Public Meetings - Leesburg, Virginia

The Leesburg Town Council held a work session on June 8, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber at Town Hall. The council discussed four main items: a proposed running bamboo containment ordinance, the allocation of new disposable plastic bag tax revenue, an update on the six-point plan for site plan review process improvements, and the future of the airport control tower. The council also approved a proclamation request and entered a closed session to discuss legal and personnel matters related to the airport. Discussion Items - Running Bamboo Containment Regulation (Keith Markel, staff): Staff presented background on running bamboo, an invasive plant that spreads via rhizomes, and proposed a containment ordinance modeled after Loudoun and Fairfax counties. The ordinance would be enforced through the nuisance code with a civil penalty capped at $50 for the first offense (set by the state). The ordinance would not ban planting but would require containment to prevent spread onto neighboring properties. Councilmember Cummings expressed opposition to fines, preferring an educational approach, and suggested using the bamboo at Rock Spring Farm for a public workshop. Councilmember Kurkowski asked about retroactive application and was told complaints would be handled regardless of how long the bamboo had been there. After discussion, the council indicated support for moving forward with the ordinance, with the option to bring back a version with or without fines. The mayor confirmed four heads nodded in favor. - Use of Disposable Plastic Bag Tax Revenue (Keith Markel, staff): Staff explained that new state legislation (passed in 2026, thanks to Delegate Martinez) allows the town to receive a portion of the county's disposable plastic bag tax, estimated at $40,000 in 2027. Revenue is expected to decline as habits change. State law restricts spending to four categories: environmental cleanup, educational programs to reduce waste, mitigating pollution and litter, and providing reusable bags to SNAP/WIC recipients. Staff presented four options: (1) a pilot downtown restaurant food waste composting program (estimated $500 startup + $40,000/year); (2) expansion of the public food waste drop-off program at Liberty Street to a permanent site plus a second location on the east side (estimated $5,000 construction + $10,000/year total); (3) funding the existing Recycle Coach app ($12,000/year); or (4) accumulating the revenue for a future large project. Councilmember Cummings expressed skepticism about restaurant participation, noting many won't even recycle glass. Multiple council members favored option 2, citing high public demand for additional drop-off sites. The council agreed to move forward with option 2, with the understanding that leftover funds could be used for Recycle Coach or saved. The mayor confirmed four hands in support. - Six Point Plan for Site Plan Review Process Improvements – Quarterly Update (James David, Community Development): Staff provided an update on the 23 process improvements from the six-point plan (updating regulatory documents, behavior change, organizational strategy, changing narrative, quality applications, expedited review). Five of 23 improvements have been completed: simplified site plan fees (base fee of $10,000 + $200/acre, effective April 28), creation of an online DCSM modification form, hosting the annual engineering summit (May 5, with over 50 guests and 25 staff), forming a technical review committee for the DCSM update, and launching a site plan metrics dashboard (average calendar days for submissions). The council discussed the land development advisory group, which is ad hoc but subject to Virginia public meeting laws (notice, minutes as best practice). The council expressed support for the progress. - Airport Control Tower (Scott Kaufman, Airport Director; Travis Gunnells, Airport Commission Chair): Staff reviewed the history of the airport's remote tower (operated 2016-2023 via Saab, then terminated), the subsequent entry into the FAA's Federal Contract Tower Program, and the commitment to build a physical tower within five years. The FAA is now soliciting airports for a new remote tower program using a system from Frequentis (tested in Atlantic City, expected certification in September 2026). The airport commission analyzed both options and recommended a physical tower, citing risks of remote tower: new technology not yet certified, dependency on a single vendor, uncertain life-cycle costs, and potential network reliability issues. The FAA has provided $418,000 for siting/environmental studies, a grant for design (99% covered), and $4 million in IIJA funds for partial construction. The town is seeking additional federal funding. Council members expressed support for continuing with the physical tower, noting the progress already made and the commission's recommendation. The mayor confirmed four hands in favor of moving forward with the physical tower. Key Outcomes - Running Bamboo Regulation: The council directed staff to draft a containment ordinance, with the option to include or exclude fines, and to bring it back for a future vote. The council also expressed interest in an educational workshop using the town's bamboo at Rock Spring Farm. - Disposable Plastic Bag Tax Revenue: The council decided to allocate the revenue to expand the public food waste drop-off program (option 2), with a second site and permanent status for the Liberty Street site. Leftover funds may be used for the Recycle Coach app or saved for future projects. - Six Point Plan: The council received the quarterly update and noted the progress. No further action was taken. - Airport Control Tower: The council affirmed support for the physical tower, continuing with the current design and fundraising efforts. The remote tower remains a backup option should funding for the physical tower fall through. - Proclamation Request: The council approved a proclamation for Gene Lynette Mattis's 100th birthday, to be presented at the July 28 council meeting. - Closed Session: The council voted 7-0 to enter a closed session under Va. Code § 2.2-3711(A)(1) and (A)(7) to discuss real property interests at the airport and collective bargaining. After the closed session, the council certified that only exempt matters were discussed. The meeting was then adjourned.

This June 4, 2026 meeting of the Leesburg Planning Commission focused on a public hearing for the Liberty Hotel rezoning and special exception application, followed by staff reports, a discussion on the zoning ordinance rewrite schedule, and new business regarding transportation level-of-service analysis. The commission voted 4–2 (with one absent) to forward both the rezoning and the special exception to the Town Council with recommendations of approval. Consent Calendar - The agenda was adopted as submitted. - The minutes of the May 7, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak. Discussion Items - Liberty Hotel (TLZM-2022-0004 and TLSE-2022-0004): Staff presented a rezoning to rezone the 8.5-acre site (including 0.77 acres of former town right-of-way) from B3 and I-1 to B3, and a special exception to allow a six-foot parapet (two feet above the standard four-foot parapet). The proposal includes a 140-room hotel (70 TownePlace Suites, 70 Fairfield Inn & Suites) and two 10,000-square-foot commercial buildings along Russell Branch Parkway. Three modifications were requested: buffer yard adjacencies to Route 7 (limited by Dominion Power easement), side yard buffer requirements, and parking (281 spaces required; 243 after shared-use reduction; 272 proposed). The applicant proffered $60,600 in contributions, including $50,000 for off-site transportation improvements. The project is estimated to create 50 jobs and have a net positive fiscal impact of $388,166. Staff recommended approval. - Commissioner Barnes questioned the simultaneous construction of the hotel and retail buildings, asking that the retail be built at the same time as the hotel to avoid past issues of unbuilt commercial. The applicant stated the intent is to build all structures simultaneously, and staff noted the proffer requires all infrastructure (grading, landscaping, parking, sidewalks) to be completed with the hotel, but does not require the retail buildings themselves to be finished before hotel occupancy. After debate, the commission (4–2) expressed comfort with the proffer as written. - Commissioner Robinson raised concerns about the transportation level-of-service (LOS) analysis, noting that existing LOS at some intersections is already at "E" (Edward) while the town's Design and Construction Standards Manual requires "C" for new projects. She requested staff examine current intersection conditions, available legal options, and potential updates to the traffic study methodology. This was placed as new business for future discussion. - Zoning Ordinance Rewrite: Director David presented the tentative Town Council work plan, with kickoff on June 22, 2026, and anticipated public hearing in November 2026. The commission discussed lessons learned and agreed to cancel meetings on June 18 and July 2, consolidating to July 16 to allow staff and members a break after the intensive rewrite process. Key Outcomes - Rezoning Approval (TLZM-2022-0004): The commission voted 4–2 (one absent) to forward the rezoning to Town Council with a recommendation of approval, finding it meets TLZO Section 3.3.15 criteria. - Special Exception Approval (TLSE-2022-0004): The commission voted 4–2 (one absent) to forward the special exception for increased height to Town Council with a recommendation of approval, finding it meets Section 3.4.12 criteria. - Calendar Change: The commission voted to cancel the meetings of June 18 and July 2, 2026, and convene next on July 16, 2026. - New Business: Directed staff to prepare a scope of work to evaluate existing intersection level-of-service data, legal options, and potential updates to transportation analysis methods for future consideration.

The Environmental Advisory Commission (EAC) met on June 3, 2026, at 6:30 PM. The meeting covered a staff presentation on the town's landscape design process, approval of spending for FY26, and discussions on upcoming initiatives including the bamboo ordinance, bag tax revenue, and the Oops recycling campaign. The commission also debriefed the Keep Leesburg Beautiful flower and garden festival and the Golden Grabber awards. Consent Calendar - The agenda was approved by motion with a second. - The minutes from May 5, 2026 were approved as amended after corrections were noted (meeting disclosure reader and seconder for item three). Vote: 4-0 (Laura absent, not yet removed from present list). Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made. Discussion Items - Staff Presentation – Landscape Planning & Management: Melissa Westbrook, Urban Forester, presented an overview of how landscape design is handled across departments (Public Works, Parks, Community Development). Key guiding documents include the zoning ordinance, design and construction manual (DCSM), and internal policies like zero net loss of tree canopy. She outlined principles for sustainable landscape design: safety, biodiversity, resilience, stewardship, regeneration, function, and aesthetics. The town is updating species lists, removing invasive species, and compiling a tree inventory. Discussion included the possibility of a low-impact landscaping ordinance, bamboo ordinance, and partnerships with the Tree Commission. - Staff Updates: Deb S. reported that the stormwater resiliency plan kickoff has begun; the EAC will be a key stakeholder. The bamboo ordinance will be presented to Council on June 9, along with plans for spending bag tax revenue. The Oops recycling campaign launches June 15, targeting 100 homes per week in diverse areas. - FY26 Spending Request: The commission reviewed remaining funds ($2,102.57). Proposed purchases: tent walls ($147), grabbers ($208 for 20), string light recycling bins (two at $132 each), raccoon costume ($250), and sweatshirts for members (up to $50 each). After discussion, a motion was made to approve all these purchases, with a second, and passed unanimously. Leftover funds may be used for prizes for next year's flower festival. - Golden Grabber Ceremony Debrief: For the second year, winners did not attend the council ceremony. The commission discussed alternatives such as delivering awards in person or presenting at community events like First Friday or concert series. No final decision was made; further discussion is deferred. - Flower & Garden Festival Debrief: The commission reviewed feedback collected via the “wish tree” infographic. Responses included requests for more crosswalks, native plants, and water stations. The graphic may be posted on the EAC webpage and shared on social media. - Calendar & Attendance: Due to multiple absences expected in July, the commission decided to skip the July meeting. Members were reminded of the attendance policy (cannot miss three consecutive meetings). Key Outcomes - Motion approved: Purchase of tent walls, grabbers, string light recycling bins, raccoon costume, and sweatshirts for FY26, as presented. - No formal vote: On future Golden Grabber format or July meeting cancellation; discussion only. - Next steps: Staff will send links for sizes and proceed with procurement; web page updates to include outreach section; further discussion on Golden Grabber next meeting.

The Leesburg IT Advisory Commission met on June 2, 2026, at approximately 7:00 PM (as indicated by adjournment at 7:35 PM). The meeting was called to order by the Acting Chair, with a quorum of four members present. The agenda included approval of previous minutes, old business on a public outreach cybersecurity event, new business on the network administrator hiring process and the AI working group, and comments from commissioners and the IT director. Consent Calendar - The minutes from the May 5, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously (4-0) without changes. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public addressed the commission during the meeting. Discussion Items - Old Business – Public Outreach Event (Cybersecurity Presentation): Amanda had prepared a draft presentation on cybersecurity and AI safety for children ages 6–12. She had contacted Balch Library and proposed dates: June 22 (Monday), June 23 (Tuesday), or June 24 (Wednesday) from 6–8 PM, with a preference for Tuesday, June 23. Commissioners reviewed the presentation slides and expressed strong approval, noting the content was age-appropriate and engaging. They agreed to proceed with the June 23 date at Balch Library and directed that the PIO office be engaged for promotion. Amanda also suggested a future session on AI safety in July. - New Business – Network Administrator Interview Process: John reported that the position was advertised in April, receiving about 40 applicants. Six candidates were selected for interviews. One interview had been conducted the previous day; the remaining five were scheduled for Thursday, June 4. After interviews, candidates will undergo a practical lab exam. The new hire will work alongside the retiring network administrator for a couple of months and help with the SD‑WAN deployment. - New Business – AI Working Group Update: John provided an update on the town’s AI working group. The group has established policy guardrails and is engaging department representatives. Use cases are being collected, including a $6,000 saving identified by evaluating quotes with AI. Training classes (e.g., Mastering Copilot) are being offered to staff. The group is also exploring sandbox testing for workflow improvements. Commissioners discussed expanding training to field staff and potential integration with other town systems. - Commissioner Comments: No comments were offered by commissioners present. - Council Member Comments: Skipped due to absence of Council Member Steinberg. - Information Technology Director Comments (Acting Director John Callahan): John noted several upcoming items: the Granicus system (streaming, website, texting) renewal will be on a consent agenda for a three-year contract; Microsoft renewal is in progress; and a Comcast franchise agreement extension memo will be presented to the Town Council on June 23. The agreement covers only cable TV service. John also mentioned the evolving ATSC 3.0 broadcast standard and encouraged commissioners to follow the FCC process. Key Outcomes - Minutes Approved: Unanimous 4-0 vote. - Public Outreach Event: Commission agreed to hold the cybersecurity presentation on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, 6–8 PM at Balch Library, with promotion by the PIO office. - Network Administrator Hiring: Interview process ongoing; practical exam to follow; no decisions made yet. - AI Working Group: Continued development of use cases and training; no formal votes taken. - Upcoming Actions: The Granicus renewal will be considered by the Town Council as part of a consent agenda; the Comcast franchise agreement extension will be presented on June 23.

The Leesburg Traffic Commission met on June 2, 2026, to discuss traffic enforcement, pedestrian safety, speed studies, and coordination with other commissions. The meeting included a police report on selective enforcement, public comments, and decisions on future data collection. Consent Calendar - Approval of the minutes and agenda was moved, seconded, and passed without discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Mark Hunter, a resident of Tavistock, expressed concerns about speeding on Tavistock Drive and nearby roads, particularly near his son's bus stop. He reported observed speeds of 35–45 mph and requested police attention, emphasizing the danger for his son with autism. - A Hope Parkway resident (who also spoke during public comment earlier) discussed pedestrian safety at the intersection of Park Gate Drive and Hope Parkway, noting the hill and crosswalk visibility issues. He mentioned a child waiting to cross and asked for data on the worst speeding offenders. Discussion Items - Police Officer Report: The officer detailed selective enforcement activities since April 1, 2026. On Hope Parkway, 16.5 hours of enforcement yielded 10 contacts, with most speeders being local residents. On North King Bridged, 47 hours with 59 contacts. Other locations: Kincaid Blvd (closed, 13 hrs/4 contacts), Fort Evans at Golden Larch (active, 5 hrs/2 contacts), Cyclone and Gateway (active, 9.5 hrs/11 contacts), and 301 E Market St (active, 3 hrs/6 contacts). The officer noted that documented speeding on Hope Parkway was not as severe as perceived, but pedestrian concerns remain due to traffic volume. - Hope Parkway Pedestrian Safety: Staff noted that Hope Parkway is a collector road designed to carry traffic, with future development planned. A driver feedback sign showed an 85th percentile speed of 33 mph in a 25 mph zone. The commission discussed the need for pedestrian crossing data and considering a smart trailer in the other direction. The commission reaffirmed that lane narrowing is not supported by the board. - South King Street Speed Study: Staff reported concerns from business owners and residents about speeding and pedestrian safety near the W&OD Trail. A speed study at a location south of the trail would cost $185. The commission discussed dividing the corridor into segments and prioritizing pedestrian data later. A motion was made and seconded to conduct the speed study at a cost not to exceed $185. The motion passed unanimously. - North and Harrison Streets Driver Feedback Signs: Staff presented a proffer from the courthouse expansion project for driver feedback signs on North and Harrison Streets. The commission decided to first collect speed data to determine if speeding is an issue before using the funds. Data will be collected on North Street west of the parking lot and on Harrison Street just north of Andover Court NE. - Overnight Parking Lane Update: Staff informed the commission that a proposal to convert a travel lane to overnight parking was presented to the Town Council but did not move forward. No similar examples exist in other counties. - Coordination with Other Commissions: The commission discussed partnering with the tree commission on tree planting for traffic calming and with the parks and rec commission on a bicycle route map. It was agreed to develop specific project ideas before inviting those commissions. The item will be added to the July agenda. - Budget and Expenditures: The current balance is $436.46. Funds will be used for speed studies. Discussion of Fairview Street concerns (speeding and requests for stop signs) was deferred since no resident testified. The commission decided to turn the existing driver feedback sign on Fairview Street around to collect data in the opposite direction. - Additional Concerns: A commission member noted that trees on Battlefield Parkway near Tavistock Drive obstruct the view of traffic signals. Staff will investigate trimming or installing a warning sign. A missing school zone sign on Battlefield Parkway was also noted; staff will check as part of a school speed camera update. - Proactive Speed Study on Morven Park Road: The commission decided to proactively collect speed data on Morven Park Road between Idle and Heritage using speed tubes, before resident complaints arise. A motion was made, seconded, and passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Approved the meeting minutes and agenda. - Motion passed to conduct a speed study on South King Street south of the W&OD Trail (cost not to exceed $185). Vote: unanimous. - Motion passed to conduct a speed study on Morven Park Road between Idle and Heritage using speed tubes. Vote: unanimous. - The overnight parking lane proposal was not adopted. - Commission agreed to invite tree commission and parks commission with specific project proposals in future meetings. - Driver feedback sign on Fairview Street will be turned around to capture opposite-direction data. - Staff will investigate tree trimming or warning signs for the obscured traffic signal at Battlefield Parkway and Tavistock Drive.

The Leesburg Performing Arts Commission (PAC) held a regular meeting on May 28, 2026, beginning at 5:33 PM. The meeting was called to order with a four-person quorum (Marjorie arriving later). The agenda and minutes from the April meeting were adopted unanimously (4-0-0-3). A demographic survey announcement was made at the start, encouraging public participation via QR code. Public Comments & Testimony - No petitioners were present. No public comments were made. Discussion Items - Capstone Recital (June 12, 2026) – The commission discussed logistics for the upcoming capstone recital featuring a dance student from the School of Dance, scheduled for 7:00 PM at Ida Lee Recreation Center. Key points included RSVP management, catering (via Wegmans with a budget of $400), seating capacity (100–150), and set-up. Peter volunteered to meet with the dancer’s family at Ida Lee; Miriam agreed to create a unified social media post; commissioners will invite local organizations. Staff (Whitney) noted that the mother of the student had been contacting Tony with questions; Peter will follow up. The commission decided to re-issue the press release with an informal RSVP request (no link) and to gather head counts from personal outreach. - George Washington Music Concert (August 15, 2026) – The event was initially planned for St. James Episcopal Church. Commissioners Peter, Whitney, and Miriam toured the venue and identified security/accessibility issues. They propose moving the concert from the sanctuary to the fellowship hall, which has better restroom access but still requires checking accessibility at the Wort Street entrance. Marjorie suggested possibly dedicating the concert in memory of former music director Stephen Cooksey. The commission will discuss accessibility, dedication, and marketing at the June meeting. Pamela will contact the church to hold the date until June 30. - New Business – Mistletoe Market Roles – Discussion of assigning roles for the December 2026 Mistletoe Market event was postponed to the June meeting. Miriam will reach out to Leesburg Movement to see if they plan to participate and invite a representative to a future meeting. - Music & Memory Program – Marjorie proposed a new initiative to bring local performers to retirement homes. She will contact facilities to gauge interest, gather requirements (e.g., piano availability, accessibility), and develop a call to artists. The commission agreed to target performances between mid-January and early February 2027 to avoid holiday congestion. The program will use a $2,400 honorarium budget. - August 15 Call to Artists Update – Three applications were received by the May 28 deadline; a fourth potential applicant (a college student) asked about using arrangements from other composers. Staff deferred to the commission, which encouraged her to apply and specify the nature of her performance. The commission will review all applications at the June meeting and then prepare recommendations for Town Council. Key Outcomes - Votes/Decisions: - Agenda adopted (4-0-0-3). - April minutes adopted (4-0-0-3). - Motion to postpone Mistletoe Market role assignments to the June meeting passed (5-0-0-3) after discussion; Miriam will contact Leesburg Movement. - Motion to postpone 2027 capstone recital planning to July agenda passed unanimously. - Directives & Next Steps: - Peter: Meet with dancer’s family at Ida Lee, determine headcount and flooring needs. - Miriam: Create and share a social media post for the capstone recital; contact Leesburg Movement. - Pamela: Place food order with Wegmans via Whitney; follow up with St. James church (hold date to June 30; check accessibility at Wort Street entrance). - All commissioners: Recruit attendees for the June 12 recital (arrive at 6 PM). - Whitney: Send applied artists’ materials to commissioners by May 29; follow up with the applicant who emailed questions. - Marjorie: Create a call to artists template for the Music & Memory program; begin outreach to retirement homes. - Action Items Summary: - Peter (space logistics), Pamela (food order and venue follow-up), Miriam (social media and Leesburg Movement), Marjorie (venue check and Music & Memory), Whitney (artist applications and staff coordination).

The Leesburg Parks and Recreation Commission met on May 22, 2026, to discuss a range of topics including the Flower Garden event, e-bike enforcement, disc golf at West Park, multi-purpose trail connectivity, pickleball tournament promotion, the master plan adoption timeline, and capital improvement projects. The meeting was chaired by the commission chair and included staff updates and member comments. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (April 15, 2026): Motion to approve passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Yoga on Town Green: A member inquired about how a yoga teacher could offer classes on the town green. Staff clarified that if the teacher donates time as a public good and does not market her business, it would be permissible; charging a fee would require further review. - E-bikes on Trails: Members noted complaints about e-bikes speeding on trails. One member reported having witnessed it and directed complainants to contact the police department. Another member mentioned pending state legislation by Senator David Reed to address e-bike regulation. - Flower Garden Event Feedback: Members shared positive feedback from attendees, including a visitor from Baltimore who attends annually and praised the event. However, the number of landscape displays has decreased in recent years due to landscapers being busy. Vendor demand remains high, with about a third to a half of applicants turned away. Vendor satisfaction is generally high, with many selling out by Sunday. A member also mentioned that some attendees complained about lack of shade in certain areas. - Multi-Purpose Trail Gaps: A member described inconsistencies in multi-purpose trail widths and sudden crossings on Battlefield Parkway, making bike travel unsafe. He suggested the town map these trails to identify gaps and improve connectivity. He volunteered to help create such a map. Staff responded that a map exists from the Leesburg Bike Club but may not show all details. The member also questioned why some sections narrow to sidewalk width, citing a lack of standards for developers. - Disc Golf at West Park: Members discussed noise concerns raised by residents. One member, who is involved, reported that the Board of Supervisors approved the disc golf course and recommended noise reduction studies. Proposed solutions include additional landscaping, moving baskets further from homes, filling poles with sand, and adding rubber padding on poles. A member commented that disc golf noise is minimal, likening it to a golf ball dropping into a cup. A viral video of an opponent at the hearing was noted. - West Park Buffer Wall: A member reported that a resident is upset about a proposed buffer wall of mature trees along the parking lot near Country Club. The member clarified that the landscaping is intended to provide privacy for neighbors, but the residents prefer open access to the parking lot. Staff noted the trees will be 6–8 feet tall and will take time to mature. Discussion Items - Pickleball Promotional Items: The commission discussed ordering promotional pickleballs for the upcoming tournament. Options included printed balls with a logo or plain balls with a zip-tie tag and QR code. Staff noted that printed pickleballs have limited space, and printing could cost around $3 per ball. The budget is $2,500. A decision was made to order $2,000 worth of neon green outdoor pickleballs, design a simple logo (possibly incorporating Parks & Rec or Town of Leesburg colors), use a QR code tag for registration, and aim for a fall tournament to coincide with the opening of pickleball courts (expected October). Staff will procure the balls and arrange graphic design. - Master Plan Adoption Schedule: Staff presented a timeline: a rough word version will be sent to commissioners in early June, review at the June 17 meeting, then comments from other commissions in July, endorsement by the commission in August (possibly August 12), followed by planning commission endorsement (two meetings) and final council approval in November. The document will not be made public until the planning commission phase, though public can attend meetings. The commission agreed to the schedule. - CIP Project Updates: - Veterans Park: Ribbon cutting tentatively scheduled for late August, weather permitting. Will include a road, boat launch, primitive parking, and porta-johns. Later, bike and disc golf communities will coordinate routing. - Basketball Court: A scheduled closure was expedited when the contractor became available earlier than planned; social media notification went out hours after the decision. - Fox Reach Park backstop: Replacement work started unexpectedly early; staff are working to finish by Friday to avoid schedule impact. - Water Filling Stations: The fountain at the cabin will be replaced with a bottle-filling station (cost $5,000–$10,000). Future fountain replacements will incorporate bottle fillers as a standard. Adding a new station near the town green or tennis courts would require a water line extension and budget request. - Chestnut Oak Tree Planting: A ceremonial tree planted from an acorn from Mount Vernon was noted to have only two leaves initially; it is healthy but small. A plaque explains its origin. Key Outcomes - Minutes Approved from April 15, 2026. - Pickleball Promotional Items: Approved ordering $2,000 worth of neon green outdoor pickleballs. Staff will design a logo and QR code tag for tournament registration. A fall tournament (likely October) will be organized, with staff handling logistics and commissioners serving as event faces. - Master Plan Schedule Adopted: Timeline set with internal review in June, endorsement by the commission in August, planning commission review in September, and Town Council approval in November. The draft will remain internal until public comment period. - CIP Updates Noted: Veterans Park ribbon cutting in late August; basketball court closure expedited; Fox Reach Park fencing accelerated; water bottle filling station at cabin to be installed; future fountain replacements to include bottle fillers. - Multi-Purpose Trail Mapping: A member will coordinate with staff to obtain a trail map and propose improvements. - Disc Golf Noise Mitigation: The Board of Supervisors’ recommendations will be implemented; commission members expressed support for the course. Note: The meeting did not include formal votes beyond the consent calendar; all decisions were reached by consensus. No public testimony from non-commission members was recorded in the transcript.

The Leesburg Tree Commission met on May 20, 2026, at 7:00 PM to discuss tree planting events, maintenance issues, a proposed running bamboo ordinance, and the use of the tree fund. Key votes included supporting town debate on bamboo regulation and approving tree fund expenditures for maintenance. Consent Calendar - Approved the agenda as presented, with one abstention. Voted on May 20 meeting agenda. - Approved the April 14, 2026 meeting minutes unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made. Commissioners provided updates on various activities. Discussion Items - Spring Tree Giveaway and Tree Losses: Commissioner Tara thanked members for covering the Treesburg giveaway. Roughly 350 trees were ordered; about 75 were given away at one event, with leftover trees planted at Tuscarora Creek. Approximately 25% of street trees planted on North King Street died due to drought, late frost, and harsh winter. Replacement will occur in fall under warranty. - Flower & Garden Show After Action: The event distributed approximately 1,500 trees. Redbuds were the most popular, selling out quickly; oaks and hickories were less desired. Commissioners suggested introducing more small flowering trees like dogwoods or serviceberries next year. The survey of attendees was hampered by wind, and better sign placement (entrance/exit) was recommended for future events. - Arbor Day at Harper Park: Despite cold rain, the event was successful. Students recited poems and the commissioner demonstrated tree planting. - Semi-Quincentennial Tree Planting: Attendance was low (only a few officials and commissioners present). The tree is in a good location but showing sun stress. - Tree Walk Historical Trees: The dogwood tree (8) on the tree walk was killed by a car. Replacement options include the courthouse courtyard (healthy) or the chapel (tree is failing). Tree Walk trees at Morgan Park need TLC; some memorial trees are dying. - Commission Networking Event: Commissioners attended a cross‑commission meeting. The Arts Commission expressed interest in a “tree of life” sculpture. Collaboration with other commissions (e.g., Parks, Environmental) was discussed. - Running Bamboo Regulation: The Town Council is considering an ordinance similar to Loudoun County’s to control running bamboo encroachment. Commissioners debated enforcement challenges, costs to homeowners, and the need for assistance programs. A motion passed to support “town debate for consideration of a Leesburg ordinance and other means of control for the regulation of running bamboo.” The motion included civil penalties as an option. - Tree Fund Expenditure: Commissioners discussed using the balance of the tree fund (from developers when canopy requirements cannot be met) for tree maintenance (planting, pruning, watering). A motion passed to request the Council use the fund for fiscal year 2027 for maintenance, recognizing that grants seldom cover upkeep. Key Outcomes - Motion on Running Bamboo: Passed unanimously (voice vote). The commission will submit its support for continued Council discussion, along with concerns about enforcement and homeowner assistance. - Motion on Tree Fund: Passed unanimously (voice vote). The commission will recommend using the fund balance for tree maintenance in FY2027. - Next Meeting: Scheduled for June 23, 2026 (not June 16), at 7:00 PM, same location. August meeting was left undecided pending further discussion.

The Leesburg Board of Architectural Review (BAR) held its business meeting at 7:00 p.m. on May 20, 2026, in Council Chambers at 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia, with all seven members present. The board adopted the revised agenda 7–0 after removing the 203 Harrison Street SE sign plan (TLHPBR2025-0083) for re-advertising to June because missing PIN numbers were not captured in adjacent property owner notifications. The April 22, 2026 business meeting minutes were approved 6–0–1, with Tom O’Neill abstaining. Rick Brown recused himself from items TLHPBR2026-0012 and TLHPBR2026-0014. Meeting Administration - Roll call established a quorum; Chair Helen Aikman presided. - Agenda adopted 7–0, with item 8b removed. - Minutes approved 6–0–1; member disclosures were noted. Consent Calendar - TLHPBR2026-0011, 214 Town Branch Terrace SW deck replacement: approved 7–0 as a consent item, including the stated findings and conditions. No board member or member of the public requested full deliberation. Public Comments & Testimony - No one spoke during the general public comment period. - No testimony was offered on the 213 West Market Street or 212 South King Street applications. - Valerie Baudouin, speaking for the George C. Marshall International Center, supported the 206 East Market Street project as good for downtown but expressed concern that rooftop equipment and trash enclosures could be visible from Dodona Manor, particularly in winter. Discussion Items - TLHPBR2026-0010 – 213 West Market Street (sunroom addition): Staff described the property as a contributing vernacular resource built circa 1878, with an existing rear addition of unknown age. The proposed rear sunroom was generally appropriate in size, but staff raised concerns about drawings marked only as typical, a conflict between the submitted drawings and the plat, and the proposed sliding contemporary windows and foam-filled materials, which staff considered inappropriate for a historic building. Applicants Lisa and Robert Merhout said their contractor was not present and agreed to defer. Board members advised providing accurate scaled drawings showing how the addition ties into the existing roof, clarifying the addition’s orientation, submitting material and window samples, and using more traditional materials. The BAR deferred the case to the June 17, 2026 business meeting 7–0. - TLHPBR2025-0083 – 203 Harrison Street SE (Market Station comprehensive sign plan): Removed from the agenda because the public hearing had not been properly advertised; staff will re-advertise and bring it back in June. No public hearing was opened. - TLHPBR2026-0012 – 212 South King Street (amendment to TLHPBR2025-0053): Staff reported that six-over-six windows were mistakenly installed in place of the approved two-over-two windows on a contributing c. 1895 structure, and the error was discovered through a complaint and required site visits. Staff’s window survey found 22 six-over-six windows in the area; 15 were appropriate for their buildings’ ages, while 7 should have been two-over-two, and staff recommended that the approved two-over-two configuration remain the standard. Applicant Dylan McGreevy of Clay Construction acknowledged the error and said the six-over-six sashes could be removed and reused elsewhere. Board consensus was that the windows must be corrected to two-over-two; the door/transom changes raised more flexibility, but procedural questions about whether to approve, deny, or condition the application led the BAR to defer to the June 16, 2026 business meeting. The motion carried with no dissent (noted as 7–0 in the transcript, with Rick Brown recused). - TLHPBR2026-0014 – 206 East Market Street (mixed-use new construction): Staff presented the proposal for a mostly demolished, non-contributing former piano store site: mixed-use building with retail/restaurant space, five residential units, and first-floor parking. Key staff issues included a potential conflict with an existing town water line, front and rear setback questions, rooftop equipment height and screening, extensive use of faux windows, and a large metal canopy. Board feedback was split: several members praised the pedestrian-scale front and stepbacks and the street activity it would create, while others, especially Tom O’Neill and Julie Pastor, said the contrast between the traditional street-front facades and the modern upper stepbacks read as “facadomy” or Disney-like and asked for a more cohesive design. Chair Helen Aikman noted that the applicant’s design choice should be respected if it meets the guidelines. The applicant said the upper stepbacks are limited to stucco or siding because of the wood-frame structure and said he would work through the water-line, setback, and screening issues. The BAR deferred the case to the July 15, 2026 combined work session/business meeting 6–0–1, with Rick Brown recused, and requested updated plans/renderings, a roof plan, and view-from/-of Dodona Manor analysis. Staff Announcements - Staff recognized Historic Preservation Month and noted Preservation Day attendance more than doubled from the prior year. - Staff highlighted training opportunities through the Campaign for Historic Trades and the Department of Historic Resources, as well as upcoming Leesburg 250 programming. Key Outcomes - Consent item TLHPBR2026-0011 approved 7–0. - TLHPBR2026-0010 deferred to the June 17, 2026 business meeting 7–0. - TLHPBR2025-0083 removed and re-advertised for June. - TLHPBR2026-0012 deferred to the June 16, 2026 business meeting with no opposition; Brown recused. - TLHPBR2026-0014 deferred to the July 15, 2026 combined work session/business meeting 6–0–1; Brown recused. - The meeting adjourned by unanimous motion.