The Board of Supervisors met yesterday, Dec. 5. You can review the Board Package (PDF) and watch the meeting. It was the last meeting of the current Board and we wished farewell to retiring Mason District Supervisor Penny Gross and Dranesville District Supervisor John Foust. I am grateful to have served with both, and for their many years of service to Fairfax County. We also recognized retiring state officials, including Delegate Ken Plum (photo). Ken is leaving an outstanding legacy of public service to Reston, Fairfax County and Virginia.

Meeting highlights included My Board Matters:

• Authorization of Comprehensive Plan Amendment for Roger Bacon Drive properties in Reston and the removal of the Brookfield Plan Amendment from the Comprehensive Plan Amendment Work Program
• Authorization for County Staff to Discuss Options for Future of Vienna Water with Town Officials

A new Board of Supervisors will be inaugurated on Dec. 13, and everyone is invited to attend. The next Board meeting is scheduled for Jan. 21, 2024.

Hunter Mill Land Use Committee Virtual Meeting: Tuesday, Dec. 12, 7:30 p.m.

The Hunter Mill Land Use Committee Meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, Dec. 12 at 7:30 p.m. Use this link to attend and participate. You may also call in and listen to the meeting, dial 571-429-5982 and use conference call ID: 362 956 349# For more information email huntermill@fairfaxcounty.gov or call 703-478-0283. 

Holiday Celebration Dec. 8

Celebrate the holidays at the Mayor and Town Council Holiday Reception, Friday, Dec. 8, 4 to 6 p.m. in the Chambers at Town Hall, 127 Center St. South. Enjoy refreshments and entertainment by the James Madison High School Madrigals and the Vienna Community Band.

Fairfax County Police Department Announcement

The Fairfax County Police Department is ramping up DUI (driving under the influence) enforcement to ensure safe roads during the holidays. Through Dec. 29, the DUI Enforcement Squad is increasing its presence on county roads to promote sober driving, and pinpoint and remove impaired drivers.

Here are some steps you can take:

• Don’t drink and drive: If you’ve been drinking, do not get behind the wheel.
• Plan ahead: If you plan to consume alcohol, arrange for a designated driver, use a ride-sharing service, or take a taxi.
• Help friends and family: If you are with someone who has been drinking, do not allow them to drive and assist in arranging a sober ride for them.
• Be a responsible party hosts: If you are hosting an event where alcohol is served, ensure that your guests leave with a sober driver.
• Report impaired drivers: While on the road, if you suspect someone is driving under the influence, please report them by calling 9-1-1 for emergencies or non-emergency dispatch at 703-691-2131.
• It is crucial for parents to have conversations with their children about the dangers of impaired driving.

Learn more.

Support Cornerstones Holiday Drive with Gift Cards

Cornerstones is seeking to provide parents of nearly 1,400 children with gift cards to allow them to purchase holiday gifts this year. If you are able, please consider donating. A donation of $50 or more will guarantee at least one more child will receive some holiday cheer this year. Learn more.

5 Ways Parents and Caregivers can Lower Their Stress

Especially during the holidays, parents and caregivers are often tempted to put other’s critical needs ahead of their own, so what might be a fleeting stressor, can compound over time. When the stress becomes long-term or chronic, it can make a serious impact on your physical and mental state. The county's Department of Family Services has put together these five stress-reducing tactics.

How to Help Your Neighbors in Hunter Mill

A summary of local nonprofits in Hunter Mill District with links to needs, events and resources.

Empty the Shelters – Holiday Hope Adoption Event Dec. 8-10

Fairfax County Animal Shelter wants all shelter pets to find loving homes for the holidays, so it’s partnering with BISSELL Pet Foundation for the “Empty the Shelters – Holiday Hope” adoption event. The shelter will offer fee-waived adoptions for cats and dogs from Friday, Dec. 8 through Sunday, Dec.10. Learn more.

RCC Registration Open for Winter/Spring Programs

Registration for RCC’s winter/spring programs is now open for Reston residents and employees. On Dec. 8, non-Reston residents will be able to register. Visit myRCC to register for exciting programs, classes, and trips.

Study Analyzes Virginia’s K-12 Education Funding

According to a new study conducted by the Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission (JLARC), Virginia school divisions are underfunded in large part due to flaws and inadequacies in the state’s Standards of Quality (SOQ) funding formula. Learn more.