Coles District Newsletter SUPERVISOR YESLI VEGA
November & December 2020 10th Edition
Dear Neighbor,
It’s almost the end of the year and that means the holiday season is in full swing. This can be a very hectic time of year but as we transition from Thanksgiving to Christmas and other reflective holy times I hope we can all find some quiet moments to give thanks and bask in the peace and joy of that which is most important to us. The work of your county government continues which we’ll highlight in this double issue of the Coles District Newsletter. A couple of big land use cases in the district were deferred, though it appears some may be coming forward in the first quarter of next year. Stay tuned. Law enforcement was also very much in the news as we hired a new Chief of Police. We also saw a spike of high profile gang busts and homicides, and the Strategic Plan Development Team initiated a debate over taking away some funding for the police. I hope you’ll enjoy this even more packed than usual double November/December Edition of the Coles District Newsletter. And from my family to yours, Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!
For Coles,
Yesli Vega /ColesDistrict
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
Table of Contents
Kline Farm Development Deferred & Preserve at Long Branch Deferred ...... 4
Upcoming Coles Land Use Cases ...... 5
Key Planning Commission Meetings in December ...... 6
Police Blotter: Board Objects to Striking ‘Defund the Police’ Language from Strategic Plan ...... 7
Police Blotter: Prince William Police Department 235 Officers Short of Standards ...... 8
Police Blotter: 12 MS-13 Gang Members Charged In Connection with Death of Four PWC Residents ...... 9
Police Blotter: 12 MS-13 Gang Members Charged (Continued) ...... 10
Police Blotter: Life sentence issued in gang-related killing in Nokesville ...... 11
Police Blotter: Gang members indicted in murder in Charlottesville, two murder attempts in PWC ...... 12
Police Blotter: Jail To Lose ~$100k Due to End of Fed Partnership & CA Drops Riot Charges ...... 13
Police Blotter: Double Homicides in Woodbridge...... 14
Police Blotter: Prince William Hires Peter Newsham as New Police Chief ...... 15
Police Blotter: The Next Recruiting Open House is Scheduled for December 5 ...... 16
Police Blotter: PWC Enhances 9-1-1 Services and Emergency Notification with Smart911 ...... 17
Sup Vega Donates Office Savings & Meet the Board Video...... 18
Strategic Plan Update ...... 19
Strategic Plan Update (Continued) ...... 20
Prince William County Voter Turnout Percentage Declines from 2016, Well Short of Expectations ...... 21
County Releases Results of Planning Director Survey ...... 22
Sup Vega Directive to Protect Water from Occoquan Reservoir & Yorkshire Trash Pick Up Options ...... 23
COVID-19 Vaccine Development & Hospitalizations from Coronavirus Remain Low in PWC ...... 24
Northam’s New Lockdown / Record Tourism in 2019 / Unemployment in County Declines ...... 25
How COVID-19 Relief Funds Received By County Will Be Spent ...... 26
Community Feeding Taskforce Continues to Serve & PWC Offering Child Care Scholarships ...... 27
Parents Allowed to Send Some Younger Students Back to School Part Time ...... 28
PWEA Protests Reopening Schools ...... 29
School Board Defies Will of Residents on School Calendar ...... 30
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
Table of Contents
Schools Begin Search for New Superintendent & School’s Missed Opportunity to Save Money ...... 31
Sup Candland’s Resolution to Define Equity in Housing and Env Concepts in Land Use Defeated ...... 32
Supervisor Vega Attends Reopening of New Central Library ...... 33
Supervisor Vega Questions County’s Use of Term ‘Latinx’ ...... 34
Legislative Affairs Update ...... 35
Legislative Affairs Update (Continued) ...... 36
Parks Department Earns Accreditation from the National Recreation and Parks Association...... 37
Sup Vega Meets Solar Panel Advocates / Greater PW Trails Coalition / Turf Replacement at Hellwig ...... 38
Woodbine Cemetery Update & Supervisor Vega Tours Mooney Wastewater Treatment Plant ...... 39
Volunteer Businesses Ambassadors Needed & Temporary Activity Permits ...... 40
“Rebuild! VA” Grants / Construction and Renovation Permit Rebate / ELEVATE Program ...... 41
Dev Services helps 250 Startups, Entrepreneurs Open & Simpler PPP Forgiveness for Loans ...... 42
County Landfill Update / Development Services Drop-Off / Deadline Extended for Real Estate Taxes ...... 43
Sup Vega Recognizes Indian American Heritage Month & Anniversary of Attacks on Pearl Harbor ...... 44
Dog Licensing Program Changes ...... 45
Inova Hosts Free Flu Shot Clinics for the Uninsured...... 46
Wreaths Across America at Quantico Cemetery & Salvation Army Christmas Kettle ...... 47
Un-Trim-A-Tree Holiday Gift Program / Toys for Tots / Bull Run Festival of Lights ...... 48
Tom Smith Becomes Director of Public Works & Joe Gilkerson Becomes Director of HR ...... 49
VRE Welcomes Back Riders & Matt Villareale Becomes Director of Facilities and Fleet Management ...... 50
Cat Saved From Tree & Prince William County Creates ‘Racial and Social Justice Commission’ ...... 51
Board / Commission / Committee Meetings ...... 52
Board of County Supervisors Meetings - October, November, December ...... 53
Contact Information: Board of Supervisors & School Board ...... 54
Contact Information: Supervisor Vega’s Citizen Appointments...... 55
Contact Information: Statewide Officials, State Senate & House of Delegates ...... 56
Contact Information: U.S. Senate / U.S. House / County Departments ...... 57
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
Kline Farm Development Deferred
On November 10th, Stanley Martin Homes requested a deferral of their Standard Use Permit, CPA, and Rezoning of the Kline property scheduled to go before the Board on November 17th. The deferral request was to “a date uncertain.” The deferred plan would have placed 251 new housing units in addition to 145,000 square feet of commercial space at the busy intersection of Prince William Parkway and Liberia Avenue. According to VDOT estimates, the proposed plan would have added nearly 12,000 more car trips per day along heavily trafficked roads like the Prince William Parkway, Wellington Road, and Liberia Avenue, in addition to Yates and Davis Ford Road’s. Other issues related to the density included the degradation of neighboring wells and the added strain on the County’s public school system. In 2019, Prince William County Schools stated its opposition to the plan because of the negative impact it would have had on school overcrowding. Over 9,000 residents signed a change.org petition opposing the project. Because of the issues stemming from the plan’s density, Supervisor Vega opposed the since deferred proposal. “Given the massive community opposition to this proposal and the negative impact it would have had on the quality of life for our existing residents here in the County, I hope Stanley Martin, if retained by the applicant, will come back to us with a much more humble plan. One that gains the support of the surrounding community,” Vega said.
- Coles District Staff
Preserve at Long Branch Deferred
On the Friday afternoon before its scheduled hearing, the Preserve at Long Branch CPA and Rezoning (formerly known as Mid-County Park and Estates) was deferred at the request of the applicant. The latest iteration of the plan would have removed hundreds of acres from the Rural Crescent to build 100 homes on 147 acres. The public opposition to this reduction of acreage in the Rural Crescent was fierce. Out of over 700 emails received by the Coles District Office on the topic, 97% of County residents expressed opposition to the plan, with many claiming this would set the precedent for future alterations to the rural boundary. In July, the Planning Commission recommended denial of the plan on a 6-1 vote. While Supervisor Vega was pleased with the deferral request because of its impact on the rural crescent, she urged caution, noting that the current Board could soon vote to change the boundaries and rules governing the rural crescent.
- Coles District Staff
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
Upcoming Coles Land Use Cases
The Preserve at Long Branch The Preserve at Long Branch, formerly known as Mid County Park and Estates. Would amend the Comprehensive Plan to rezone several hundred acres out of the Rural Crescent to build one hundred homes with sewer in addition to open space and a park. Located off of 234 East/ Dumfries Rd, behind Canova Dr. UPDATE: RECOMMENDED DENIAL BY PLANNING COMMISSION 6-1-1 (7/29). UPDATE: HEARING DEFERRAL REQUESTED (10/16). UPDATE: MAY BE BROUGHT BACK FOR A HEARING FIRST QUARTER OF 2021. Please click here to view the case under “Pending”.
Dar Al Noor Mosque Expansion The Dar Al-Noor Mosque, located on Hoadly Road between Purcell Road and the Parkway, is re- questing a Special Use Permit to expand its current 12,000 square foot structure to 88,276 feet. The expansion would include three stories with a basement, along with an updated prayer hall, a multi-purpose banquet hall, a youth and senior center, meeting rooms, play areas, daycare, a private school for 200 students, and an auditorium. The expansion may also include a medical center. The Special Use Permit would allow the applicant to increase its number of prayer rugs from 502 to 1,782, resulting in an increase of daily vehicle trips from 1,761 to 6,250 according to county esti- mates. UPDATE: CASE MAY BE HEARD BY THE BOARD FIRST QUARTER OF 2021. Please click here to view the case under “Under Review”.
Kline Farm Development Located at the corner of Liberia Avenue & the Parkway to Buckhall Road (South/Southeast). Would rezone 92.19 acres from A-1 Agricultural to Planned Business District, Planned Mixed Residential, and Semi-Rural Residential Cluster to develop mixed residential, retail, commercial, office, and recreational uses. A mixture of up to 250 multi-family townhomes and single family detached residential dwellings surrounding a 145,000 square foot commercial center are being proposed. Twenty-four acres would be devoted to a new school or parkland. In addition, the Comprehensive Plan would be amended for up to forty-nine acres, and a Special Use Permit needed for a CVS pharmacy with a drive through which would also be built. The development would add an additional 11,500 vehicle trips per day to area roads according to VDOT. Please click here to view the case under “Pending UPDATE: HEARING DEFERRAL REQUESTED (10/10).
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
Key Planning Commission Meetings in December
The Planning Commission will have a busy schedule, discussing several important plans in December, including:
12/2 - Rural Area Preservation Study Work Session (6pm, 1 County Complex Court) While residents are not allowed to speak, this is an important meeting to learn more about what your planning commissioners are thinking about the future of the Rural Crescent. Many residents in the County fear this could be the beginning of changes to the rural boundary and ordinances governing the Rural Crescent.
12/9 - Independent Hill Small Area Plan (7pm, 1 County Complex Court) Staff has reduced the number of homes in the plan along the semi-Rural stretch of 234. However, as of today, the plan would still remove 40 acres out of the Rural Crescent for Public/Office Space close to the Prince William National Forest for a potential data center.
12/16 - Agritourism and Arts Overlay District (7pm, 1 County Complex Court) A vote on approval of the of the Agritourism and Arts Overlay District. The purpose of the Agritourism and Arts Overlay District is to facilitate investment involving improvements to land and structures within the district while encouraging agricultural and small business, artistic (including music & performing arts) uses.
- Coles District Staff
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
Police Blotter
Board Objects to Striking ‘Defund the Police’ Language from County Strategic Plan Documents
Resolution Fails Along Party Lines Despite Massive Community Support for Removing Language
On December 1st, the Board of County Supervisors rejected Supervisor Pete Candland’s resolution to instruct the 2021-2024 Strategic Plan team to remove all instances of “reallocating” or “defunding” of the Prince William County police budget from Strategic Plan documents. In October, the Board was briefed by the Strategic Plan Team on “key themes” in focus areas based on feedback they claimed was received by county residents from an online community survey and community meetings held over the summer. According to the survey results, 68.2% of County residents said “Safe and Secure Communities” was important to them, the highest ranking amongst thirteen options. You can view the survey and results here. Surprisingly, the Strategic Plan Team took away from this that the “reallocation of some police funding to social services” was one of three “key themes” under “Safe and Secure Communities.” In addition to compiling information from the survey and community meetings, open ended community comments were solicited as well. Support for law enforcement/police funding outnumbered opposition to law enforcement/defunding nearly 20:1 as you can see here. In response to a question of why the “defund” type language was included, Kaye Wallace, the head of the Country Strategic Plan Team claimed that feedback for and against police were “equal.” The blatant falsehood of Wallace’s claim was later admitted by county government, which prompted Candland’s resolution to strike such language from the Strategic Plan. Supervisor Vega’s office received over 700 emails on the resolution between Thanksgiving and the December 1st Board meeting. Between 90%-95% of emails received from county residents backed Candland’s resolution to strike the language. In the end, the efforts to remove the dangerous language from the plan were for nothing as the Board majority voted to keep the language in the Strategic Plan Development Team documents.
- Coles District Staff
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
Police Blotter
Prince William Police Department 235 Officers Short of Standards
Far Below Virginia Average, Last in Police Officers Per Capita Compared to 50 State Average
Despite calls to defund or reallocate police budgets, an inquiry by Supervisor Pete Candland revealed that the County’s police force is lagging far behind the level of service standards called for in Prince William County’s Comprehensive Plan. According to the Office of Management and Budget, Prince William County’s Comprehensive Plan calls for a ratio of two officers per 1,000 residents. Based on a projected 2020 total of approximately 467,900 (Council of Governments Projection), 936 sworn officers are needed to match the County’s level of service standard. However, the County currently only has 701 sworn officers in its FY2021 budget, a ratio of 1.5 officers per 1,000 residents. Falling 235 officers shy of fulfilling the obligation stated in the Comprehensive Plan. According to the FBI, the Commonwealth of Virginia has an average of 2.3 officers per 1,000. If Prince William County were a state, it would have the lowest number of police officers of any state in the Country. Oregon and Washington State currently have the fewest police officers of any state in the Country at 1.6 per 1,000. Supervisor Vega, while not surprised Prince William’s police force lagged behind the Virginia average, was surprised that the number of sworn officers put us at the bottom nationally. “This is a shocking development and one that should concern every Prince William County resident, particularly in light of the County Strategic Plan Team’s recommendation to the Board that we should consider reallocating portions of the police budget away from them. With so few police officers in our streets and neighborhoods already, we must never jeopardize our residents safety by giving in to the calls of a radical minority with even greater cuts.”
- Coles District Staff
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
Police Blotter
12 MS-13 Gang Members Charged In Connection with the Death of Four Prince William County Residents
On Oct. 8th, Prince William County Police – in a joint investigation with the Northern Virginia Gang Task Force (NVGTF) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Washington Field Office’s Safe Streets/HIDTA Task Force-Northern Virginia – conducted an operation which charged multiple suspected gang members in connection to criminal narcotics trafficking and to the murders of four men in Prince William County in 2019. All suspects were members of, or are otherwise connected to, the “Sitios Locos Salvatruchas” clique of the transnational criminal street gang Mara Salvatrucha, commonly known as MS-13. Based on the success of this operation, law enforcement authorities were able to dismantle this clique, which was shown to have violent tendencies including murder and which targeted Hispanic residents through narcotics distribution. In conjunction with the Prince William County Commonwealth Attorney’s Office, multiple individuals were charged in connection to the narcotics enterprise and in the following homicide investigations. On June 22, 2019, detectives responded to the area of Featherstone Road and Blackburn Road in Woodbridge to investigate a double murder. The two victims – identified as Milton Beltran LOPEZ, 40, and Jairo Geremeas MAYORGA, 39 – were found deceased from apparent gunshot wounds in a wooded area near the location. One suspect was previously identified in the investigation and was charged with murder in November 2019. Two other suspects were also charged with offenses connected to the deaths in early- to mid -2020. On Aug. 29, 2019, detectives began the investigation into the murder of Eric Lanier TATE II, 25, who was shot and killed in the area of Bel Air Road and Jeffries Road in Woodbridge. Detectives also investigated the shooting death of Antonio Kaoul SMITH, 37, which occurred in the 3100 block of Chesapeake Drive in Dumfries on Sept. 24, 2019. No previous arrests were made in connection to the murders of TATE and SMITH.
Continued...
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
Police Blotter
12 MS-13 Gang Members Charged In Connection with the Death of Four Prince William County Residents (Continued)
Identifying the suspects in the murders was due to the collaborative effort of the Department’s Gang Unit, the NVGTF and the FBI, which also ultimately connected these violent gang members to large-scale narcotics trafficking in the region. Following the June 2019 double murder, homicide detectives sought the assistance of these resources to develop information on possible suspects involved. Through the extensive investigation, which lasted several months, law enforcement was able to build a case in the narcotics trafficking element which involved cocaine being transported from the New York area to Prince William County where it was then sold during street-level transactions. The suspects used this trafficking as a primary source of income for their clique. To further the suspect’s standing within MS-13 itself, victims were targeted at random and murdered, posing a significant safety concern in this community. These victims included MAYORGA, TATE, and SMITH as no other connection between the suspects or criminal activity was identified during the investigation. As the investigation into the deaths and narcotics trafficking continued detectives linked several suspects to one, if not more, of the murders. As a result of the investigations, and in coordination with the Commonwealth Attorney's Office, detectives obtained more than 50 charges against the 12 identified suspects which ranged from second-degree murder and conspiracy to accessory after the fact and tampering with evidence. In addition to charges directly connected to these homicides, detectives also obtained an additional 80-plus charges linking the suspects and other associates in the clique to gang participation, narcotics distribution, and weapon related offenses for their involvement in the narcotics trafficking. Of the 12 suspects charged in connection with the homicides: the identity of two suspects previously charged in the double homicide are now being released; four suspects were already incarcerated and were served with additional charges; three suspects were located locally; and two suspects were located in New York. One suspect remains wanted and is believed to be in El Salvador. These arrests were made in coordination with the Prince William County Police Department, NVGTF, and FBI. Additional assistance was offered by the FBI field offices in Baltimore, Richmond, and New York. By dismantling this significant MS13 clique in the Northern Virginia area, law enforcement authorities removed several gang members from posing a credible risk of continued violence and other criminal behavior which directly threatens the safety of our community. About the task forces involved in the operation. The Northern Virginia Regional Gang Task Force and FBI Washington Field Office's Safe Streets/HIDTA Task Force – Northern Virginia are both multi-jurisdictional partnerships comprised of local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies that seek to address gang activity in Northern Virginia through dedicated officers and resources with the ultimate goal of discouraging gang activity in the region. These task forces are charged with investigating, disrupting, and dismantling the most egregious and violent gangs operating in Northern Virginia to include MS-13. Learn more by visiting: www.preventgangsnova.org or www.fbi.gov/investigate/violent-crime/gangs Gang Resource Information Line: 703-GET-HELP (438-4357)
- Prince William County Police Department
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
Police Blotter
Life sentence issued in gang-related killing in Nokesville
The following is an article published in PotomacLocal on November 19th. To read the full article please visit potomaclocal.com
Justice has been served in the gang-related death of Miguel Angel Ruiz Carrillo, 18, of Alexandria, who was found dead in Nokesville in 2017. The victim’s body was discovered in Nokesville Road and Fauquier Drive in Nokesville on August 22, 2017, after he was initially reported missing to Fairfax County Police earlier that month. Hector Armando Gamez Amaya, 31, was convicted on multiple charges and given a life sentence, as well as an additional 60-year sentence. The jury found Gamez Amaya guilty and recommended a life sentence in addition to 60 years in prison for the following charges:
• One count of First-Degree Murder Miguel Angel Ruiz Carrillo
• One count of Abduction
• Two counts of Criminal Gang Participation
• One count of Conspiracy to Commit Murder
• One count of Conspiracy to Commit Abduction
• One count of Stabbing in the Commission of a Felony
• One count of Unlawful Concealment of a Body
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
Police Blotter
Gang members indicted for murder in Charlottesville, two murder attempts in Prince William
The following is an article published in InsideNOVA on November 11th. To read the full article please visit insidenova.com
Federal prosecutors unsealed indictments Wednesday charging three MS-13 gang members for their roles in multiple violent crimes including a 2017 murder in Charlottesville and two 2019 attempted murders in Prince William County.
According to allegations in the indictment, Andy Tovar, 31, of White Post, was the "First Word" or leader of the Guanacos Lil Cycos Salvatruchas (GLCS) clique of MS-13. Roberto Cruz Moreno, 20, of Woodbridge, was a "pasa de homeboy," or soldier in the GLCS clique, and Kevin Perez Sandoval, 22, of Warrenton, was an "observacion," or associate, the U.S. Department of Justice said in a news release.
In July 2017, Tovar allegedly authorized members and associates of the GLCS clique to travel from Prince William County to Charlottesville to murder an individual the clique believed was a rival gang member, court records show.
At Tovar’s direction, on July 3, 2017, four members of the GLCS clique stabbed the victim over 140 times using knives and a machete before they dumped his body in a river, burned his car, and fled back to Prince William County, the release said.
In March 2019, Cruz Moreno allegedly picked up three other members or associates of the gang and drove them to an isolated wooded area in Bristow, where one associate shot another multiple times and another stabbed him "because members and associates of GLCS believed [the victim] was disrespecting MS-13," the release said.
Following the attempted murder, Cruz Moreno fled the scene with the three other GLCS participants and drove them to his residence. The victim survived.
In April 2019, local law enforcement officers in Fairfax County allegedly found Cruz Moreno, an illegal alien, in possession of the same firearm used to shoot the victim from the month before, and several grams of packaged cocaine in his vehicle with three other associates of GLCS, the release said.
Cruz Moreno obtained the cocaine from Tovar and had been selling the cocaine on behalf of the clique earlier that day, the indictment alleges.
In August 2019, members and associates of GLCS identified a third target as a rival gang member living in GLCS controlled territory and Tovar allegedly authorized members and associates to kill him.
On Aug. 12, 2019, Perez Sandoval and two other gang members saw the target at a laundromat in Manassas and sought Tovar’s permission to kill him there, according to the indictment.
After Tovar allegedly granted permission to conduct the killing at the laundromat, Perez Sandoval drove the two members or associates of MS-13 to retrieve a firearm, and back to the laundromat area where the was shot before Perez Sandoval drove them from the scene of the shooting. The victim survived.
Indictments against the three suspects include conspiracy to participate in a racketeering enterprise, conspiracy to commit murder in aid of a racketeering activity, conspiracy to distribute cocaine, attempted murder in aid of a racketeering activity, assault with a dangerous weapon in aid of racketeering, possession with intent to distribute cocaine, possession of a firearm in a drug trafficking crime and possession of a firearm by an illegal alien.
Tovar, Cruz Moreno, and Perez Sandoval each face a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and a maximum penalty of life in prison. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties.
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
Police Blotter
County Jail Projected To Lose Nearly $100k Due to Dangerous Termination of Federal Partnership
Following the Jail Board’s termination of the County’s highly successful 287g partnership with the federal government, the County Jail received $84 in revenue from the feds in the months of July and August. This is down from $23,188 received in July and August of 2019. Prior to termination of the agreement, which allowed the County Adult Detention Center to notify Immigration and Customs Enforcement of the most dangerous of criminals in their possession who had entered the country illegally, the jail had a projected revenue of approximately $92,000 for FY21 from the federal government in cooperation with the program. In May, the Board majority rammed through seven appointees over the objection of Supervisors Vega, Lawson, and Candland to eliminate the life saving 287g program.
- Coles District Staff
Ashworth Drops Charges Against Manassas Rioters
In a late October surprise, Prince William County Commonwealth Attorney, Amy Ashworth, dropped the charges against five individuals arrested during the May 30-31 riots and attacks on law enforcement on Sudley Road and Liberia Avenue.
Of the eight individuals arrested by the County Police Department over the course of the two days, five had their charges dropped.
Four police officers were seriously injured as a result of the attacks on May 30th, including one sustaining a major head injury for which he had to be taken to the hospital.
Attendees of the riot were made to disperse from Sudley Road after they began blocking the road just up the street from Prince William and Kaiser Permanente Hospital. Some of the protesters proceeded to jump on top of stopped cars along the busy road and according to the police report, threw dangerous projectiles at officers and civilians stopped by the protest, alike.
An unlawful assembly was declared shortly after 8pm. In addition to the attacks on law enforcement and civilians, numerous businesses, vehicles, and police cars were vandalized along Sudley Road.
One of those arrested attempted to ram their vehicle through a police perimeter.
The following day, two more were arrested for looting the Wal-Mart on Liberia Avenue connected with a protest initiated by a local church. The evening ended with Manassas police being forced out of the area by protest attendees.
- Coles District Staff
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
Police Blotter
Multiple Homicides in Woodbridge
Double Murder Investigation *ARREST – On November 3, detectives from the Homicide Unit identified the suspect sought in connection to the quadruple shooting which occurred at a home located in the 3300 block of Bristol Ct. in Woodbridge (22193) on November 1. As of result of the shooting two men were killed and an additional man and woman were seriously injured. The two surviving victims are expected to recover. The investigation revealed that a large party was occurring at the home where an altercation escalated. During the encounter, the suspect brandished a firearm and fired multiple rounds, striking the four victims. Following the investigation, detectives obtained warrants against the suspect, identified as Karriem Angelo JACKSON. On November 5, members of the U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force located and apprehended JACKSON without incident in the Reston area of Fairfax County. No additional suspects are being sought at this time. Arrested on November 5: [No Photo Available] Karriem Angelo JACKSON, 26, of the 2300 block of Hunters Square Ct in Reston. Charged with 2 counts of second degree murder, 2 counts of aggravated malicious wounding, and 4 counts of use of a firearm in commission of a felony Court Date: December 11, 2020 | Bond: Held WITHOUT Bond Identified: The deceased were identified as Christopher Alan JOHNSON, 24, of Alexandria and Frank Chineji SAPELE, 25, of Arlington Felony Homicide Investigation *ARREST – On December 2, detectives with the Homicide Unit identified a suspect in connection to the shooting of Michael Bright ADOM that was reported to have occurred in the 4000 block of Westwind Dr. in Woodbridge (22193) on November 29. The investigation revealed that the victim and other acquaintances, including a man later identified as the accused, were in the above area when the victim was shot. After the shooting the victim was brought to an area hospital where he later died as a result of his injuries. During the investigation, detectives identified the accused as an involved party. Following the investigation, the accused, identified as Marquis Rene WHITMORE, was arrested. The investigation continues. Arrested on December 2: Marquis Rene WHITMORE, 19, of 2967 Chinkapin Oak Ln. in Woodbridge. Charged with felony homicide, conspiracy to commit a felony, and concealing or compounding offenses. Court Date: February 19, 2020 | Bond: Held WITHOUT Bond
Identified: The deceased was identified as Michael Bright ADOM, 18, of Woodbridge
- Prince William County Police Department
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
Police Blotter
Prince William Hires Peter Newsham as New Police Chief
On November 24th, the Board of County Supervisors voted to hire Washington, DC Police Chief, Peter Newsham as its next Chief of Police. Newsham was chosen on a 7-1 vote of the Board following a comprehensive, months long search conducted by the County Executive. Four finalists were presented to the Board on November 24th for a full day of interviews. 50 applications were received doe the position from 16 states. Newsham, who was elevated to the Chief of Police position in DC in 2017, was originally hired by DC Police in 1989, and participated in various leadership capacities in high profile cases such as the disappearance of Chandra Levy and the Washington Navy Yard Shooting. Newsham was the highest ranked applicant by a diverse police review panel consisting of Deputy County Executive, Elijah Johnson, Sheriff Glen Hill, Commonwealth Attorney, Amy Ashworth, County Attorny, Michelle Robl, and three citizens with law enforcement backgrounds. In addition to his career with DC Police, Newsham e is also licensed to practice law in the state of Maryland Supervisor Vega highlighted Newsham’s 31 years of law enforcement in our nations’s capital city and his willingness to stand up to political pressure to defend his officers and keep residents safe. “Chief Newsham interviewed very well and has years of experience in our nation’s capital where he’s seen just about everything there possibly is to see. I also appreciated his willingness to back his officers under attack from politicians with little to no experience in law enforcement and his pushing back on DC City Council’s efforts to carelessly take $15 million from their police budget. I’m hopeful he’ll do what’s necessary to keep our residents safe while boosting the morale of our force.” Newsham’s first day on the job will be February 1st.
- Coles District Staff
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
Police Blotter
The Next Recruiting Open House is Scheduled for December 5
Are you interested in a career in law enforcement? Do you have questions about how to become a police officer? Join us for a recruiting information session to learn more about becoming an officer with the Prince William County Police Department on Saturday, Dec. 5, 2020, from 9 a.m. to Noon. The event will be held at the Charlie T. Deane Central District Station, 5036 Davis Ford Rd., Woodbridge (22192). Recruiters will be available to answer questions about the qualifications, hiring process, benefits, incentives and more. Speak one-on-one with an officer and get detailed information about what the Prince William County Police Department has to offer. Families are welcome. Due to COVID- 19 restrictions, all are asked to wear masks and observe social distancing. We look forward to seeing you! If you have questions, please call 703-792-6580. For more information, please visit this Police Department webpage: www.joinpwcpd.org.
- Prince William County Police Department
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
Police Blotter
Prince William County Enhances 9-1-1 Services and Emergency Notification with Smart911
Public safety officials in Prince William County announced today that Smart911 is now available to all individuals. Smart911 is a free service that allows individuals and families to sign up online to provide key information to 9-1-1 call takers during an emergency. Smart911 allows individuals to create a Safety Profile for their household at www.smart911.com or on the Smart911 App that includes any information they want 9-1-1 and response teams to have ahead of an emergency. When a citizen who completes their Safety Profile ahead of time makes an emergency call, that information is automatically displayed to the 9-1 -1 call taker, allowing them to send the right response teams to the right location with the right information. The Smart911 app provides greater access to the lifesaving benefits of Smart911 and targeted location- based alerts to all individuals. The Smart911 App is available on the Apple Store or Google Play. With Smart911, individuals can link both home and work addresses to mobile phones, which are passed on to responders in the field for a more detailed, rapid response. Additional information including pets in the home, vehicle details in the event of a crash, and even emergency contacts can all be included in a Safety Profile. All information is optional, and the citizen has the ability to choose what details they would like to include. Individuals are encouraged to create their Safety Profile with Smart911 today to have their information immediately available to 9-1-1 and to receive emergency notifications. Smart911 is private and secure, is only used for emergency responses and only made available to the 9-1-1 system in the event of an emergency call.
- Prince William County Public Safety Communications
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
Supervisor Vega Donates Office Savings to Animal Shelter, Dove’s Landing Park
Supervisor Vega donated $40,186 from the Coles District Office FY2020 savings to two capital projects in the Coles District, the Prince William County Animal Shelter, and Dove’s Landing Park. $20,186 will go towards a conservation easement at Dove’s Landing, an estimated total cost of $25,000. The remaining $20,000 will be allocated to the Animal Shelter, a small, but significant sum Supervisor Vega hopes will offset some of the overall costs of the shelter. Kim Hosen, the Executive Director of the Prince William Conservation Alliance, a major driving force behind the creation of Dove’s Landing Park, expressed their appreciation and excitement. “This is terrific news...I very much appreciate Yesli’s initiative to move forward with the conservation easement for Dove’s Landing, which will bring this project to a close after nearly 15 years.” Supervisor Vega credited her staff with helping her run a fiscally conservative office that enables her to invest back into important district projects like the Animal Shelter and Dove’s Landing. “In our attempt to be good stewards of the citizens tax dollars, my office strives to watch how every penny is spent as if it were our own. Though we unfortunately can’t rebate the citizens with these savings directly, we can reinvest them into capital projects in the district they care about.” Pursuant to the BOCS Rules of Procedure, magisterial district office savings cannot be rebated to the taxpayers in the form of a tax credit.
- Coles District Staff
Meet the Board: Supervisor Yesli Vega
Click here to watch the video
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
Strategic Plan Update
In October I sent the following e-mail regarding the community survey results from the Strategic Plan
“Dear Neighbor, You may recall that back in July I emailed a link to a survey from the Strategic Plan Team regarding the most important issues the County should address according to you, the residents. And the results are in. According to County residents, 68.2% list a “Safe and secure community” as one of the top five issues County government should focus on over the next four years. This issue topped the list despite coinciding with the intense calls from some over the summer to defund or cut local law enforcement budgets. Coming in second was “Schools and Quality Education” with 64.4% of County residents, followed by traffic alleviation and Mobility (roads, transportation & transit, multi-modal) at 62.8%. Rounding out the top five were Environmental Conservation (41.2%) and Economic Development - Diversified and Resilient Economy (41%). The remaining top issues of County residents from amongst the choices were as follows: 6.) Sustainable Growth - 38.1% 7.) Recreation, Culture, and History - 30.5% 8.) Services for Mental and Physical Health - 30% 9.) Affordable Housing - 26.5% 10.) Equity & Inclusion - 22% 11.) Technology $ Connectivity - 21.4% 12.) Workforce Development and Training - 20.7% As I mentioned in my prior email containing the survey link, I was disappointed that the County did not include a clear and concise option for those opposed to residential overdevelopment. This is a bipartisan, quality of life concern shared across Party lines that most likely would have scored even higher than safe and secure communities if given a choice. Environmental Conservation and Sustainable Growth were the options most affiliated with this concern, though I don’t believe they were clear and well defined enough to use as a clear substitute. Mobility concerns, at 62.8%, is certainly a result of the residential overdevelopment we’ve seen over the last few decades. Special thanks to every County resident who participated in the survey. We’ll keep our fingers crossed that the Strategic Plan Team and the Board of County Supervisors act on your recommendations! For a link to the survey results please click here.”
Continued...
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
Strategic Plan Update (Continued)
The very next day, in a presentation seemingly derying logic, the County Strategic Plan Team presented the Board with, among other things, “Key Themes in Focus Areas.” See the County’s pre-determined focus areas for the purported “citizen driven process” listed above. One of the supposed “key themes” reported by the Strategic Plan Team in regards to “Safe and Secure Communities” was to “Consider reallocation of some Police funding to other social services.” When pressed, Strategic Plan Team Coordinator Kaye Wallace, said this was listed as a theme because based on community feedback, the number of residents indicating in the community survey and during the community conversations that opposed or supported defunding the police versus those who supported/ supporting increasing funding to the police were “equal.” 68% of County residents told us Safe and Secure Communities was one of their top issues – the highest of every option included. But there’s more. The survey also asked for open ended feedback for those who wished to elaborate on their responses. My office compiled every comment that could be related to law enforcement (for/against, etc.). As you can see in this document, a quick review further highlights the fact that support for law enforcement measures and police funding versus “reallocating” police budgets to social services could not possibly be considered “equal.” We have helped to expose a lot in Prince William County Government over the last 11 months, but this was by far the most egregious factual error anyone on County staff has committed so far this year. It begs the legitimate question of whether Ms. Wallace even read the survey comments before providing the community with this presentation. There is, quite frankly, no way she could have read the survey and come to the conclusion that opposition and support for our police were “equal.” Additionally, a review of comments from the community conversation’s revealed that fewer than a handful of attendees mentioned the defunding or reallocating police budgets. Again, if you wish to read the comments for yourself, please click here: Strategic Plan Survey Responses Related to Law Enforcement. You can read all comments by reviewing the survey results here. Unfortunately, this all lends itself to the belief of many residents in the county that the Strategic Plan is not actually a citizen driven process, but one with pre-determined outcomes that merely goes through the motions meant to check the “citizen input” box. Earlier this year, the Board, with a recommendation from County staff, cut the number of citizen participants on the Strategic Plan in half, decreasing their influence, while increasing the influence of County government. This was a classic example of the disconnect between what our residents want and what your County government actually hears and does. Other areas in the Strategic Plan where pre-determined outcomes did not match with resident desires included focus on the still undefined term of “Equity” in government and the still undefined term of “Affordable Housing.” Both survey options scored very low amongst County residents, despite the claim that these were “key themes” in your responses. The County’s 2021-2024 Strategic Plan is not an inconsequential document. It will guide policy and be referenced repeatedly to justify actions taken by your government over the next four years. Yes, they did not provide you an option to voice your opinion on Overdevelopment, but there is still time for the Strategic Plan Team to right this ship before they come forward with their recommendations. They can start by listening to you and your recommendations, fulfilling the promise of a “citizen driven process.”
- Supervisor Vega
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
Prince William County Voter Turnout Percentage Declines from 2016, Well Short of Expectations
According to the Virginia Department of Elections, 228,056 votes were cast in Prince William County for the 2020 Presidential Election. Out of 322.938 registered voters, this represents a turnout percentage of 70.6%. In the 2016 Presidential Election there were 196,442 votes cast out of 274,147 registered voters for a turnout of 71.7%. Earlier this year, County officials anticipated turnout of up to 90%, prompting increases in government spending for eight early voting locations, up from three in 2016. According to the Virginia Public Access Project, voter turnout in Coles Magisterial District precincts were as follows:
Coles Magisterial District - November 2020 Election Turnout
Penn 81.5%
Coles 80.1%
Buckhall 79.8%
Independent Hill 79.8%
Bennett 79.7%
Hylton 79.7%
Marshall 79.4%
Spriggs 78.4%
Lucasville 77.0%
Signal Hill 76.9%
Rosa Parks 76.5%
Saunders 74.5%
Ellis 67.6%
Yorkshire 66.4%
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
County Releases Results of Planning Director Survey
On October 23rd, Prince William County released the results of its Planning Director survey, made available to residents earlier this year at Supervisor Vega’s request. For the first time, County residents were able to provide their direct input on what they would like to see in their next Planning Director. The release of the results was timely as it preceded by just a couple of weeks the County’s hiring of Parag Agrawal from Milton, Georgia to serve as its new Planning Director. Mr. Agrawal is scheduled to start on December 7th. In the survey, which can be found here, resident priorities that received 5% or more included: 1.) Slow Down Growth/Development - 19% 2.) Protect the Rural Crescent - 16% 3.) Address Traffic Issues - 13% 4.) Repair and Maintain Roads - 13% 5.) Enhance Communication/Engagement - 13% 6.) Enhance Infrastructure - 11% 7.) Less Dense Development - 9% 8.) Protect the Environment - 9% 9.) Attract/Develop Business - 8% 10.) Preserve Green Space - 8% 11.) Ensure Schools are Not Overcrowded - 7% 12.) Smart Growth Strategy - 7% 13.) Enhance Parks and Trails - 6% Items that scored low included: Enhancing Public Transit at 3%, Evaluate the Best Options for Route 28 (3%), Provide Additional Housing (2%), Support Growth and Development (2%), Plan to Enhance Equity (2%). According to the County’s analysis of the survey results, “Respondents have concerns that the next Director will be pressured by developers.” When asked what challenges the next Director will face, the most common response was that the Director will be required to stand up to developers, who they fear may be applying undue pressure on the County to continue to develop. Many specifically expressed the hope that the next Director will put the needs of residents first and consider quality of life before economic development. When the residents were asked what advice they would have for the next planning director, the most common responses were 1.) Listen to the Community, 2.) Slow Down Growth and Development, and 3.) Focus on Residents. Supervisor Vega said she was not surprised by the results calling for the less residential development and the preservation of open space. “For decades now, the residents of Prince William County have been begging their elected officials and county government to slow down the pace of residential building and to allow our infrastructure (schools, roads, public safety) to catch up to the explosive population growth. The countywide results of this survey confirms that. I hope everyone involved in Prince William County Government, from top to bottom, from the new planning director to the board of supervisors, will take this feedback to heart and listen to our residents.”
- Coles District Staff
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
Supervisor Vega Introduces Directive to Protect County Drinking Water
On November 17th, Supervisor Vega issued a directive to County staff to look into creating, with public input, an Occoquan Reservoir Protection Overlay District to protect the safety of drinking water for thousands of County residents. In her directive, Supervisor Vega noted that the Occoquan Reservoir watershed is environmentally sensitive, featuring steep slopes, erodible soils, and multiple feeder streams. She also noted that additional housing development in the watershed area, combined with certain commercial and agricultural activities will result in additional run-off and sedimentary pollution in the reservoir. “The County’s Comprehensive Plan has recommended a Drinking Water Reservoir Protection Overlay District for many years. This year, many environmentally conscious residents and those who simply want clean drinking water have become more and more concerned by the Board’s proclivity to continue pursuing policies that harm our local environment and sources of drinking water. I felt the time was right to act on this long overdue recommendation,” said Coles Supervisor, Yesli Vega. “I look forward to the County setting up a robust forum for public input in developing this vital addition to our County Zoning Ordinance.”
- Coles District Staff
Supervisor Vega Moves to Give Yorkshire Residents Options in Trash Pick Up
On December 1st the Board approved Supervisor Vega’s resolution to allow residents of Yorkshire to opt out from the compulsory Yorkshire Sanitary District. The only such district in the county of its kind, the Yorkshire Sanitary District was created in 1970 in response to a homemade landfill created in the area which led to rodent infestation. While the rates for trash pick within the compulsory district remain low, some residents had expressed opposition that they were not allowed options for their trash services. The resolution passed does not abolish the sanitary district, but merely allow residents of Yorkshire a choice over how their trash reaches the landfill.
- Coles District Staff
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
COVID-19 Vaccine Hospitalizations from Development Coronavirus Remain Low in Prince William A vaccine for COVID-19 has been developed in Deaths Partially Attributed to COVID historic time, with five vaccines now in Phase 3 of Continue to Decline From Spring Peak Clinical Trials. The companies which have vaccines in this stage of development are AstraZeneca, Janssen, Moderna, Novavax, and Pfizer. This phase For November 29th, the Virginia Department of is to determine the “efficacy” of a vaccine. This Health reported 1 new hospitalization related to means the vaccines are given to thousands of symptoms from the novel coronavirus. individuals to document its effectiveness and reveal The 7 day average for the number of reported any potential rare side effects. AstraZeneca, COVID-19 cases has remained steady since about Moderna and Pfizer have shown over 90% mid-April. However, the number of confirmed cases effectiveness of their vaccines in trials. has not translated into an increase in After vaccines pass Phase 3 trials, the likely next hospitalizations or deaths. step is for the vaccine to receiving “emergency use At the pandemic’s height on June 3rd, Prince authorization” from the U.S. Food and Drug William County saw 25 new COVID-19 Administration. Currently, the federal government hospitalizations in one day. Since July, the 7-day has not authorized or recommended any vaccine for average for number of COVID-19 related preventing COVID-19. However, AstraZeneca, hospitalizations has remained below 5. Pfizer, and Moderna have filed or likely will be filing for “emergency use authorization” from the Below is a chart showing the number of deaths FDA soon. The Secretary of Health and Human partially or fully attributed to COVID in Prince Services has stated that vaccines will start to ship William County: within 24 hours of gaining this emergency authorization. Date Range Deaths At a press conference on November 13th, President March 28 - May 28 101 Trump said “the average development timeline for May 29 - July 29 67 the vaccine, including clinical tests and July 30 - September 30 36 manufacturing, can take 8 to 12 years.” “Through Operation Warp Speed,” he said, “we’re doing it in October 1 - December 1 31 less than one year.”
For more information on COVID-19 vaccine The data on coronavirus’s impact in Prince William development, please visit the U.S. Centers for County is shows that the impact of the virus on Disease Control and Prevention website. public health has been significantly reduced compared to the spring. - Coles District Staff - Coles District Staff
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
Northam Announces New, Indefinite Lockdown Measures Ahead of Holidays
On November 13th, Virginia Governor Ralph Northam, announced new lockdown measures as a response to COVID-19 infections occurring outside of Virginia. This includes limiting in-person gatherings to 25 people, an expansion of the mask mandate, and an on-site alcohol curfew. Most bizarre of the Governor’s measures is the decision to charge small business owners who, through no fault of their own, have a customer not in compliance with the Governor’s statewide guidelines, charged with a Class One Misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and a $2,500 fine. Other examples of Class One Misdemeanors in Virginia include DUI, assault and battery, and petit larceny.
- Coles District Staff
County Had Record Unemployment in Setting Tourism County Continues to Numbers in 2019 Decline
According to data released by the Virginia Tourism Although Governor Northam’s lockdown measures Corporation and the U.S. Travel Association, Prince remain in place, recent economic numbers suggest William County maintained its position as the ninth that Prince William County is heading towards largest tourism economy in Virginia in 2019. economic recovery. This data showed there was a record $643 million According to the most recent data from the U.S. spent in travel-related expenditures in 2019 in Bureau of Labor Statistics, Prince William County's Prince William County. This was an increase of 4% unemployment rate had continued its downward compared to 2018. Prior to the coronavirus, trend. There were 852 initial unemployment claims tourism supported 6,782 hospitality careers locally, for the week ending November 21st. This is and taxes paid by visitors provided $37.8 million in significant improvement compared to the week of revenue to the county. April 4th, the peak of first-time unemployment claims, in which there were 9,178 initial claims.
Recently numbers also show that the county’s - Coles District Staff unemployment rate has fallen from a high of 11.3% in April to 6.4% in September. These numbers are indicative of the fact that many of those who lost their jobs at the worst of the COVID-19 crisis have been able to find employment again despite the restrictions on businesses.
- Coles District Staff
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
How COVID-19 Relief Funds Received By County Will Be Spent
In March, the federal government passed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security or CARES Act. This provided $3.1 billion in COVID-19 relief funds for the Commonwealth of Virginia. The state allocated $82.1 million of these funds to Prince William County, including the Towns of Dumfries, Haymarket, Occoquan and Quantico.
This funding has all been allocated as the CARES Act requires that this money be spent before December 30th. A breakdown of the different categories of expenditures that the county has allocated this funding to can be found below:
Schools $28,240,000 County Response / Telework Initiatives $13,592,574 Economic Recovery $9,680,000 Homeless Services Navigation $5,760,000 Small Business Microgrants $5,000,000 COVID-19 Testing $4,000,000 Mortgage/Rental/Utility Assistance $3,660,000 Community Alliance - Nonprofit Grants $3,000,000 Community Feeding $2,660,000 Homeless Services $2,000,000 Child Care Funds $2,000,000 Towns $1,477,256 Elections COVID-19 Precautions $1,000,000 Total $82,069,830
It is important to note that this is not inclusive of all of COVID-19 related funds which Prince William County has received. This list only includes the funds which the Board of County Supervisors was given to allocate. For example, the School Division received CARES Act funding directly from the federal government separately from the money allocated to them by the Board of County Supervisors.
- Coles District Staff
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
Community Feeding Prince William County Taskforce Continues Offering Child Care to Serve During the Scholarship Program Pandemic Using $2M of CARES Act funding, administered by the County’s Industrial Development Authority, The Community Feeding Taskforce, a partnership Prince William County is partnering with Prince between Prince William County, Action in William County Schools (PWCS) to provide a Community Through Service (ACTS), the Cities of childcare scholarship program to families Manassas and Manassas Park, and the Prince financially impacted by COVID-19. If parents or William County Community Foundation, was guardians have experienced job loss or work hour established shortly after the onset of the COVID-19 reduction, wage reduction, new childcare expenses pandemic to coordinate food distribution for those because of remote learning or are teleworking in need. without access to childcare, they can apply to Since April, the taskforce has provided over six participate. million pounds of food (the equivalent of five million meals), made over 1,100 no-contact AlphaBEST Education, Inc., the current contractor emergency food deliveries to families and made for PWCS’ before and after school childcare will over 800 no-contact food deliveries to shut-in administer the program—AlphaAcademy. senior citizens. Each week, the taskforce receives at AlphaBEST will provide scholarships for children to least nine tractor trailer loads of USDA Farmers to attend their Fall 2020 full day program. Families food boxes, 1,500 non-perishable food The program is available for up to 1,000 students, boxes from the Capital Area Food Bank and Monday through Friday, from 6 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., donations from 145 food donor partners, which it at several Prince William County elementary uses to support 72 food distribution sites. schools: Antietam, Bristow Run, Buckland Mills, Chris Yung, Coles, Dale City, Fitzgerald, Glenkirk, The Food Helpline is available for those in need Jenkins, Potomac View, River Oaks, Tyler and Monday through Thursday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Yorkshire. AlphaBEST and PWCS may add new at 703.794.4668. Prince William County also has an school locations, as necessary, to accommodate online map that provides information about free additional enrollees. AlphaBEST staff will follow all food distribution sites COVID-19 health, safety, and cleaning protocols to ensure the safety and wellbeing of participants. Registration opens Oct. 6, 2020, and the childcare - Coles District Supervisor scholarship program will run until Dec. 30, 2020, or until funds are depleted. When parents register their children for the program, we will inform them at that time that funding through the end of the calendar year is not guaranteed. The anticipated cost is $150 per student per week, plus a one-time $42 registration fee.
- Coles District Staff
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
Parents Allowed to Send Some Younger Students Back to School Part Time
Prince William County Schools is continuing to slowly implement a phased-in approach to return students to partial in-person learning. Since the start of the school year, students with learning disabilities and those with limited proficiency in the English language have been learning in-person for 4 days a week. If parents indicated an in-person preference, or did not give any preference, their children may attend two alternating days of in-person learning per week. Which days student will go back is based on their assigned “house”. Students in “House A” will learn in- person Tuesdays and Thursdays. Students in “House B” will learn in-person Wednesday’s and Fridays. Students in “House C” will learn 100% virtual without any in-person instruction. Every Monday continues to be dedicated to virtual learning for all students.
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
All Virtual House A learns House B learns House A learns House B learns Learning in-person in-person in-person in-person
Planning for House B learns House A learns House B learns House A learns Teachers virtually virtually virtually virtually
House C learns virtually
Starting November 10th, Pre-K and Kindergarten students could begin the hybrid in-person learning plan. First Grade students could begin hybrid in-person learning starting December 1st. Some students in high school career and technical education classes could return to in-person learning on Mondays beginning November 16th. Students in Second and Third Grades will be able to begin hybrid in-person learning on January 12th. Students in Fourth through Twelfth grades will remain fully virtual during the entirety of the second quarter.
- Coles District Staff
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
PWEA Protests Reopening Schools
On Wednesday, October 7th, the Prince William Educators Association held a “Mobilize to Survive” caravan in protest of the Prince William School Board’s consideration of a return to learn plan. The weekend before, the local teacher’s union chapter opposed a hybrid learning option for some students in a press release. While the Prince William School Board were in closed session, the protesters drove around the building and honked their car horns. During the protest, some participants drove with child sized coffins on top of their vehicles. As of November 30th, the Virginia Department of Health has recorded 4,062 deaths statewide from COVID- 19. Since the start of the pandemic, VDH believes that 1 of those deaths was from a person under 19 years old.
- Coles District Staff
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
School Board Defies Will of Residents on School Calendar
New Calendar Assures Certain Religious Holidays Elevated Above Others on County School Calendar
Despite 65% of more than 13,000 County parents, teachers, and students preferring to retain the current school year calendar, the Prince William County School Board opted instead for a calendar option which gives students time off for holidays of certain major religions, but not others, including religious holidays of Christianity, Eastern Orthodox, and Sikhs. The survey sent out in October to solicit feedback from the community presented two options. Option A would have retained the pre-COVID 2020-2021 school year calendar, while Option B shortened the Winter Break in favor of giving new days off for the observance of certain religious holidays, include two for the Jewish faith (Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur), one for the Muslim faith (Eid al-fitr), and one for the Hindu faith (Diwali). Option A would have provided a “student holiday” to students to, among other things, celebrate their respective faiths, if they so chose. 65% of the more than 13,000 respondents chose to retain Option B while only 35% chose Option B. In October, Supervisor Vega provided her constituents a link to the survey while adding that Option B seemed to blur the lines of the so-called “separation of church and state” while elevating certain religions over others. “I have no problem with our schools celebrating a diverse set of holy days, but the school district must be consistent and not discriminate or elevate the holy days of certain religious belief systems over others. For example, Prince William County Schools does not acknowledge any days related to the Christian faith, nor does their proposed plan for next school year include any Christian holidays. County students typically have the day of Good Friday off from school, but it’s done during “Spring Break” and not acknowledged on the school calendar on its own, as the proposed plan does for the celebration of other faiths. As a governmental entity that receives the bulk majority of County tax dollars, our school system should not be in the business of picking and choosing which religious holy days should be celebrated and which should not. Every faith must be celebrated and treated equally, or not at all.” Though students receive time off for Winter” and “Spring” break, these are seasons and not connected to any particular religious holidays. In the end, the School Board chose what they called a third option, Option C, which gives days off for the aforementioned religious holidays while making the last day of school in June five days later.
- Coles District Staff
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
School Division Begins By Opening Every Nationwide Search for Facility for <2% of New Superintendent Students, Prince
William County In mid-November, the School Board announced Schools Missed they were launching a nationwide search for a new Significant Superintendent for Virginia’s second largest school district after the current Superintendent, Steve Opportunity to Save Walts, announced his retirement earlier this year. Taxpayers’ Money The school board will pay B.W.P and Associates, of Libertyville, Illinois, around $50,000 for a five- month search for the next superintendent. After announcing this summer that fewer than 2% of all Prince William County students would be The first step of the process is receiving feedback allowed to return for in-person learning this fall, through a community survey. You may click here to Prince William County Schools missed a significant take the confidential survey by December 10th. opportunity to save struggling local taxpayers money by using all of the County’s near 100 Additionally, community meetings will be held from facilities. November 29-December 3. A schedule of the meetings, which are open to the public, can be With several elementary schools in the County found here. having around 400-500 students, 2% would equal 8 -10 students per facility. The search for a new Superintendent comes following Walts’s retirement amidst a social media Following the Governor’s orders to terminate in- scandal in which Walts was alleged to have person learning last school year from March to improperly used his Twitter account to message June, County officials estimated total cost savings underage students in violation of County school of $7-$8 million. rules. A lawsuit was filed earlier this year alleging that many of the conversations with students took With fewer than 2% of students allowed to return for in-person learning this fall, Supervisor Vega place late into the night. A FOIA request for the questioned why, with so few students, schools could contents of the messages was approved by the not consolidate and save the County money by Board of Supervisors on a 7-1 vote earlier this year. opening up 25% or even 50% of the facilities instead However, the request was rejected by the School of 100% for the 1,600 of 92,000 receiving in-person Division, claiming that it would expose the privacy instruction. In response, Superintendent Steve of students. The BOCS request specifically Walts claimed that opening up and operating the requested that students names and identities be schools was necessary because someone had to pick redacted. up the mail at each location.
The School Division release said that it will pay a - Coles District Staff “nationally competitive salary”. Walts is the highest paid Superintendent in the Commonwealth of Virginia, making nearly $450,000 per year in salary and benefits. According to B.W.P. and Associates, recruitment should wrap up around the end of January whereupon they will present 4-6 applicants for the School Board to interview.
- Coles District Staff
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
Supervisor Candland’s Resolution to Define Equity in Housing and Environmental Concepts in Land Use Documents and Policy Defeated on Party Line Vote
Resolution Falsely Described as a “Development Moratorium”
On October 6th, Supervisor Pete Candland’s (Gainesville) resolution to define key terms such as “Equity” and “Environmental Justice” as they relate to land use documents and policy was defeated on a party line vote. The terms have been used more frequently since the new Board took office in January. However, meanings of these terms and how they release to critical County policy have never been defined. Without definition, such terms are essenetially meaningless in the debate over County business. A link to Supervisor Candland’s resolution can be found here. In a bizarre move, the Chair’s office inserted an editorial comment under the resolution in the agenda calling it a “Development Moratorium.” Under Virginia law, development moratorium’s are illegal. Furthermore, the resolution did not call for a moratorium in development. Supervisor Candland called the decision to editorialize his resolution “unprecedented” and a “dog whistle to developers.”
- Coles District Staff
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
Supervisor Vega Attends Reopening and Tours New Central Library
On November 18th, Supervisor Vega attended and spoke at the official ribbon cutting ceremony and opening of the County’s newly remodeled Central Library on Mathis Avenue. Central Library’s renovation represents a commitment to bringing quality library services and a welcoming space to our community that will enhance the library experience for our residents. As part of the renovation, walls were broken down and the interior completely redesigned to offer more open space for programming and general enjoyment. The children’s area was also completely redesigned, and The Community Room has renovated to offer space for programming and civic organizations to meet; Finally, a new quiet study room, and two new individual study/conference rooms were built, in addition to bathrooms being made ADA-compliant. Supervisor Vega thanked the previous board and her predecessor, Supervisor Marty Nohe for their leadership on making the renovations happen, in addition to the library board and staff, Director Debbie Wright, and the architects, contractors, and constructions crews who made the day a reality. “This state of the art facility will be source of pride for our community and will provide an opportunity for exploration and continued learning for decades to come,” said Vega.
- Coles District Staff
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
Supervisor Vega Questions County’s Use of Term ‘Latinx’
At the Board’s October 13th work session, Supervisor Vega questioned County’s officials use of the term ‘Latinx’ to refer to residents of Hispanic origin in Prince William County. People who can trace their origins to Latin American countries are typically referred to as ‘Hispanics’ or ‘Latinos’ (the Spanish language plural). In the United States, a recent poll found 68% of residents who can trace their roots to Latin America prefer these terms (others identify by their Country of origin, American, or Chicano). 2% identified with the recently made up term, ‘Latinx’. The Spanish language is built upon gendered pronouns. Usage of the term ‘Latinx’ is incorrect when describing people of Latin American origin in the plural and is tantamount to changing the entire crux of the Spanish language. In fact, fewer than 1 in 4 Hispanics in the United States say they’ve even heard of the term ‘Latinx’ to describe themselves according to a separate poll by the Pew Research Center. Supervisor Vega echoed the these results when talking about the Hispanic residents of Prince William County. “25% of residents in Prince William County now identify as Hispanic or Latino, the largest minority group in the County. We should not be changing the entire basis of the Spanish language by referring to these individuals by a term that 98% of them do not identify with and nearly 80% have never even heard of. I understand there is a fringe political movement afoot, mostly perpetuated by non-Hispanics or non-Spanish speakers to change our language, but the County should not engage. The Spanish language is pristine and perfect as it is and Hispanics here in the County and around the Country and the globe, almost universally, do not want to see it changed. I will be pushing back on any effort to use this made up term to change our language on behalf of my Hispanic brothers and sisters here in Prince William County.” Supervisor Vega’s parents came to the United States from El Salvador in 1984. She is the first Supervisor of Latin American heritage to serve on the Prince William County Board of Supervisors.
- Coles District Staff
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
Legislative Affairs Update
On November 18th, the BOCS received an update from the County’s Office of Legislative Affairs on bills passed during the recent three month special session in addition to draft priorities for the 2021 General Assembly Legislative Agenda.
The special session, which primarily focused on law enforcement and the budget, resulted in several new laws, including:
• Bans on chokeholds and no-knock warrants
• Giving localities the power to create Civilian Review boards overseeing local law enforcement
• Decertification of police officers based on serious misconduct
• Prohibiting law enforcement from making traffic stops for certain physical defects on a vehicle
Budget items included:
• Delaying any reduction in state aid due to enrollment declines until the end of the current school year
• A universal moratorium on evictions for residential protestors through the end of the year
• $50 million for broadband infrastructure
At the County’s last legislative update in September, the bill decertifying law enforcement officers was for three complaints being made against them was incredibly vague. Following Supervisor Vega’s questioning of the bill, legislative affairs worked with the general assembly to ensure language that the complaints had to be proven and substantiated, not just allegations. Another bill brought up by Supervisors Lawson and Vega at the September update was SB5032, which would have decriminalized assault and battery on law enforcement, firefighters, volunteer firefighters, judges, and other keepers of the peace, while maintaining a felony charge for attacks on politicians. Vega and Lawson registered their strong opposition to the bill. Fortunately, while it was passed on a party-line vote in the Senate, the bill was ultimately not agreed to by the House of Delegates during this session.
Continued...
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
Legislative Affairs Update (Continued)
The County’s Legislative Affairs team also briefed the Board on their draft agenda for 2021 which included support for things such as:
• Measures that mitigate the burden of unfinished mandates
• Programs and resources that enable Prince William County to attract targeted employers
• Provides ‘flexibility for localities to best serve the needs of their community’
• Promoted environmental stewardship that enhances the quality of life for the residents of Prince William County
While noting they opposed measures that:
• Attempt to preempt, restrict, or limit local revenue raising authority or adversely impacts existing taxing authority
• Infringes on the local authority and flexibility to control policies and procedures governing local land use matters
• Imposes additional fees on the County for measures that are clearly the responsibility of the Commonwealth
Many on the Board expressed opposition to allowing the County to impose photo-speed and red-light cameras, while Supervisor Vega also registered her opposition to allowing local politicians the power to impose new taxes on their residents and businesses. The Board will adopt their agenda at the afternoon meeting session in December with a virtual discussion with the Prince William County state legislative delegation to follow.
- Coles District Staff
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Earns Accreditation from the National Recreation and Parks Association
The Prince William Board of County Supervisors is pleased to announce that the County's Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism (DPRT) has achieved accreditation from the National Recreation and Parks Associations (NRPA) Commission on Parks and Recreation Accreditation (CAPRA). Earning this honor after a year-long review process, DPRT joins a group of only twelve other Virginia agencies, and only one percent of parks and recreation agencies nationwide, to hold CAPRA accreditation. As part of the accreditation process, the Department documented compliance with 151 standards demonstrating well detailed processes, efficient operations and a high level of service to the community. CAPRA accreditation is the only national accreditation for park and recreation agencies and is a measure of an agency's overall quality of operation, management and service to the community. This mark of distinction indicates that an agency has met rigorous standards related to the management and administration of lands, facilities, resources, programs, safety and services. The accreditation process involves a formal application, self-assessments, a site visit by a team of trained visitors that results in a written report (conducted virtually this year due to COVID-19), and a hearing with the commission to grant accreditation. Once accredited, the agency must uphold the standards by submitting an annual report and is reviewed again in five years. The Commission on Accreditation of Parks and Recreation Agencies is comprised of representatives from NRPA, the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration, the National Association of County Park and Recreation Officials, the International City/County Management Association, the Academy for Leisure Sciences, the Armed Forces Recreation Network and the Council of State Executive Directors. To learn more about Prince William County's Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism, visit their website.
- Prince William County Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
Supervisor Vega Meets Supervisor Vega with Solar Panel Invited to Speak at the Advocates Greater Prince William Trails Supervisor Vega met with advocates for the solar Coalition Meeting panel industry to discuss making Prince William
County more friendly to those who wish to lower On October 29th, Supervisor Vega attended the their electric bills. The focus of the conversation Prince William Trails Coalition Meeting. At the was to determine what the county government can meeting, she discussed her objective to have our do to reduce the regulatory burden for homeowners county’s existing trails become a more connected and solar panel installers. The discussion included system. She emphasized the benefits of making the different ways the permitting could be trails more unified and integrated. These benefits simplified, and how the application process can be include greater opportunities for exercise and more efficient for all those who are looking to make recreation and more options for mobility. physical improvements to their homes or Supervisor Vega thanked the group for their businesses. passion about and support for our county’s great trails. - Coles District Staff
- Coles District Staff
Money Allocated for Turf Replacement at Hellwig Park
On November 17th, the Board of Supervisors authorized $41,907 from the Artificial Turf Sinking Fund to replace Ar- tificial Turf Field #7 at George Hellwig Memorial Park. The new turf should be in place by January.
- Coles District Staff
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
Woodbine Cemetery Update
On November 16th, the Woodbine Family Worship Center & Christian School, Inc. & Gene R. Wells and the Canova Land and Investment Company went before the Board of Zoning Appeals to request appeals of the six “Violation Notice and Correction Orders” related to the Woodbine cemetery property. The Board of Zoning appeals did not grant an appeal and upheld the six “Violation Notice and Correction Orders” that had been issued by Prince William County. Both the Woodbine Family Worship Center & Christian School, Inc. & Gene R. Wells and the Canova Land and Investment Company have 30 days from November 16th to appeal this decision by the Board of Zoning Appeals to the Circuit Court. During these 30 days, enforcement action by the county is delayed.
- Coles District Staff
Supervisor Vega Tours Mooney Wastewater Treatment Plant
My staff and I had the pleasure of taking a tour of the Mooney Wastewater Treatment Plant. It was truly an honor to meet so many wonderful and dedicated individuals who pride themselves working everyday to ensure that Prince William County residents can enjoy the cleanest and highest quality of drinkable water. It was fascinating learning about the meticulous treatment process to ensure that our water is up to drinkable standards. The service Authority is widely respected for their standards around safety and reliability, it also has the most rigorous level of service and performance benchmarks of any water utility in the region. If you need help paying your water bills or want to provide assistance to those in need click here for more information.
To find out more please Click here.
- Coles District Staff
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
Volunteer Businesses Ambassadors Needed
Many businesses across Prince William County are still struggling from the impact of COVID-19. The county's Department of Economic Development is looking for volunteers to serve as ambassadors to the business community and connect them with resources to help. Over the next 10 weeks, residents, community leaders and other volunteers will reach out to Prince William County business owners by phone for direct, one-on-one conversations. Volunteers are needed to confirm the businesses' contact details and to communicate the programs and resources that are available for COVID-19 related challenges. Ambassadors are asked to:
• Volunteer two to four hours per week as a volunteer for the next eight to 12 weeks.
• Call Prince William County businesses.
• Visit/Speak to owners/decision makers during their day-to-day business.
• Complete an online form for each conversation.
• Provide information (links to grants, PPE and other resources).
• Inquire about business needs. Participants commit to one two-week blitz at a time and accrue points for making calls and speaking to local businesses. At the end of each two-week blitz, Economic Development will tally points and award prizes. Residents who would like to participate can reach out to Michele Weatherly at [email protected].
- Prince William County Department of Economic Development
Temporary Activity Permits
To support local businesses, Prince William County has been accepting applications for Temporary Activity Permits (TAP) since May. These permits allow for outdoor seating at restaurants, dining and craft beverage establishments. Establishments with existing permitted outdoor seating areas do not need to apply for a TAP unless the business is planning to expand its seating area. For more information and how to apply, please click here.
- Coles District Staff
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
Eligibility Expanded for Construction and “Rebuild! VA” Grants Renovation Permit Rebate
The Virginia Small Business Financing Authority launched the Rebuild! VA program to help small businesses and non-profits in Virginia effected by The Construction and Renovation Permit Rebate COVID-19. Those approved for a Rebuild VA grant program offers rebates of up to $2,000 for may receive up to 3 times their average monthly permitting fees for any upfit renovations and new eligible expenses up to a maximum of $100,000. construction projects. Projects which may be eligible must be less than 100,000 square feet in Eligibility for the program has been expanded, and size and for commercial real estate projects only. now includes to all types of Virginia small Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis businesses. Any small business or nonprofit with through June 30th, 2021, or as long as funds $10,000,000 or less in gross revenue or with 250 or remain availible. fewer employees now may apply. To learn more about this program and to apply, Businesses that previously received a Rebuild VA please click here. grant will receive a second award correlated with the updated guidelines. For more information on this program, more - Coles District Staff eligibility requirements, and how to apply, please visit the Rebuild! VA website.
- Coles District Staff
ELEVATE Program Provides Assistance for Workers and Businesses Effected by COVID-19
The Prince William County Department of Economic Development has partnered with Virginia Career Works (VCW) to launch ELEVATE. This program offers career training for those that are unemployed or underemployed due to the COVID-19 crisis. Eligible participants can receive free training at Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) and obtain certifications in the fields of IT & computer skills, healthcare & dental, trades and industries, ESL, and professional services. Career coaching, subsidized work experiences, and financial coaching may also be offered to participants. Resources are now available for both job seekers and employers. Please click here more information on the ELEVATE program and to get started.
- Coles District Staff
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
Development Services helps 250 Startups, Entrepreneurs Open for Business
The Department of Development Services’ Small Business Project Management Program (SBPM) today announced 250 small businesses have opened January through October 2020. Twenty-six new businesses and three expanding businesses opened their doors in October. The monthly results are consistent with 2019, except for April, May, and June, that were impacted by the COVID-19 Pandemic. Now more than ever, it is important customers check-in with the SBPM before they begin, to avoid costly mistakes and/or identify critical issues to address, that takes them away from the singular goal of opening a business. The goals of the SBPM are to provide a consistent message (eliminating confusion for the owner) and to resolve permit issues in a timely manner, which allows customers to move through the development process as swiftly as possible. Since the county reopened its buildings in July, SBPM Program Managers have adapted new methods, increased online communications and are able to provide further support to customers to open their businesses, within an anticipated timeframe. Prince William County has long recognized the importance of small businesses and the pivotal role they play in the community. In 2019, the county sharpened its focus on small business and entrepreneurs and took steps to ensure that necessary service offerings are in place, administered by an experienced team of Program Managers, who specialize and provide expertise in land and building development processes. As well as a more integrated network of county and business partner organizations. Ask for advice at [email protected] or 703-792-6930.
- Prince William County Department of Development Services
SBA and Treasury Announce Simpler PPP Forgiveness for Loans of $50,000 or Less
The U.S. Small Business Administration, in consultation with the Treasury Department, released a simpler loan forgiveness application for Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans of $50,000 or less. This action streamlines the PPP forgiveness process to provide financial and administrative relief to America’s smallest businesses while also ensuring sound stewardship of taxpayer dollars. Please see the documents below: Click here to view the simpler loan forgiveness application.
Click here to view the instructions for completing the simpler loan forgiveness application.
Click here to view the Interim Final Rule on the simpler forgiveness process for loans of $50,000 or less. - Prince William County Department of Economic Development
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
County Landfill Update Development Services Drop-Off Program
Since October 11th, the county’s trash and recycling programs have resumed their Sunday hours from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Although previously shut The Prince William County Development Services down, the Household Hazardous Waste Collection Building Drop-Off Program is a service that and Electronics Recycling programs have restarted provides customers 24/7 access to a single outdoor, their normal operations Wednesdays and Saturdays weather-proof container to deliver eligible project from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM at the landfill. submissions and permit applications. This is for customers who want to submit hardcopy The Solid Waste Division’s facilities continue to applications after-hours and on weekends, do not have certain restrictions. Their staff are unable to want to wait in the building, or use permit-runners. assist citizens with unloading their vehicles, and social distancing is required. Only credit or debits The drop-off container is a large, blue, metal cards can be used for payment, as cash and checks weather-resistant mailbox located at the front door are not accepted at this time. Bulky items and of the Plaza entrance of the Development Services construction debris can only be brought to the Building at 5 County Complex Court. Documents Landfill, and the Donation Center and donation are retrieved Monday through Friday at 7:45 AM bins are still unavailable. and 3:45 PM. For a list of eligible documents which can be dropped off, and for more information on this - Coles District Staff program, please click here. For general inquired, you can send an email to [email protected] or call (703) 792-3091.
- Coles District Staff
Deadline Extended for Second Half of Real Estate Taxes
The Prince William Board of County Supervisors extended the payment deadline for the second-half of 2020 Real Estate taxes for both commercial and residential properties. The original deadline of December 5th has been moved to February 3rd, 2021. To pay real estate taxes online, please visit tax.pwcgov.org. For more details, please visit the Taxpayer Ser- vices website. If you have questions about your bill, you can contact Taxpayer Services by phone (703) 792- 6710 or email at [email protected].
- Coles District Staff
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
Supervisor Vega Recognizes Indian American Heritage Month
On November 24th, Supervisor Vega read a proclamation establishing November as the National American Indian Heritage Month in Prince William County. This month is to recognize the rich history and Supervisor Vega culture of American Indians and acknowledge these Reads Proclamation communities many contributions to our county. Recognizing 79th If you would like to read Supervisor Vega’s proclamation, please click here. Anniversary of Attacks on Pearl Harbor
- Coles District Staff On December 1st read a proclamation on behalf of the Prince William Daughters of the American Get Your Art On! Revolution recognizing and remembering the 79th anniversary of the attacks on Pearl Harbor.
The attacks, which triggered a three and half year Every Tuesday, the Prince William Arts Council will American and Allied commitment to save the world be spotlighting an artists or arts organization from the Axis powers, claimed the lives of 2,403 serving the Greater Prince William Area, including Americans. Prince William County, Manassas, and Manassas On Sunday, December 7th, we remember those who Park. so valiantly sacrificed their lives to defend this great You can view the archive of videos of Prince nation. William Arts Council artists by visiting their Get Your Art On page. - Coles District Staff
- Coles District Staff
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
Dog Licensing Program Changes
Effective Nov. 1, 2020, Prince William County has outsourced the dog licensing program to PetData, Inc., a company that provides animal licensing services throughout the United States. Prince William County no longer processes dog licenses at the counter, by mail or online. PetData handles everything from mailing animal licensing notices to processing payments and entering data to answering phone calls from pet owners to online pet licensing. To ensure dogs are properly licensed going forward, please read the following important information carefully:
To License a Pet Online: Go to www.petdata.com/pwc and under License Now, click "Online." (The owner may upload or submit the pet's rabies certificate via fax, mail or email later.) All major credit cards are accepted, and a $2.00 convenience fee applies per transaction. Owners may license multiple pets (up to four) in one transaction. To license more than four pets, contact the Zoning Office at 703-792-6830 or [email protected] to obtain a kennel license.
To License a Pet by Mail: Download an application from www.petdata.com/pwc and mail it with a copy of the pet's current rabies vaccination certificate and a check or money order made payable to Prince William County to: Prince William County Pet Licensing, c/o PetData, PO Box 141929, Irving TX 75014-1929. Cash is not accepted. Paperwork is not returned.
New Tags for 2021: The 2021 Prince William County license tag includes important free benefits. To access these benefits, once an owner receives a tag, (s)he should scan the QR code on the tag using a smartphone camera. This provides access to the PetHub "Activate Your Tag" webpage. From there, an owner can create a free account, sign up to receive found pet alerts, keep a pet's medical history in one place and more.
For all licensing questions, contact PetData at 1-888-723-7128 or through the website at www.petdata.com/ pwc.
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
Inova Hosts Free Flu Shot Clinics for the Uninsured
Inova Cares Clinic for Families are now offering free flu vaccines for uninsured citizens while supplies last. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that adults and children age 6 months and older get an annual flu shot, as this is the best way to prevent the flu.
Flu shots at these clinics are available by appointment only. To schedule your flu shot appointment, please call one of the Inova locations below:
Inova Cares Clinic for Families – Alexandria 4700 King St., Suite 100 – 571.665.6599
Inova Cares Clinic for Families – Annandale 7617 Little River Tpke., Suite 850 – 571.665.6636
Inova Cares Clinic for Families – Manassas 8051 Sudley Rd. – 571.719.4180
Inova Cares Clinic for Families – Sterling 46440 Benedict Dr., Suite 208 – 571.665.6526
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
Wreaths Across America Salvation Army at Quantico Cemetery Christmas Kettle Volunteer Opportunities
An annual tradition taking place across the United States every holiday season, Wreaths Across America is “committed to teaching younger The tradition of the Salvation Army’s "Christmas generations about the value of their freedoms, and Kettle" is believed to have started in 1891. The the importance of honoring those who sacrificed so funds raised by bell ringers allow the Salvation much to protect those freedoms.” Though the Army to have year-round impact in the community outdoor event was originally cancelled due to in the form of homeless shelters, social services COVID, the President directed the Secretary of the assistance, disaster relief, children’s programs, Army to keep the event on. rehabilitation services, combating human trafficking, and more. This year’s wreath laying at Quantico National Cemetery will take place from December 16th to If you would like to volunteer to be a Christmas December 19th and is organized by the Northern Kettle bell ringer this year, you can sign up by Virginia Veterans Association. wreath laying, visiting the Register to Ring website either as an buying wreaths or volunteering. individual or as a group. On the site you can also become a virtual Christmas Kettle ringer and If you would like to volunteer to help lay wreaths, encourage your friends to donate on social media. you can secure a spot by clicking here. To volunteer to help with coordination and distribution of If you would like to learn more about the Salvation wreaths, visit this page to sign up. For more Army’s mission and what they do, you can visit information, or to sponsor a wreath, please visit the their website. Wreaths Across America page for Quantico National Cemetery. - Coles District Staff
- Coles District Staff
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
Un-Trim-A-Tree Toys for Tots Program Holiday Gift Program
The Coles District office is accepting donations this holiday season for the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve: The Un-Trim-A-Tree Holiday Gift Program is a very Toys for Tots Foundation! special program that serves children and seniors in need. Each year this holiday program provides gifts Please feel free to swing by our office during the to thousands of our neighbors here in the greater week from 9:00AM to 5:00PM if you would like to Prince William community. We partner with local provide new, unwrapped toys for children in need. churches, clubs and businesses to bring a brighter Donations will be accepted until December 12th. holiday season to local children of the community. Thank you! Last year Un-Trim-A-Tree served over 5,200 children and 200 seniors. We hope we can count on your support again this year. - Supervisor Vega Children are provided two gifts per child, valued at not more than $75 per child. This ensures that all children are treated equally. Bull Run Festival of Lights Donations of Senior Baskets are also accepted and
will be given to homebound seniors throughout the community. Baskets could include card games, Every year from Thanksgiving until just after New crossword puzzles or other suitable activities as well Year’s Day, you can experience NOVA Park’s Bull as little treats. Hand cream, warm socks, lap throws Run Festival of Lights. The 2020 Festival of Lights or wraps are also popular. is 2.5 miles illuminated by holiday light displays It’s so easy to join us! Simply fill out and submit which you can experience from the comfort of your this donor form which tells us how many children vehicle. This year’s event will run Monday to you would like to buy for. We will send you their Thursday from 5:30PM to 9:30PM, and Friday, wish list, and you’ll have tons of fun shopping for Saturday, Sunday, and Holiday nights from 5:30 this child. What a wonderful way to share the true PM to 10:00PM until January 10th. meaning of the holidays with your family! You can take $5 off you purchase Monday-Thursday If you would like additional information, please call tickets online using the promo code WEB20. For Bonnie Fulford at 703.369.5292 or email more information and to purchase tickets, you can [email protected]. visit the NOVAParks site.
- Volunteer Prince William - Coles District Staff
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
Tom Smith Becomes Joe Gilkerson Becomes Director of Public Works Director of Human Mr. Smith’s biography can be found below Resources
Mr. Gilkerson’s biography can be found “Tom Smith has a Bachelor of Science in Civil below Engineering from Rutgers University, a Master of
Science in Environmental Engineering from George Washington University, and is a licensed “Joe Gilkerson has more than 20 years of professional engineer in Virginia. He has more than experience in human resources and leadership 40 years of experience as an engineering manager development. Prior to being appointed as Human in water resources, wastewater, stormwater and Resources Director for Prince William County, Joe solid waste projects in both the private and public held human resources positions at the department sector. For the past 32 years, as the Assistant head level in multiple industries, to include private Director of Public Works for Solid Waste, he has sector, local and federal government, and higher planned and implemented comprehensive solid education. Prior to his civilian career, Joe served in waste management programs including landfill the Marine Corps as an Infantry Unit Leader with a expansion and development, recycling collection, tour as a Drill Instructor /Senior Drill Instructor at processing and marketing, yard waste composting, Parris Island, SC. Joe has a Bachelor of Science and landfill gas to energy projects. He recently degree in Business Management, a Master of developed and implemented a long term plan to Science degree in Organizational Leadership, a turn the landfill into a community resource by Graduate Certificate Program in Local Government protecting the environment, developing renewable Management from Virginia Tech and has earned energy projects and implementing educational the Senior Professional in Human Resources programs for students and the general public.” certification from the Society of Human Resources Management and the Senior Certified Professional designation from the International Public Management Association (IPMA) for Human Resources. Joe is the past Virginia chapter president for IPMA-VA (2010-2011). Additionally, Joe completed the Leading, Educating, And Developing (LEAD) program from the University of Virginia; and he currently serves on the Veterans Advisory Board for the International City/County Management Association.”
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
Matt Villareale Becomes Director of Facilities and Fleet Management
Mr. Villareale’s biography can be found below
Matt Villareale has more than 20 years of experience in the public works industry. For the past 15 years, he has served the Prince William community by working for the county’s Department of Public Works in several roles, including as a Management & Fiscal Analyst, Fleet Management Division Chief and Deputy Director of Public Works. Prior to coming to Prince William County, he worked for five years with the City of Dublin, Ohio, Department of Service. Matt is very active in the American Public Works Association (APWA), currently serving on multiple committees and served as the president of the local Mid- Atlantic Chapter in the past. He has a Bachelor of Science degree from West Virginia University and a Master of Public Administration from The Ohio State University.
VRE Welcomes Back Riders with Health and Safety Top of Mind
As more Coles District residents return to work and the region’s roads become congested, many are rethinking their commutes. One option is the Virginia Railway Express (VRE), which has taken a variety of precautions to protect the health and safety of its passengers. These measures include an enhanced cleaning regimen, installation of social-distancing decals and hand-sanitizer dispensers on rail cars and platforms, and a facial covering requirement. To ensure social distancing, decals guide riders to window seats in every other row. Only 45 of 130 seats in any rail car are available to passengers. Currently, no more than 50 percent of those available seats are in use. VRE’s train utilization web page helps riders find the train that best matches their social-distance comfort level. The rail system closely monitors ridership and has been adding and lengthening trains to allow for proper social distancing. VRE cleans it trains twice a day. Overnight cleanings use acidic electrolyzed water, a potent yet nonirritating disinfectant. The acid produced by electrolyzing the water can be 100 times more powerful than the active ingredient in bleach. Produced on demand, this environmentally friendly product uses only salt, tap water, and electricity.
VRE has four stations in Prince William County – Woodbridge, Quantico and Rippon on its Fredericksburg Line and Broad Run on its Manassas Line. The rail service is operating on a reduced schedule, with nine trains running northbound weekday mornings and southbound in the evenings. VRE’s mobile app allows for the contactless purchase and validation of tickets. As Prince William County residents head back to work, VRE is welcoming them back in the safest and healthiest way possible. Learn more at vre.org.
- The Virginia Railway Express
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
Cat Saved From Tree Posted November 15th on Facebook by IAFF 2598
Ok, ok ..... pretty cliché, but today Company 26 preformed a daring cat rescue! Given time, cats will remove themselves from the tree when they feel as though they are safe to come down. However, sometimes the cat’s humans get anxious and put themselves in harms way trying to get their fur ball down. In these cases, we see many untrained people injured doing something out of their comfort zone. Give the cats time and a bowl of food at the base of the tree and whiskers will come down. Well done Company 26! #Local2598
Prince William County Creates ‘Racial and Social Justice Commission’
On October 20th, the Prince William County Board of Supervisors created a “Racial and Social Justice Commission” to examine whether racism is a serious issue in regards to county policing, public school education, and the overall provision of government services. Originally requested in June by Supervisor Margaret Franklin as a temporary “Cultural Diversity” Task Force, Franklin made a motion to change the name and to change the function of the group from a temporary task force to a permanent taxpayer funded commission. Raul Torres, Executive Director of the Human Rights Commission, tasked with examining and ruling on issues of discrimination in the county, recommended the temporary task force and also felt the new commission to be redundant given the Human Right’s Commission’s established scope. Supervisors Vega, Candland, and Lawson objected to the creation of the new commission based on this redundancy and inquired of staff and other Supervisors for examples of racial discrimination within the county’s police department, county schools, or in the allocation of county services. No examples were offered.
- Coles District Staff
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
December Board of Supervisors Meetings
December 1st 2:00 PM Regular Meeting December 8th 2:00 PM/7:00 PM Work Sessions December 15th 2:00 PM/7:30 PM Regular Meeting
All Board of County Supervisors Meetings Are Broadcast Live: • Comcast: Channel 23 • Verizon: Channel 37 • County Website: pwcgov.org/bocs
Links To Watch Recent Board of Supervisors Meetings
October 6th 2:00 PM Regular Meeting October 13 2:00PM Work Session October 20th 2:00PM Regular Meeting November 17 2:00PM Regular Meeting December 1st 2:00PM Regular Meeting
December Planning Commission Meetings
December 9th 7:00 PM Regular Meeting
December 16th 7:00 PM Regular Meeting
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November & December 2020 10th Edition
Board / Commission / Committee Meetings
Animal Advisory Committee Northern VA Regional Commission December 15th at 6:45 PM December 10th 7:30 Virtual Zoon Meeting Arts Council Parks & Recreation Commission Dec 8th at 6:30 PM December 11 6:30PM Helwig Park Administrative Building Webex Virtual, invite sent to all members. Commission on Aging Planning Commission December 15th 10:00 AM December 9th 7:00 PM December 16 6:00PM– Work session Virtual McCoart Building, Board Chambers Board of Zoning Appeals PRTC December 21st 2:00PM December 3rd 7:00PM McCoart Building, Board Chambers youtube.com/PRTCtransit
https://www.pwcgov.org/government/dept/ planning/Pages/Planning-Commission.aspx Community Services Board Trails & Blueways Council December 17 6:30 PM No meeting scheduled for December McCoart Building, Powell’s Creek Conference Room
Historical Commission School Board December 8th 7:30 December 2 6:00PM Development Services Building, Room 202 A&B December 17 6:00PM Meeting Schedule Watch at pwcstv.com Human Rights Commission Service Authority December 10 7:30PM No December meeting McCoart Building, Board Chambers
Regional Jail Board Social Services Advisory Board No meeting scheduled No December meeting
Library Board VRE Operations Board December 3 6:30 December 3rd 4:00PM Library Administrative Support Center Chinn library PRTC Boardroom
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November & December 2020 10th Edition Contact Information
Coles District Supervisor Yesli Vega
(703) 792-4620 | [email protected] | [email protected]
Board of Supervisors
District Name Phone Email Address Chair At-Large Ann Wheeler (703) 792-4640 [email protected] Brentsville Jeanine Lawson (703) 792-6190 [email protected] Gainesville Pete Candland (703) 792-6195 [email protected] Neabsco Victor Angry (703) 792-4667 [email protected] Occoquan Kenny Boddye (703) 792-4643 [email protected] Potomac Andrea Bailey (703) 792-4645 [email protected] Woodbridge Margaret Franklin (703) 792-4646 [email protected]
School Board
District Name Phone Email Address Chair At-Large Babur Lateef (571) 353-6469 [email protected] Brentsville Adele Jackson (703) 791-8709 [email protected] Coles Lisa Zargarpur (703) 791-8709 [email protected] Gainesville Jennifer Wall (703) 791-8709 [email protected] Neabsco Diane Raulston (571) 251-3467 [email protected] Occoquan Lillie Jessie (571) 659-1636 [email protected] Potomac Justin Wilk (703) 791-8709 [email protected] Woodbridge Loree Williams (571) 242-8259 [email protected]
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November & December 2020 10th Edition Contact Information
Supervisor Vega’s Citizen Appointments
Airport Authority, Stafford Regional Desi Arnaiz [email protected] Animal Advisory Committee Ron Crigger [email protected] Architectural Review Board Michael Garcia [email protected] Board of Equalization Willie Deutsch [email protected] Board of Zoning Appeals Davon Gray [email protected] Commission on Aging Chris Dorcsis [email protected] Community Services Board Pat Sowers [email protected] DCSM / Zoning Ordinance Advisory Committee Steve Mitchell [email protected] Historical Commission John DePue [email protected] Historical Commission Erin Shockley [email protected] Housing Board Robert Gudz [email protected] Industrial Development Authority VACANT Lake Jackson Sanitary District Advisory Cmte Bill Berry [email protected] Lake Jackson Sanitary District Advisory Cmte Howard Smith [email protected] Lake Jackson Sanitary District Advisory Cmte Jason Curtis [email protected] Lake Jackson Sanitary District Advisory Cmte Michael Trentacoste [email protected] Lake Jackson Sanitary District Advisory Cmte Lois McPherson [email protected] Lake Jackson Sanitary District Advisory Cmte Rhonda Craighead [email protected] Lake Jackson Sanitary District Advisory Cmte Carol Charsky [email protected] Library Board Catherine Turner [email protected] Parks and Recreation Committee Jane Beyer [email protected] Persons with Disabilities Sarah Pitkin [email protected] Planning Commission Joe Fontanella [email protected] Trails and Blueways Council Michael DePue [email protected] Trails and Blueways Council Eric VanNortwick [email protected] Prince William County Arts Council Ron Crigger [email protected] Racial and Social Justice Commission Charles Haddow [email protected] Service Authority Paul O'Meara [email protected] Social Services Advisory Board Jacob Mosser [email protected] Solid Waste Citizens Advisory Group Harris Glasgow [email protected] Solid Waste Citizens Advisory Group Joseph Chisholm [email protected] Solid Waste Citizens Advisory Group James Gestrich [email protected] Solid Waste Citizens Advisory Group Mark Bonner [email protected] Solid Waste Citizens Advisory Group Dave Watjen [email protected] Strategic Plan Development Team Martin Jeter [email protected] Taxicab Review Board Ellen Miles [email protected] Weapons Control Committee Robert Gudz [email protected]
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November & December 2020 10th Edition Contact Information
Statewide Officials
Governor Ralph Northam (804) 786-2211 | [email protected]
Lieutenant Governor Justin Fairfax (804) 786-2078 | [email protected]
Attorney General Mark Herring (804) 786-2071 | [email protected]
State Senate
Name Capitol Phone District Phone Email Address 13th John Bell (804) 698-7513 (571) 367-9080 [email protected] 28th Richard Stuart (804) 698-7528 (804) 493-8892 [email protected] 29th Jeremy McPike (804) 698-7529 (571) 316-0581 [email protected] 36th Scott Surovell (804) 698-7536 (571) 249-4484 [email protected] 39th George Barker (804) 698-7539 (703) 303-1426 [email protected]
House of Delegates
Name Capitol Phone District Phone Email Address 2nd Jennifer Carroll Foy (804) 698-1002 (571) 989-1713 [email protected] 13th Danica Roem (804) 698-1013 (571) 393-0242 [email protected] 31st Elizabeth Guzman (804) 698-1031 (571) 403-1213 [email protected] 40th Daniel Helmer (804) 698-1040 N/A [email protected] 50th Lee Carter (804) 698-1050 (571) 606-7299 [email protected] 51st Hala Ayala (804) 698-1051 N/A [email protected] 52nd Luke Torian (804) 698-1052 (703) 785-2224 [email protected] 87th Suhas Subramanyam (804) 698-1087 N/A [email protected]
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November & December 2020 10th Edition Contact Information
U.S. Senate
Name Capitol Phone District Phone Timothy Kaine (202) 224-4024 (703) 361-3192 Mark Warner (202) 224-2023 (703) 442-0670
U.S. House of Representatives
Name Capitol Phone District Phone 1st Robert Wittman (202) 225-4261 (540) 659-2734 10th Jennifer Wexton (202) 225-5136 (703) 234-3800 11th Gerry Connolly (202) 225-1492 (571) 408-4407
County Departments
Adult Detention Center (703) 792-6420 Juvenile & Domestic Relations Court (703) 792-6160 Area Agency on Aging (703) 792-6374 Management and Budget (703) 792-6720 Circuit Court (703) 792-6015 Neighborhood Services (703) 792-7018 Commonwealth's Attorney (703) 792-6050 Office of Elections (703) 792-6470 Community Services - Manssas (703) 792-7800 Parks and Recreation (703) 792-7060 Community Services - Woodbridge (703) 792-4900 Planning Office (703) 792-7615 County Attorney (703) 792-6620 Police Department (Non-Emergency) (703) 792-6500 Criminal Justice Services - Manassas (703) 792-6065 Prince William Health District (703) 792-7300 Criminal Justice Services - Woodbridge (703) 792-4984 Public Libraries (703) 792-6100 Development Services (703) 792-6930 Real Estate Assessments (703) 792-6780 Economic Development (703) 792-5500 Sheriff's Office (Non-Emergency) (703) 792-6070 Environmental Services (703) 792-7070 Social Services (703) 792-7500 Executive Management (703) 792-6600 Solid Waste Management (703) 792-6254 Fire and Rescue (Non-Emergency) (703) 792-6800 Taxpayer Services (703) 792-6710 General District Court (703) 792-6141 VDOT (800) 367-7623 Housing and Community Development (703) 792-7530 Virginia Cooperative Extension (703) 792-4371 Human Rights Commission (703) 792-4680 Zoning Office (703) 792-7615
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