Politics

Wiehle-Reston East Opens for Metro Riders

Fairfax County holds open house at Reston garage.

Fairfax County held an open house at the Wiehle-Reston East Garage on July 19 to show potential Metro riders access and parking options.

Change of Command

Two Oakton natives assume new duties.

Rear Adm. Charlie Williams, who was born and raised in Oakton, relieved Rear Adm. Cindy Thebaud as commander, Logistics Group Western Pacific (COMLOG WESTPAC) during a change of command ceremony, July 1.

Residents Comment on Maple Avenue Corridor

Tell Town Council the pros and cons of what’s proposed.

At the July 7 public hearing for Vienna’s proposed Maple Avenue Corridor (MAC) zoning district, people spoke both for and against the project.

Plan to Enhance Maple Avenue

Public hearing held on proposed, new zoning district.

On July 7, the Town Council held part one of a two-part public hearing on the proposed, new district for commercial property along Maple Avenue. Part two is set for Aug. 18.

Funding Plan Emerges for Streetcar Project

County Board forgoes federal funds to expedite Columbia Pike project.

When federal officials denied Arlington County's request for a Small Starts grant, advocates for the streetcar project went back to the drawing board. Now the three Arlington County Board members who support the $300 million project say they will forgo federal funds altogether, using state money set aside for transportation.

News Briefs: Debate in 48th District Race

The two candidates seeking to represent Arlington and McLean in the House of Delegates have agreed to two debates before the Aug. 19 special election.

Celebrating the ‘Best of Braddock’

Braddock District residents honored for service.

From 10-year-old Rohil Bhinge, who helped raise funds to complete a handicap accessible playground, to Norma Heck, who was one of the first five homeowners of North Springfield in 1955, the Braddock District is full of exceptional citizens.

Fairfax School Board Elects Chairman, Vice Chair

Tamara Derenak Kaufax and Ted Velkoff elected to lead Board.

Tamara Derenak Kaufax (Lee District) and Ted Velkoff (at-large) were elected chairman and vice chair of the Fairfax County School Board on Thursday night, July 10, following an abstention from some members in the election of chairman. Both will serve in their positions for one year.

Commentary: Sharing Vision of the Future

The selection of the chair of the Planning Board is an important responsibility of the County Council — and of mine. One I take very, very seriously. The Planning Board is one of the most important institutions in our county government. Its guidance on the future of our county and the manner in which it performs its responsibilities play a key role in shaping our quality of life.

Alexandria to Purchase Storied Waterfront Properties for $5 Million

Sale expected to seal Boat Club deal and open key part of waterfront.

City officials are on the verge of finalizing the sale of two slices of waterfront property, a $5 million purchase years in the making that will help seal a deal with the Old Dominion Boat Club and open up a key part of the waterfront to the public.

New Town Council, New Fiscal Year

Council approves reserves for future, current projects.

The fiscal year ends June 30, said town Director of Finance Mary Tuohy, and the town council is asked every year to review and approve reserving money not used in the previous budget for ongoing or upcoming projects.

Neighbors Object to Follin Lane Project

They say it’ll result in a ‘clear and present danger.’

The $2 million road project consists of reconstructing Follin, widening it and installing sidewalks, storm drains, curbs and gutters.

Governor McAuliffe Signs into Law Legislation for Military

Governor Terry McAuliffe and Virginia Secretary of Veterans and Defense Affairs, Admiral John Harvey held a special ceremony last week to sign into law several pieces of legislation affecting the military community.

School Board Decreases Suspension Time

Student Rights and Responsibilities revised.

Starting this fall, suspensions for certain student offenses in Fairfax County will decrease, thanks to a revision of the school system’s Student Rights and Responsibilities [SR&R]. The school board voted unanimously at the end of June to change the discipline handbook, which will now focus on in school suspensions to preserve time in school. Offenses that come with mandatory punishments are decreased under the updated handbook.

Fairfax Updates Green Building Policy

New policy is result of new technology for green rating systems.

The green building policy in Fairfax has been updated, requiring higher standards for residential, retail, office and other construction projects seeking approval for rezoning in the county.

The Connection