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This past year has been the most eventful of my eight years as your County Supervisor. As I look back, I’m reminded of the many things I am grateful for – family, friends, health, community, the opportunity to serve you and so much more. This is also a good time to remind you that TEAM MVD is here for you all year long! Our office is your resource for everything from trash collection questions to transportation, new housing to senior services, and much more. To meet Team MVD and learn how YOUR Mount Vernon District office can help you, please join us for our Annual Holiday Open House on Thursday, December 7 from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. at the Mount Vernon Governmental Center. We will have refreshments, light snacks and are collecting food for Bucknell Elementary School families during the holidays. You can drop off donations before or at the event! Please also join us for our Annual First Hike at 10 a.m. on January 1, 2024, at Pohick Bay Regional Park in partnership with NOVA Parks.
I am also thankful to the many new businesses and residences that have opened in our area in 2023! We have held ribbon cuttings for Lidl and Brynmor Early Education and Preschool in Lorton, as well as The Arden, Belhaven and North Hill, all offering new market rate, affordable and workforce housing in Mount Vernon. We hosted several new events, along with all our continuing events, including the Taste of Mount Vernon, Back to School Community Day and a Bat Walk & Talk. Along the way, we broke ground on the Mount Vernon Rec Center renovations and opened the Mount Vernon Memorial Highway Trail, the Laurel Hill Community Gardens and the Lorton Police Station and Animal Shelter. Other notable celebrations included the Dave Evans Memorial Ball Field Dedication, the County’s First Electric Trash Truck and Connector Busses, solar panels at Woodlawn Fire Station, Fall Fest celebrating the 1st Anniversary of the Lorton Community Center, Library and Park, three ribbon cuttings for new services at INOVA Mount Vernon and dedications of both the Harper vs. the Board of Education Historic Marker in Gum Springs and the entrance wall unveiling at the Historic Randall Estates. What an incredible year of connecting with and serving you!
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In this Newsletter:
Celebrating Our Community
Upcoming Events
Land Use
Health, Housing & Human Services
Parks & Environment
In the News
Community Information
Community Links
Pet Adoption Corner
Important Safety Information
Team MVD
Boards, Authorities, Commissions
| First food drop off at Bucknell ES for our Food Drive. Featured: Maddie Alvarado and Marilyn Wilson | |
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This holiday season is a wonderful time to shop local, give local and celebrate your special occasions in our County. Our small businesses certainly appreciate you! To help with ideas and suggestions, Visit Fairfax has produced a Made In Fairfax Holiday Gift Guide and you can browse the Made in Fairfax on-line directory. To help you give locally, the County has compiled a 2023 Holiday Giving Guide of local non-profits you can support during the holiday season, and all year long.
As the year winds down, I thank each and every one of you for all you contribute to our community. While this is a time of joy and celebration for many, it is also a time of need and stress for others. A kind word, a quick visit to an elderly neighbor or a phone call to a distant friend or relative can mean so much.
Happy Holidays and Happy New Year!
Respectfully yours in public service,
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Dan Storck
Supervisor, Mount Vernon District
Fairfax County Board of Supervisors
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Celebrating Our Community | |
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Congratulations to Queenie Cox - Citizen of the Year Award
Every year Psi Alpha Alpha Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity presents a Citizen of the Year award to an outstanding citizen. Congratulations to Queenie Cox for being this year's recipient and for the all the time and energy she dedicates in the Gum Springs community.
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South County High School Women's Indoor and Outdoor Track Team Proclamations | | |
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South County High School (SCHS) Women's Track teams are proving themselves to be the best not only in our County but the whole state! In early November, I presented two proclamations to SCHS Women's Indoor Track and Outdoor Track at halftime of the South County vs. West Potomac football game.
Earlier this year, SCHS Women's Indoor Track finished as the Runner Up for the 2023 VHSL C6 Indoor Track Virginia State Championships! Additionally, relay team Jordann Germain, Catalina Sanchious, Ajayla McNeal and Cameron Thompson won first place for the 4x200m, setting a new meet record of 1:39.42. SCHS Women's Outdoor Track Team won the 2023 VHSL C6 Outdoor Track Virginia State Championships by 13.5 points! Runners also took first place in two individual events and a relay. I was pleased to recognize and celebrate the contributions of the South County Women’s Indoor and Outdoor Track teams, parents, coaches, teachers and administrators who worked hard to help these students achieve these incredible results.
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Upcoming In-Person & Virtual Events
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Lorton Community Center and Library Wins National Association for Industrial and Office Parks Award
On November 14, the Lorton Community Center and Library project received the National Association for Industrial and Office Parks (NAIOP) award in the Build-to-Suit Institutional Award of Excellence category. Congratulations to the entire project team for a successful project and a well-deserved award!
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Landscaping & Screening Proposed Zoning Ordinance Amendment
The amendment will provide for a comprehensive review of the landscaping and screening provisions of the Zoning Ordinance, including parking lot landscaping, transitional screening and barrier requirements. The Staff Report is now available for review. The Planning Commission public hearing is set for December 6 and the Board of Supervisors for January 23, 2024. If interested in commenting, please sign up to testify using the various methods outlined here.
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Lorton Core Study Plan Amendment
The culmination of the Lorton Visioning study, started in 2018, is nearing conclusion in Winter 2023/Spring 2024. This work has helped the task force to further refine and delineate the study’s core focal community area and looks at improvements the Lorton community desires by transforming the existing commercial shopping centers into more intense, mixed-use centers near transit; as well as identifying secondary, supportive areas where additional placemaking can occur. Please review past presentations to be ready for the upcoming public hearings; dates to be determined.
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Health, Housing & Human Services | |
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New Healthy Communities Dashboard
In support of the County's Strategic Plan, the County has launched a new Healthy Communities dashboard that focuses on metrics that will be monitored throughout the implementation of the County's Strategic Plan and that will inform future decision-making. Learn more.
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2023-24 Hypothermia Prevention Program
Since 2005, the Hypothermia Prevention Program has prevented death and serious injuries among Fairfax County's most vulnerable residents by ensuring that no one must sleep outside during the winter months. The program is available to any adult in need of immediate shelter. The program provides warm shelter, food and other supportive services to connect guests to a variety of basic needs including clothing, employment, housing and more. The 2023-24 Hypothermia Prevention Program will run from December 1, 2023 - March 31, 2024. Learn more.
The Mount Vernon District has 2 shelter locations participating in the program:
Eleanor Kennedy Shelter, 9155 Richmond Hwy.
Rising Hope United Methodist Church, 8220 Russell Rd.
- Phone: (703) 360-1976
- Hours: 6:30 p.m. - 7 a.m.
- Operated by: Ventures in Community Hypothermia Outreach Program
- Program Contact: Sherry Edelkamp (sedelkamp@yahoo.com)
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Urgent Need for Blood Donors – Type O Blood Donors Needed Immediately
Multiple traumatic incidents and other medical emergencies have left INOVA’s blood inventory for Type O blood critically low. All blood types are needed, but a boost to the supply of Type O will help patients in need significantly. Call 1-866-BLOODSAVES (1-866-256-6372) or visit INOVA's website to schedule an appointment.
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Park Board Grants Funding To Add Swing Set to McCutcheon Park
The Fairfax County Park Authority Board has approved matching grant funding in the amount of $13,000 to supplement community contributions toward installing swings at the playground within Gilbert S. McCutcheon Park. The applicant, the Villamay Community Association, will also contribute $13,000 to complete this project. The project is expected to be completed in spring 2024. Learn more.
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4 Reasons to Transition to Battery-Powered Leaf Blowers
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Eco-friendly: Battery-powered lawn equipment significantly reduces harm to the environment compared to their gas-powered counterparts.
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Health benefits: By eliminating emissions that can heighten respiratory conditions such as asthma, battery-powered blowers contribute to a healthier environment and improved air quality for all.
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Noise reduction: Battery-powered blowers operate at much lower decibel levels, creating a quieter and more peaceful environment for everyone.
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Cost-effective: Electric versions of lawn equipment, including leaf blowers, offer a more economical choice for both battery-powered and plug-in models.
Learn more about battery-powered leaf blowers. Tired of raking or blowing leaves every year? Consider letting them lie or mulching them with your mower directly into the turf to help insects and wildlife. Learn more.
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Fairfax County Police Department Trains New K9 Recruits
K9s are vital to helping solve crime. That’s why the Fairfax County Police Department is training new furry officers. From searching for evidence, tracking down suspects and even finding drugs, K9 teams are well-equipped before they hit the streets. The Fairfax County Police Department does K9 training every few years depending on vacancies in the unit and the age of the dog. K9s typically retire around 10 years old. Read more from Fox5 News.
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Fairfax County Gets State Funding Toward Pohick Creek Stabilization Project
Fairfax County’s desire to ensure uninterrupted wastewater collection and treatment service for Fort Belvoir is one step closer to reality thanks to a grant received from the Commonwealth of Virginia. On November 2, Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin announced the obligation of $111,500 to Fairfax County under the Virginia Military Community Infrastructure Grant Program. The Commonwealth’s grant for Fairfax County will support an overall $510,000 project to evaluate and design the stabilization of a portion of Pohick Creek near the Noman M. Cole Jr. Pollution Control Plant in Lorton. Read more from On the Move.
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New Vendors Coming to Extended McCutcheon/Mount Vernon Farmers Market
The extended season for the McCutcheon/Mount Vernon Farmers Market kicked off November 29, and several new vendors are participating through the market's December 20 closure for the winter. New vendors include: Loza Pastry, Beechwood Orchards, Pho from Home, Su-Ka Nuts, Freed's Biscuit Company and Brutto Breads. Read more from On the Move.
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Community School Safety Discussion
Monday, December 11, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Sandburg Middle School
Please join School Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid, Police Chief Kevin Davis, Senator Scott Surovell, School Board Members Karen Corbett Sanders and Tamara Derenak Kaufax and myself for a community discussion about gun safety, threats and the County and school response to recent events.
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Boots to Suits Donations
The South Fairfax Chamber of Commerce recently donated dozens of clothing items to Boots to Suits which provides veterans with two complimentary career outfits, enabling them to look and feel their best for job interviews and non-military work. The donations were collected within a three hour time span at the Chamber's STIR - Salute to Veterans event. Thank you to the Chamber for supporting our veterans transitioning from military life to civilian careers!
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Resources for Small Business Owners
Are you considering starting a business or expanding your business? Use the step-by-step guide to get you started. Learn more. Need permits? Start here.
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Mount Vernon High School Choir Singing Carols
Thursday, December 7, 2023 from 4-5 p.m.
Sherwood Regional Library, 2501 Sherwood Hall Ln.
It's the holiday season! The Mount Vernon High School Choir will be singing carols at Sherwood Regional Library to get the community excited for the holidays. This is a free event, but you must register. Register today.
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Professional Certificates for High School Students
The FCPS Student Pilot Program with Coursera allows high school students to access the contents of the Coursera Career Academy, including more than 29 professional certificates from the world’s leading companies. A limited number of seats are still available. Students can explore popular digital jobs and career paths such as marketing and data science, and learn from experts at leading companies including Google. Interested students should complete the Coursera Student Interest Form. Once it is submitted, their parent/guardian will be contacted for consent. Contact Program Manager Scott Simmons with any questions at sfsimmons@fcps.edu.
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Holiday Markets and Activities
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Below are community links to local groups, organizations, school news and more. Click the links to learn more and sign up for their newsletters.
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Meet Danny Mac
Danny Mac is a cool cat ready to strut his stuff in his new home! He is 1 year old and a Domestic Shorthair/Mix. This international kitty hopped borders just to be here. Danny Mac flew over with several other cats all the way from Cuba through Operation Get-Meow so that they could all find homes with a warm ray of sunshine to nap in and some extra love to give! Danny Mac is still getting used to his new surroundings and will need a home that can show him some patience as he adjusts. With some love, care and- of course- treats, we have hope Danny Mac will settle down in no time!
Danny Mac is currently available at the Lorton Campus, if you would like to meet him or any of the adoptable pets at the Fairfax County Animal Shelter, visit during open hours! For more info on the adoption process, including requirements and fees, click here.
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Important Safety Information | |
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Code Compliance - Who is DCC?
The Department of Code Compliance (DCC) was formed in 2010, but not everyone in the County knows about this agency. Here is some information that may be helpful:
- The DCC website includes information about our enforcement activities, how to contact DCC, as well as links to previous editions of Code Compliance Corner.
- DCC enforces various rules related to land use and the maintenance of structures and properties. With the exception of the Illegal Sign Removal Program, DCC operates on a complaint-only basis.
- DCC strives to inform the public about regulations they enforce and seek voluntary compliance when there is a violation. DCC may pursue legal actions, including fines, if violations aren’t corrected voluntarily.
- Over the last year, the most common violations found by DCC have been construction without required permits or inspections, outdoor storage and grass height. Links to information about each of these topics and how to be in compliance can be found on the DCC website.
- DCC has a new flyer with more information about the department, including how they investigate and address violations.
If you have questions, want to make a report or if you are the subject of enforcement and need to contact DCC, you can report problems online, reach them via email, phone (703-324-1300 / TTY 711) or visit in person at 12055 Government Center Parkway, Suite 1016, Fairfax. Learn more.
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10 Safety Tips for Online Transactions
It's the holiday shopping season and online marketplaces offer a convenient way to purchase items, but there are steps to ensure that a good deal isn’t a scam. Learn more.
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Mount Vernon District Staff (top row left to right): Peyton Smith, Christine Morin, Supervisor Dan Storck, Nick Rinehart (bottom row left to right) Cassidy Donaghy, Maddie Alvarado, Camela Speer, Volunteer Shirley Short. | |
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Whether you need a free notary, a "Slow Down" yard sign, Mosquito Dunks or you would like to reserve meeting space in the Mount Vernon Governmental Center -- my office offers all this at no cost to you. Have road maintenance requests, zoning questions or environmental concerns? Stop by the Mount Vernon District Office anytime during our office hours, call or email us. We are here to help!
Stop by and visit the information tables outside my office for everything happening in the District. From flyers for upcoming events, bike route maps, newspapers and much more, this center is free and available 24/7!
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November 2023 Activities:
- Phone calls: 1007
- Meetings: 156
Stay Connected:
Mount Vernon Governmental Center
2511 Parkers Lane
Mount Vernon, VA 22306
703-780-7518 (TTY 711) 703-780-1491 (fax)
mtvernon@fairfaxcounty.gov
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Office Hours
Monday - Wednesday, Friday:
8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Thursday: 8:30 a.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Second Saturday Each Month (Except August)
Lorton Library: 9 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
MV District Office: 12:30 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Walk-ins and by appointment
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Update from Mount Vernon School Board Member Karen Corbett Sanders
Please read my partner on the corridor School Board Member Karen Corbett Sanders' latest newsletter for an update on Fairfax County Public Schools.
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Boards, Authorities and Commissions | |
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Help serve your community by serving on a Fairfax County Board, Authority or Commission (BAC). Please ask your friends, neighbors and community members if they are willing to help serve Fairfax County.
Commission for Women
To promote the full equality of women and girls in Fairfax County.
Board of Building and Fire Prevention Code Appeals (At-Large Members Needed)
Pursuant to County Code Section 61-2-1, to act on applications for appeals from Building Official, Fire Official or Property maintenance Code Official decisions based on the VUSBC, the VSFPC, the Virginia Amusement Device Regulations (VADR) and Chapters 61, 64, 65, and 66 of the County Code as specified.
There are several At-Large positions available as of November 2023 on County BACs.
- Affordable Dwelling Unit Advisory Board (Lending Institution Representative)
- Board of Building and Fire Prevention Code Appeals (Alternate & Design Professional)
- Board of Equalization of Real Estate (Professional)
- Consumer Protection Commission
- Engineering Standard Review Committee
- Health Systems Agency Board
- History Commission
- Police Civilian Review Panel
- Tenant-Landlord Commission (Citizen, Condo Owner, Landlord, Tenant
- Trespass Towing Advisory Board
- Uniformed Retirement System Board of Trustees
Learn more about any of these BACs...
Volunteering on these committees increases citizen participation in our District. If you are interested in serving on a County board, authority, commission or committee (BAC), please provide a current résumé to mtvernon@fairfaxcounty.gov. For more information, please download the brochure for a brief guide to BACs, or learn more on the County website. You can also check out the County's Volunteer Management System for information on these and other volunteer opportunities near you.
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Para subscribirse para nuestro boletín en español o si conoce a alguien quien quiera subscribirse, o para hablar con un hispanohablante, comuníquese con Madeleine Alvarado a su preferencia, por teléfono al (703) 780-7518 o por correo electrónico: Madeleine.CarcamoReyes@fairfaxcounty.gov. | |
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Adult Protective Services
(703) 324-7450, TTY 703-449-1186
Aging, Disability & Caregiver Resource Line
(703) 324-7948, TTY 711
Child Protective Services (24/7)
(703) 324-7400, TTY 703-222-9452
Domestic & Sexual Violence (24/7)
(703) 360-7273, TTY 711
Emergency & Basic Needs
(703) 222-0880, TTY 711
Emergency Mental Health (24/7)
(703) 573-5679, TTY 711
Fairfax County Emergency Information Line
(703) 817-7771, TTY 711
Fairfax Water Emergency Line
(703) 698-5613
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Fire Code-Related Questions
(703) 246-4849, TTY 711
Fraud Hotline
(703) 787-3243
Police Non-Emergency Line
(703) 691-2131
Roads: VDOT (Virginia Department of Transportation)
1 (800) FOR-ROAD or 1 (800) 367-7623, TTY 711
Suicide Prevention (24/7)
Call: (703) 527-4077
Text: "CONNECT" to 85511
Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board 24/7 Lines
Emergency Services: (703) 573-5679
Fairfax Detoxification Center: (703) 502-7000
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