Fairfax City News: Aug. 1

City of Fairfax, Virginia sent this bulletin at 08/01/2024 07:00 PM EDT

City Clips - Aug. 1

Our Elementary School Students Have Been Promoted (video)

Our elementary students are moving on to middle school. Hear their reflections and celebrate their accomplishment. Watch video.

Virginia Sales Tax Holiday is Aug. 2-4

During the 2024 sales tax holiday on Aug. 2-4, you can buy qualifying school supplies, clothing, footwear, hurricane and emergency preparedness items, and Energy Star™ and WaterSense™ products without paying sales tax.

Savings are applied when you shop online, in-store, or by mail or phone.

Learn more.

Please Be "Water Wise" to Reduce Water Usage

A drought watch has been declared. Please take measures to conserve water at home and work. The drought watch precedes a drought warning, when water restrictions could become mandatory.

Here are some simple tips you can use to optimize indoor and outdoor water use:

Monitor watering lawns, plants and shrubs.
Sweep sidewalks and driveways (instead of using a hose).
Avoid washing your car, or instead use a commercial car wash that recycles water.
Fix any plumbing leaks – especially toilets and faucets.
Reduce shower length.
Turn off water while brushing your teeth.
Wash full loads of dishes and clothes.

See the complete list of water conservation tips at https://www.fairfaxwater.org/conservation

Make Ice Cream at Historic Blenheim’s Dairy Day, Aug. 8

Before Historic Blenheim became a popular destination for 19^th-century history enthusiasts and modern-day wedding planners, the Willcoxon family ran a dairy farm on the property.

From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Aug. 8, learn about the former dairy farm and have fun making ice cream and butter. Admission is free to attend Dairy Day.

Registration is required for each person making ice cream. For more information, call 703-591-0560.

Register to Make Ice Cream

Watch Highlights from the Urban Forest Master Plan Kickoff Meeting (tap image)

On July 25, 2024, Fairfax City held a kickoff meeting at the Sherwood Center for the Urban Forest Master Plan project. Attendees browsed exhibits and talked with the project team. Learn more on Engage Fairfax.

City Seeks Applicants for New Housing and Healthy Communities Advisory Board

At its July 23, 2024, meeting, the Fairfax City Council voted to establish the Housing and Healthy Communities Advisory Board.

This new 17-member board will advise and assist the city council and city staff on strategies, policies, practices, programs, services, and budget allocations to address housing, homelessness, and a healthy community. City residents with an interest in tackling these challenges are encouraged to apply online.

Andy's Pizza Opens at Point 50 Shopping Center (video)

Andy's Pizza ribbon-cutting ceremony video

The city celebrated the opening of Andy's Pizza with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on July 18. Watch the video.

Council Reporter for the July 23 Meeting

The Council Reporter for the July 23 meeting includes video segments linked to agenda items. View the Reporter. A summary of the meeting is provided below.

Fire chief John O’Neal acknowledged the fire department for achieving the American Heart Association Mission: Lifeline EMS Recognition Award for cardiac and stroke care.
Mayor Catherine Read presented proclamations acknowledging the month of July as Disability Pride Month and the week of July 25-31 as Shop Local Week.
City Council approved the creation of the Housing and Healthy Communities Advisory Board. This new 17-member board will advise and assist the city council and city staff on strategies, policies, practices, programs, services, and budget allocations to address housing, homelessness, and a healthy community. Learn more and apply online.
City Council adopted a resolution approving the city’s participation in the proposed settlement of opioid-related claims against Kroger and its related entities and authorizing and directing the execution of any documentation necessary to effectuate the city’s participation in the settlements. The city, along with more than 75 other Virginia localities, has been engaged in litigation against various entities involved in the manufacturing chain, sale, and distribution of opioid products.
City Council approved the introduction of an ordinance amending Chapter 2 (Administration) of the City Code pertaining to the position of acting city manager.

Public Hearings

City Council adopted the Fairfax Circle Small Area Plan. View the presentation.
City Council approved a resolution approving the purchase of the GMUF Commerce Buildings, LLC, located at 4085-4087 University Dr. in connection with the planned relocation of Fire Station 3.

Work Session

City Council discussed the development of the city’s green building policy. View the presentation.
City Council discussed the composting program assessment scope of work. View the presentation.
City Council discussed zoning for accessory dwelling units. View the presentation.

A city council work session is slated for Sept 3. View the agenda (subject to change).

Meetings are held at 7 p.m. on Tuesday nights in City Hall. Watch meetings live on Channel 12 (COX/Verizon) and online, or catch a replay at 10 a.m. or 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

Final Police Officer Recruiting Event, Aug. 28

Join the City of Fairfax Police Department as a full-time or temporary sworn police officer.

Discover what the city police department can offer you at the final recruiting event scheduled this summer at the City of Fairfax Police Station.

Reserve your space:

Wednesday Aug. 28• 5-7 p.m.

This events provides a great opportunity for potential candidates to learn more about the city police department, meet some of our officers, and gain insight into a rewarding career in law enforcement.

Learn more and make a reservation.

Crime and Arrest Reports and Police Jobs