radius was redefined through the installation of new curb and gutter and minor drainage improvements were completed. The Virginia Department of Transportation will be replacing the signals at the intersection with new mast arms in early 2018.
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| Looking south toward intersection from Linway Terrace. |
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| Northwest corner of intersection (Linway and Old Dominion). |
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| Headed west on Old Dominion from intersection. |
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Transportation Priorities Plan Update
Countywide
The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors and Fairfax County Department of Transportation (FCDOT) are seeking feedback from the community to help prioritize unfunded transportation projects in the County. The results of this outreach will assist the Board of Supervisors in selecting transportation priorities that can be implemented with existing revenue sources through Fiscal Year 2023, and with additional funding that may become available in the future.
The County has identified more than 100 unfunded capital and operating projects important for improving the efficiency and safety of the County's transportation network. These projects are in addition to the
approximately 300 projects that are already funded and underway.
The unfunded projects include interchange improvements, roadway extensions, spot improvements, roadway widening projects, transit, and pedestrian and bicycle improvements. With limited funding available for these proposed projects, the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors is seeking feedback from the community on which projects should be funded. Below are some resources on the proposed unfunded projects as well as projects already funded and currently underway:
*NOTE: This interactive map includes both unfunded projects under consideration and projects already funded and currently underway.
FCDOT hosted four public meetings for the community to learn more about the projects proposed for funding. Each meeting included an open house followed by a formal presentation and Q & A session.
Input can also be provided by completing a
survey. The survey will be available online through Thursday, November 9 but comments will continue to be accepted after that date and may be provided online at
https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/fcdot/tpp2017.htm and by mail to Fairfax County Department of Transportation/TPP 2017, 4050 Legato Road, Suite 400 Fairfax, VA 22033.
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Georgetown Pike Trail Phase IV Project Underway
Great Falls
The Fairfax County Department of Transportation (FCDOT) is currently in the design phase of the Georgetown Pike Trail Phase IV project, which will complete a 1200-foot long section of trail between Falls Bridge Lane and Seneca Road.
FCDOT held a community meeting on October 4 to discuss design elements of the trail and answer questions. This was a follow-up to a meeting that was held in March, which focused on Phase III of the trail (a 250-foot long section between Falls Chase Court and Falls Bridge Lane) and the preliminary designs for Phase IV. Construction on Phase IV is expected to be completed in 2020.
More information about both Phase III and Phase IV is available online at http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/fcdot/pedestrian/georgetownpiketrail.htm.
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McLean Area Regional Traffic Concerns
McLean
In response to the concerns of residents throughout the McLean area, Supervisor Foust has been working with Delegate Kathleen Murphy, Senator Barbara Favola, the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT), Fairfax County Department of Transportation (FCDOT), and Fairfax County Police Department (FCPD) on options for addressing the backups and cut-through traffic caused by the lack of sufficient capacity on the American Legion Bridge.
In partnership with the McLean Citizens Association, a community meeting was held on September 18, at which VDOT and FCDOT staff addressed numerous suggestions that were received for improving traffic problems in the area.
VDOT has begun implementing several
 improvements to the intersection of Balls Hill Road and Georgetown Pike, including painting the "box" (intersection) and constructing a pull-off area on the north side of Georgetown Pike between Balls Hill Road and the Beltway ramp so that the police can safety enforce traffic violations, such as when a driver enters the intersection and is unable to travel all the way through, also known as "blocking the box." (Photos of progress in early October at right and below.)
VDOT also installed larger "Do Not Block Intersection" signs with large orange flags to increase the visibility of the signs at the intersection. In addition, an intersection warning sign was installed on Georgetown Pike east of its intersection with Douglass Drive.
In addition, Supervisor Foust, Delegate Murphy, and Senator Favola will appoint residents to a citizen task force, which will work closely with VDOT and FCDOT staff and act as representatives of the community, to review staff recommendations and share updates with their neighbors.
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Short-Term Rentals in Fairfax County
Countywide
A short-term rental (STR) is any occupancy of a dwelling for a period of less than thirty days. The Fairfax County Zoning Ordinance currently does not permit such uses in any dwelling unit and only allows short-term overnight stays as a hotel/motel or bed and breakfast, both of which could require a rezoning or special exception.
In 2017 the Virginia General Assembly passed
Senate Bill 1578, which gives localities the authority to require registration of STRs. As a result, the Board of Supervisors directed the creation of a working group to draft zoning regulations for STRs in the County and to establish a registry of STRs. In proposing STR regulations to the Board, the working group seeks to balance residents' interests to protect the character of their neighborhood with the interests of persons wanting to operate STRs within their residence.
On November 1, County staff briefed the Planning Commission and gathered input on proposed regulations, followed by discussion and public comment. Going forward, the Board of Supervisors will set a date for a public hearing.
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Land Use Cases in Dranesville
Trustees of Temple Rodef Shalom
SEA 97-D -038-02
2100 Westmoreland Street, Falls Church
On October 24, 2017 the Board of Supervisors approved an application to amend a previously approved special exception for place of worship, nursery school, and child care center to construct a building addition totaling about 16,100 square feet and a 98-space surface parking lot. Additionally, the Board allowed an increase in enrollment of the existing nursery school from 150 to 165 children and an extension of the operation of the summer camp by one additional week. The approved plan doubles the amount of on-site parking. Various stormwater improvements will reduce stormwater flow to pre-development levels. As a condition of approval, the applicant will be required to limit the use of amplified music, install full cutoff lighting fixtures, and use window treatments to limit light pollution.
Information including a map of the site, staff report, and development conditions can be found
here.
Plan Amendment 2017-II-M1
McLean CBC, Subarea 12, 6707 Old Dominion Drive, McLean
On July 11, 2017 the Board of Supervisors authorized the consideration of a Comprehensive Plan amendment for 6707 Old Dominion Drive. The property is located in Subarea 12 of the McLean Community Business Center in the McLean Planning District. The adopted Plan for this area recommends office over retail uses at an intensity up to .70 FAR. The Board requested that staff consider the addition of a multi-family building comprised of approximately 50 residential units on a portion of the subject property. The Plan amendment is being considered concurrently with rezoning application RZ 2017-DR-026 (Benchmark Associates, L.P.).
Information regarding the proposed amendment, including a map of the site, public hearing dates, and staff report can be found
here.
Benchmark Associates, L.P.
RZ 2017-DR-026, FDP 2017-DR-026
6707 Old Dominion Drive, McLean
Applicant requests a rezoning from the C-8 Zoning District to the Planned Residential Mixed-Use (PRM) Zoning District to add a residential condominium building with 44 dwelling units. The proposed 96,800 square foot residential building would occupy the area of the property which is currently a surface parking lot. The existing office/retail building on the site would remain.
Information including a map of the site, public hearing dates, and staff report can be found
here.
Pomeroy/Clark LLC
PCA -C -637-04, RZ 2016-DR-027, FDP 2016-DR-027
Northwest Quadrant of the intersection of Sunrise Valley Drive and Frying Pan Road, Herndon
Applicant requests a rezoning to the Planned Residential Mixed-Use (PRM) zoning district to permit development of a mixed-use project consisting primarily of
multi-family, townhouse units, and neighborhood serving retail on approximately 43 acres.
Information including a map of the site, public hearing dates, and staff report can be found
here.
Aurora Station at Dulles (Pomeroy Companies, Inc. / Pomeroy Investments Inc., TR)
RZ 2017-DR-012, PCA -C -637-05 , FDP 2017-DR-012
Northeast Quadrant of the intersection of Sunrise Valley Drive and Frying Pan Road, Herndon
Application to rezone 39.43 acre parcel from the I-5 and R-1 district to the Planned Residential Mixed-Use (PRM) district, to permit a maximum of 1,013
residential units, between 80,000 and 130,000 square feet of medical care or independent living, and a mixed-used development consisting of multi-family, hotel, retail, and office up to 310,000 square feet.
Information including a map of the site, public hearing dates, and staff report can be found
here.
Makers Rise (Houston Office Partners, L.P. and DSVO Dulles L.P.)
PCA-C-696-011, CDPA-C-696-02, FDPA-C-696-04
East and west side of and part of Dulles Station Boulevard, approximately 245 feet south of its intersection with Sunrise Valley Drive, Herndon
The applicant seeks approval of a Partial Proffer Condition Amendment (PCA) and Conceptual Development Plan Amendment (CDPA) application on 7.33 acres of the original 63-acre Dulles Station development to permit the replacement of two unbuilt twelve-story office buildings with two residential buildings, containing a minimum of 5,000 square feet of ground floor retail and/or potential office uses.
Information including a map of the site, public hearing dates, and staff report can be found
here.
Mahlon A. Burnette, III and Mary H. Burnette
SE 2015-DR-027
631 Walker Road, Great Falls
Special Exception application to waive the minimum lot width requirement in order to subdivide a 4.00-acre, R-E zoned parcel into two lots. The property is developed with a single-family detached dwelling that would remain. The overall density of the proposed subdivision would be 0.5 units per acre (or one dwelling per two acres).
Information including a map of the site, public hearing dates, and staff report can be found
here.
Stanley Martin Companies, LLC
PCA 2017-DR-014, CDPA 2017-DR-014, FDPA 2017-DR-014A
South side of Dulles Technology Drive between River Birch Road and Sunrise Valley Drive, Herndon
The applicant seeks approval of a Conceptual Development Plan Amendment (CDPA) associated with RZ 2017-DR-014 to incorporate two-over-two multi-family staked homes.
Information including a map of the site, public hearing dates, and staff report can be found
here.
Peter J. Fitzgerald Jr.
SE 2017-DR-027
7327 Georgetown Pike, McLean
Applicant proposes a 5-home cluster subdivision on 5.39 acres in the R-1 zoning district and a waiver of the minimum district size. No additional density beyond what is allowed under by-right development is proposed.
Information including a map of the site, public hearing dates, and staff report can be found
here.
Sunoco Retail LLC
SEA 86-D -056-03
11516 Leesburg Pike, Herndon
The applicant seeks elimination of Development Condition #6 of previously approved SEA 86-D-056-02, which limits the types of products that can be sold within the quick-service food store. No physical modifications or other changes to the use are proposed.
Information including a map of the site, public hearing dates, and staff report can be found
here.
Arrowbrook Centre, LLC
PCA 2002-HM-043-03, FDPA 2002-HM-043-04, CDPA 2002-HM-043-02, FDPA 2002-HM-043-05
West side of Centreville Road, north of Arrowbrook Drive, south of the Dulles Airport Access and Toll Road, Herndon
Applicant requests to amend a previously approved application for one 85-foot tall multi-family building in Land Bay C2 with 104 dwellings and 3,600 square feet of ground floor retail to three smaller buildings up to 65-feet tall with approximately 96 total dwelling units. In Land Bay D2, the applicant requests an increase in height of a previously approved residential building from 65 to 85 feet and eliminates a previously approved low-rise. No change in uses or increase in units, density, or gross square feet is being requested.
Information including a map of the site, public hearing dates, and staff report can be found
here.
Tradition Homes, LLC
RZ 2017-DR-023
East side of Dranesville Road, approximately 960 feet south of its intersection with Wiehle Avenue, Herndon
Application to rezone 5.76 acres of land from R-1 to R-3 to construct a 13-lot subdivision.
Information including a map of the site, public hearing dates, and staff report can be found
here.
Liberty Crossing (W-MRP LP OWNER A VIII, L.L.C)
RZ 2017-DR-028
Southwest quadrant of the intersection of Sunrise Valley Drive and Dulles Technology Drive, Herndon
Applicant proposes to rezone 33.65 acres of land from the I-4 to PDC (Planned Development Commercial) district to construct a mixed-use development comprised of office (687,000 SF), retail (39,600 SF), and residential uses (1779 units).
Information including a map of the site, public hearing dates, and staff report can be found
here.
For more information on land use cases in Dranesville contact Ben Wiles in the office of Supervisor Foust at Benjamin.Wiles@FairfaxCounty.gov or call 703-356-0551.
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Turner Farm Park Master Plan and Resident Curator Program
Great Falls
The Fairfax County Park Authority (FCPA) is currently working to update the master plan for Turner Farm Park. A master plan revision is undertaken when a park or its surrounding community has notably changed since the approval of the current master plan.
Though the current
Turner Farm Park Master Plan, which was approved in 2000, reflects most of the existing features of the property, additional land has been acquired subsequent to the 2000 master plan approval, including the Turner Farm House and associated structures.
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Draft Conceptual Development Plan
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In addition, the existing plan does not account for the
Resident Curator Program which was established in 2014 as a public-private partnership opportunity. The program calls for unused, publicly-owned historic properties to be leased to individuals or groups. Curators are then required to rehabilitate and maintain the properties at their own expense. The rehabilitation must be in accordance with national historic preservation standards, and curators must allow the public to visit or tour the buildings. The program helps preserve local historic properties at a minimum cost to tax payers.
A number of applications for the Resident Curator program at the Turner Farm House were received and reviewed by FCPA staff. One application proceeded through all three steps in the review process and was presented to the community at a public meeting held in May. The applicant, a member of the Great Falls community, is proposing residential use of the house, creating a pony farm on three acres of land, and converting the current garage-apartment structure into a bereavement retreat center for youth who have lost a parent or sibling. In July, the Park Authority Board approved moving the application forward to the leasing process. Before executing a lease, the Master Plan must be approved.
A public meeting was held on October 30 to present the draft conceptual plan to the community and garner feedback. Once comments have been received and taken into consideration, the FCPA Board anticipates approving the revisions to the Master Plan in December 2017.
Comments will be
 accepted until November 29 and can be sent to
parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov or Fairfax County Park Authority Planning and Development Division, 12055 Government Center Parkway, Suite 204, Fairfax, Virginia 22035.
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Franklin Park and Chesterbrook Neighborhood
Stormwater Improvement Project
When new homes are built in the Dranesville District, they are often "infill"
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Supervisor Foust joined County staff and community members to celebrate the completion of the project. |
developments, which is a term used to describe the process of developing vacant or under-used parcels within areas that are already largely developed. Unfortunately these new developments can put additional strain on existing drainage and stormwater infrastructure. The County has been working within communities to address these issues.
The Franklin Park and Chesterbrook Neighborhood Stormwater Improvement Project was completed in 2017. This project provided for the restoration of approximately 3,000 linear feet of green infrastructure type stormwater improvements. The primary goals of this project were to retrofit the site to provide improved water quality, to reduce localized flooding, and to improve stormwater flow.
Pre-improvement
Post-improvement
The work included the construction of infiltration trenches, underground stormwater chambers, amended swales, and permeable pavers. The disturbed areas of the site were restored with native plants, shrubs, trees and sod.
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Police Auditor and Civilian Review Panel Now Accepting Complaints
Countywide
In December 2016, the Board of Supervisors established a Civilian Review Panel (CRP) to review complaints concerning alleged misconduct by Fairfax County police officers. The establishment of a CRP was included in the recommendations put forth in the Ad Hoc Police Practices Review Commission's final report, which was submitted to the Board of Supervisors in October 2015. In February 2016, the Police Auditor and the nine members of the CRP were appointed.
Complaints or requests to review an already completed police investigation regarding alleged police misconduct, such as officer-involved shooting, in-custody death, and use of force, will be reviewed by the Police Auditor, Richard Schott.
If the request involves alleged abuse of authority or serious misconduct by a police officer, the nine-member CRP will lead the review. Examples of complaints and cases the CRP will review may include use of abusive, racial, ethnic or sexual language; harassment or discrimination based on race, color, sex, religion, national origin, marital status, age, familial status, or disability; reckless endangerment of a detainee or person in custody; and serious violations of Fairfax County or police procedures.
The same form is used to submit complaints for review to the auditor or review panel and can be submitted online at
https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/government/board/policeauditor/complaint-form.htm.
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Thermal Camera Loan Program
Starting this year, Fairfax County residents can borrow thermal imaging cameras from any branch of the Fairfax County Public Library. These cameras, which attach to smartphones, allow the user to see hot and cold spots in the home that are not visible to the naked eye. These attachments can be used to inspect homes and businesses for hot and cold spots, which often indicate energy saving opportunities.
In this example, a thermal camera is used to indicate that there is space under the door that is allowing air to draft through. The homeowner can then take action by sealing the gap and saving money in the long-term.
 Residents can reserve a camera online at http://bit.ly/2nVO9I2. A total of eight cameras are available for this free program.
The cameras are offered through a partnership with the library and
Energy Action Fairfax, a program to help homeowners save money, cut energy use, and reduce their carbon footprint.
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Basic Needs Assistance - Directing Residents to the Help They Need
Countywide
Coordinated Services Planning (CSP), a division of the Department of Neighborhood and Community Services, specializes in assessing the needs of individuals and families and connecting them to County and community-based resources that can help fulfill those needs.
Specialists serve callers in more than 14 languages to assess and find solutions for a variety of needs, including:
- Food, clothing, housing, and transportation services
- Care for children, older adults and people with disabilities
- Health care services
- Job training, employment, education and legal assistance
- Recreational activities for all ages and those with special needs
Contact CSP by calling 703-222-0880, TTY 711. Specialists are available Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
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Tips from Fairfax County - When a Salesperson Knocks on Your Door
Countywide
Any time of year, it's good to keep in mind some tips for staying safe from scammers. The following is what you need to know before you open your door:
1. Know the Regulations
- Door-to-door salespeople must be licensed by Fairfax County
- Door-to-door sales are restricted to between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m.
- A salesperson may not solicit at a residence which posts a "No Peddlers or Solicitors" sign
- Solicitors must provide, upon request, a written receipt that includes a brief description of the goods or services sold, the total purchase price, amount of cash payment, if any, and the balance due and terms of payment
2. Ask to See License
When a salesperson knocks on your door:
- Ask to see their license to solicit in Fairfax County
- If they do not have a valid license, ask them to leave, close and lock your door, and immediately call Fairfax County Police (non-emergency) at 703-691-2131 (TTY 711) to report the violation
This is what a Fairfax County solicitor's license looks like (front and back):
Sample of Fairfax County solicitor's license.
3. Fairfax County Consumer Affairs staff are available to answer questions about door-to-door salespeople:
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Responsible Dog Ownership
Countywide
There are more than 87,000 registered dogs in Fairfax County. The following are 10 helpful tips to be a responsible dog owner:
1. Identify Your Pet - Make sure your dog wears a collar with a current license and ID tag and has a microchip with up-to-date information.
2. Vaccinate Your Dog - Proof of a valid rabies vaccine is required for licensing your dog in Fairfax County. Check with your vet to determine what other vaccines are most appropriate for your dog.
4. Spay or Neuter Your Pet
5. Enroll Your Dog in a Training or Obedience Class - The Park Authority offers basic and advanced obedience classes. Register by visiting
Parktakes Online.
6. Keep Your Dog Physically Fit
7. Obey Leash Laws - In Fairfax County, dogs are required to be on a leash at all times in public areas unless they're in a
designated off-leash area.
9. Protect Your Dog From the Elements
10. Give Your Dog Companionship
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October Designated as Cyber Security Month
Front row pictured from left to right: Supervisor John Foust; Wanda Gibson, Director, Department of Information Technology; Michael Dent, Chief Information Security Officer; Chairman Sharon Bulova.
The Board of Supervisors designated October 2017 as Cyber Security Month in Fairfax County. Information from the County's Office of Emergency Management on how to protect your computer and personal information is available online at
https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/emergency/hazards/cyber-security.htm.
Great Falls Library Community Room Dedicated to Marge Gersic
Supervisor Foust with former Dranesville Supervisor Lilla Richards. Ribbon cutting picture from left: Sally Burns, the honorable Lilla Richards, Supervisor John Foust, John Gersic, and GFCA representative, Eric Knudsen.
The Friends of the Great Falls Library and the Great Falls Citizens Association held a ribbon cutting to recognize the dedication of the largest meeting room in the Great Falls Library as the Marge Toni Gersic Community Room. Ms. Gersic was a long-time resident of Great Falls and a community leader in the effort to obtain the library for the area.
ADAMS Center Ribbon Cutting and Open House
The All Dulles Area Muslim Society (ADAMS) Center celebrated the completion of an expansion project which almost doubled the space available for events, programs, and other activities. Supervisor Foust joined other elected officials and community members for an Open House and ribbon cutting to celebrate the opening of the new space.
Supervisor Foust said, "I have enjoyed visiting the ADAMS Center for many years. I am excited that the expanded facilities will provide even more opportunities for our community to visit and take part in the great programming ADAMS offers."
Supervisor Foust Recognized by Great Falls Group of the Sierra Club
The Great Falls Group of the Sierra Club of Virginia presented Supervisor Foust with a certificate of appreciation for his leadership in the development of the Climate and Energy Core Service area of the 2017 Fairfax County Environmental Vision. Supervisor Foust said, "I am grateful for the recognition from the Great Falls Group of the Sierra Club, but even more appreciative of their leadership on environmental issues in our community."
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2017 Champions of Character Awards
Fairfax County Athletic Council and Neighborhood and Community Services
Pictured from left to right: Fairfax County Public School Board At-Large Members Karen Keys-Gamarra, Ryan McElveen, Ilryong Moon; Supervisor John Foust; Claudia Peters; Chairman Sharon Bulova; Teddy Dehn; Karlye Pallotta; Chris Leonard, Director, Neighborhood and Community Services; Adam Knudson; Ray Pugsley, Owner Potomac River Running and Former Olympic Trials Finalist.
The Fairfax County Champions of Character Awards program honors youth, coaches, and parents for extraordinary service in pursuing victory with honor in various athletics programs throughout Fairfax County. The 2017 Champions of Character Award winners were recognized at a ceremony held on October 16. Congratulations to the Dranesville District winners Teddy Dehn, Adam Knudson, Karlye Pallotta, and Claudia Peters!
Design and Environmental Achievement Award
Each year, the Fairfax County Environmental Excellence Awards recognize individuals, organizations, businesses, and County employees who dedicate time and energy to benefit the environment and support county environmental initiatives.
The McLean Citizens Association's Environment, Parks, and Recreation (EP&R) Committee and the Churchill Road Elementary School were recognized with an Environmental Excellence Award for the partnership through which EP&R sponsors the school's sixth grade EcoWeek, in cooperation with the Fairfax County Park Authority. The EcoWeek program has been designed to foster an environmental stewardship ethic among students by educating them about ecological stresses on the environment and by encouraging participation in restoration efforts, including the removal of invasive plants and the planting of native trees. The program includes classroom instruction on invasive plants, an art component, and a tree inventory.
Friends of Trees Awards
Fairfax County Tree Commission
The Friends of Trees Awards, sponsored by the Fairfax County Tree Commission, are presented to individuals, schools, youth and adult groups, and civic organizations that have volunteered time and effort to preserve, protect, or plant trees in the County.
The Great Falls Citizens Association (GFCA) was recognized with a Friends of Trees Award for the successful
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| Pictured from left: Bill Canis, GFCA President; Bob Vickers, Fairfax County Tree Commission Chair; Jim McGlone, Fairfax County Tree Commission Vice-Chair. |
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development and implementation of its Legacy White Oak Project. Bill Canis, GFCA President, created and organized the project in response to the continued loss of large white oak trees in downtown Great Falls. He helped raise funds for the effort from local citizens, purchased the trees, and determined the planting locations. In 2016, 15 white oak trees were planted at four different County sites in Great Falls. The Legacy Project has succeeded both in bringing new oak trees to Great Falls and in raising awareness and appreciation of the value and beauty of such trees in the community.
The McLean Trees Foundation (MTF) was recognized with a Friends of Trees Award for its continuing efforts to preserve, plant, and maintain trees in McLean and to educate the public on the value and benefits of trees.
MTF was incorporated in 2004 as the first and only non-profit
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Members of MTF pictured with Fairfax County Tree Commission Chair Bob Vickers and Vice-Chair Jim McGlone. |
neighborhood tree planting and educational program in Fairfax County designed specifically for homeowners. Native trees are purchased through grants and private and corporate donations. Additional trees and saplings are provided by Fairfax ReLeaf and distributed to homeowners.
In 2016, under the leadership of its former chair, Joyce Harris, MTF invested more than 1,055 volunteer hours in tree-related activities and co-sponsored the third annual Tree Forum in McLean. MTF maintains an informative and active
website with links to the Virginia Cooperative Extension program and other organizations which promote the care and benefits of a healthy tree canopy.
McLean High School Senior Sinead Eksteen Recognized
McLean High School senior Sinead Eksteen was recognized by the Board of Supervisors for winning the state championship in the 100 and 200 meter freestyle events and setting the school record in both. Sinead closed out the season by being recognized as the All-Met Female Swimmer of the Year by the Washington Post.
McLean Little League Girls All-Star Team Recognized
The McLean Little League 8-10 (left) and 9-11 (right) Girls Teams were recognized by the Board of Supervisors for their recent victories. Both teams won the Virginia State Little League All Star Tournament held in July. The 9-11 All-Star team went on to win the Southeast Region Championship over teams from Tennessee, Georgia and Florida.
McLean High School Boys Tennis Team Recognized
The McLean High School Boys Tennis Team went undefeated this year, winning 19 games and the state championship. This was the first state championship for a boys team in any sport in the school's 62-year history. Ben Keyser, a junior and Matthew Tran, a sophomore, also won the Liberty Conference, Northern Region and the State doubles championship. In singles play, each only lost to the other during the season.
McLean High School "Highlander" Wins 2017 Gold Crown from CSPA
"The Highlander" newsmagazine staff of McLean High School was presented with a Gold Crown at the Columbia Scholastic Press Association (CSPA) journalism convention at Columbia University in New York City. This is the second consecutive year that "The Highlander" has earned a Gold Crown award.
"The Highlander" is the only high school newspaper-newsmagazine in Virginia to win a Gold Crown this year. CSPA's Gold Crown is one of the highest honors in scholastic journalism. Publications are judged on design, photography, concept, coverage, and writing.
Turner Park's Roll-top Observatory Wins State Honors
The roll-top observatory at Observatory Park at Turner Farm was honored by the Virginia Recreation and Parks Society as the Best New Facility (Bricks and Mortar) in a population area greater than 100,000.
Opened in 2016, the observatory helps to expand the concept of what a park can offer, from the trees and land below to the skies above. The roll-top building includes an Orientation Room that serves as an instructional space for educational programs and an Observation Room that includes three mounted telescopes, with room for a fourth telescope as private funding becomes available. The observatory features a retractable roof that rolls over the top of the fixed roof of the Orientation Room; it is the only active observatory in 100 miles.
The non-profit Analemma Society has a partnership agreement with the Park Authority to develop recreational and educational astronomy programs at Turner Farm. The roll-top was funded through Park Bonds and generous donations from the community including Jean and Ric Edelman and the Analemma Society.
Penny Halpern Recognized as a Community Champion
Volunteer Fairfax
Supervisor Foust and Community Champion, Penny Halpern.
Each year, Community Champions from throughout Fairfax County are recognized at Volunteer Fairfax's Annual Fairfax County Volunteer Service Awards. This year, Dranesville resident, Penny Halpern, a tireless advocate for young girls and older residents, was recognized for her service. Ms. Halpern has been an active volunteer leader with the Herndon Village Network and the Girl Scout Council of the Nation's Capital.
Great Falls Volunteer Fire Department Celebrates 75 Years
Supervisor Foust joined other elected officials, Fairfax County Fire and Rescue representatives, and Great Falls Volunteer Fire Department members.
The Great Falls Volunteer Fire Department is 75 years young! Established in 1942 as the Forestville Volunteer Fire Department, an auxiliary to the McLean Volunteer Fire Department, the Great Falls Volunteer Fire Department has grown in membership, responsibility, and into a new firehouse over the last 75 years. Supervisor Foust joined other elected officials and community members to thank and congratulate the Great Falls Volunteer Fire Department for 75 years of service to the community.
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| Fairfax County is committed to nondiscrimination on the basis of disability in all county programs, services and activities. Reasonable accommodations will be provided upon request. For information, call the Dranesville District office at 703-356-0551, TTY 711. |
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| If you would like your community announcement included in Dranesville Happenings please send an email to Dranesville@FairfaxCounty.gov. |
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