Public Meetings - Leesburg, Virginia

The Leesburg Technology Commission met on April 7, 2026, at 12:00 PM. The meeting was called to order with a quorum established, the Pledge of Allegiance recited, and the minutes of the March 3, 2026 meeting approved unanimously. The commission received updates on a public outreach scam defense class, funded FY2026 information technology initiatives, and upcoming events. No public comments were heard. Discussion Items - Public Outreach – Scam Defense Class: Commissioner John (lead) provided an update on curriculum development for a scam defense class (working title: "Terminator"). The modular class will cover phishing, tech support scams, mobile payment scams, romance scams, gift card scams, wire transfer scams, package scams, prize/grant scams, easy pass scams, subscription order scams, and tech support scams. Modules are prioritized using the FBI 2025 Cybercrime Report and can be tailored by audience age group. The class will include an introduction explaining the Technology Commission, learning objectives, and the threat landscape. Interactive examples are planned for each module; commissioners agreed to provide personal examples via email (no shared platforms allowed due to FOIA restrictions). Scheduling and logistics will be coordinated with Amanda (absent due to illness). - New Business – Funded Information Technology Initiatives for FY2026: The IT Director reported on current projects: (1) Switch replacement and SD-WAN upgrade – core switches at Town Hall and Police Department completed (one card failed and will be RMA'd, coordinated with HVAC testing at PD); remaining switch closets will be upgraded after hours starting end of May/June. (2) Enterprise management tools – Endpoint Central (manage engine) implemented for endpoint management (patches, vulnerabilities, automation); Service Desk Plus will replace the current help desk system later this month, integrating with inventory and enabling automated onboarding workflows. The goal is building a foundational IT infrastructure (rebar and concrete) with zero trust architecture. Staff training is emphasized, and the department aims to minimize reliance on third-party vendors. No budget enhancements for most departments this year. Commissioner Comments - Networking Event: Commissioner John announced the annual commission networking event on April 30, 2026, at 6:00 PM (presentations start at 6:30 PM) at Idley Lower Level. Commissioners are urged to RSVP. Attendees should prepare three accomplishments from the past year and three suggestions for inter-commission synergy using a provided template. - Free Conferences: John noted a free AI governance conference featuring a keynote by the former commander of Cybercom and director of the NSA. Commissioners should check their town email for registration. - Security Reports: John highlighted the MS-ISAC (or MISEC) reports, noting a recent report on Iranian state actors targeting PLCs (programmable logic controllers). Information is shared with the Utilities Department and other sister localities (several lack IT departments). The town offers assistance to local towns. - Councilman's Remarks: Councilman (recovering from back surgery) welcomed an upcoming November election with three seats up for re-election (Councilman, Dr. Semino Johnson, Mr. Wilt, and the mayor). He encouraged commissioners to identify potential candidates among Leesburg residents to ensure continuity. Key Outcomes - Minutes Approved: The minutes of the March 3, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously by voice vote. - No Other Votes: All other items were informational; no additional motions or votes were taken. - Action Items: Commissioners will email personal examples for scam class modules to John by Tuesday; John will distribute the networking event template and re-send RSVP details; IT Department will continue implementation of endpoint central and service desk transition, with ongoing updates to the commission.

The Leesburg Residential Traffic Commission met on April 7, 2026, to discuss traffic safety issues including the Old Waterford crossing, speeding on Hope Parkway, a bike bus program, a joint project with the Diversity Committee, budget allocations for rectangular rapid flashing beacons (RRFBs), and a proposed parking lane on Trailview Boulevard. Consent Calendar - The agenda was approved as amended with a motion, second, and unanimous vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Beth Huncharski (Stratford Club board member) expressed continued concerns about speeding on Hope Parkway, particularly between Miller and Sicklin roads, and at crosswalks near Shirley Square. She requested selective enforcement during 4–6 p.m. and a sign reminding drivers to yield to pedestrians. She thanked the commission for the digital speed sign but noted it is often ignored. - A resident (East Stratford area, 23-year homeowner) described dangerous speeding on Hope Parkway, especially during weekday rush hours, with cars using the road as a cut-through from the Greenway. She proposed reducing the road from four lanes to two between Striker and Sicklin, or installing a four-way stop at Hope Parkway and Whip Drive near the pool. She reported near-misses with children crossing. - A resident (Old Waterford area) displayed photos and advocated for more visible signage (e.g., speed, bikers, stop signs) on Morgan Park Road, contrasting existing signs with more effective examples from other neighborhoods. The commission acknowledged the suggestions. Discussion Items - Old Waterford Crossing Update: A commissioner reported that work is complete and the 90-day evaluation clock started April 1. Speed and volume data will be collected; police may conduct selective enforcement after 45 days. The double yellow line request was not implemented. - Bike Bus Presentation: Cassie Cunnington (PTA president, Leesburg Elementary) presented a bike bus program launching April 15. The 2-mile route uses right-hand turns and parent volunteers. The commission offered additional flashing beacon lights to improve visibility. - Diversity Committee Joint Meeting: Three commissioners attended a meeting with the Diversity Committee regarding a potential joint project. They reported the committee pushed for flag crossing installations and driver education, but commissioners found the meeting unproductive, lacking quantitative data and alignment with the Diversity Committee’s mission. The commission will consider constructive proposals at a future meeting. - Trailview Boulevard Parking Lane: Discussion on a request to allow overnight parking in a travel lane. The commission concluded they lack data, criteria, and jurisdiction (road not yet town-maintained). They recommended developing criteria before further consideration and noted potential safety and enforcement issues. - Speed Data and Enforcement Updates: Police provided speed data for several locations: South King (85th percentile 23.7 mph, average 18.6), Dry Mill (85th percentile 28.6 mph, significant reduction after pavement markings), and others. Selective enforcement on North King at Bridget resulted in 29 contacts over 28.5 hours since January. Speed cameras in school zones are mailing tickets; after-hours behavior still being evaluated. - RRFB Budget and Locations: Staff presented budget of $33,373.41 and cost estimates for RRFBs. The commission voted to maximize the budget to install one three-pole and two two-pole RRFBs (covering three locations: North Street/North King, 741 Miller Drive, and a third to be chosen) and to collect data at two Battlefield Parkway intersections (Woods Edge Drive and Chadfield Way). - One-Way Street Denial: The town council denied the proposal for one-way streets on Liberty and Word Street. Commissioners expressed disappointment, noting prior reductions in scope. Key Outcomes - Approved: Motion to maximize budget for RRFBs, covering three installations and two data collection studies, passed unanimously. - Directive: Police will conduct selective enforcement on Hope Parkway (focusing on crosswalks during 4–6 p.m.) and on Potomac Station Drive at Sycamore Hill Drive. - Future Agenda: Speeding on South King Street (hotel area) added for May; bike bus will receive additional flashing lights; a future meeting will discuss criteria for overnight parking lanes. - No Action: The Trailview Boulevard parking lane request was tabled pending more data and criteria. The one-way street proposal remains denied. - Next Steps: Staff will develop criteria for parking lane assessments and share Loudoun County’s manual on speed bumps for future discussion.

The Leesburg Economic Development Commission (EDC) held its monthly meeting on April 1, 2026, at the Council Chambers. The meeting featured a presentation from St. John Properties on a proposed flex industrial development, followed by discussion on the need for flex space, the zoning rewrite, and upcoming events. Consent Calendar - Motion to allow remote participation: Approved for Commissioner Tony Tallant. - Adoption of agenda: Moved and seconded; approved unanimously. - Approval of March 4, 2026 regular meeting minutes: Moved, seconded, approved. - Approval of March 19, 2026 work session minutes: Moved, seconded, approved. Public Comments & Testimony - No petitioners were present. Discussion Items - Guest Speaker – St. John Properties: Matthew Holbrook (Regional Partner) and Peyton Stone presented a proposal for a flex industrial development on a vacant site near the intersection of Battlefield Parkway and Route 7 (East Market Street). The site is under contract, currently comp-planned for innovation center use but not zoned for flex industrial. The presentation highlighted: - St. John Properties is the largest flex industrial developer in the mid-Atlantic, with 25 million sq. ft. nationwide, including 1.5 million sq. ft. in Loudoun County and 160,000 sq. ft. in Leesburg (Leesburg Tech Park). - The proposed development would feature brick-and-glass buildings, low height (16-ft clear), and tenant mix of small businesses, government contractors, and community services (e.g., daycare, coffee shops). - Vacancy at Leesburg Tech Park is effectively zero; the company receives about two calls per week for space that does not exist. The need for flex space in Leesburg is critical—the town's flex space vacancy rate is 0.1%. - Challenges include: outdated zoning, a long-planned but unbuilt “Cardinal Park Overpass” (flyover) that would consume developable land, and the need for community engagement to overcome the negative perception of “industrial.” - The project is in early stages; rezoning application expected in the next few months, with a hopeful 18-month timeline for zoning approval and one year for site plan. Construction could start immediately upon permits, with first buildings delivered in about 18 months. - The company emphasized that they build speculatively and own properties long-term, and they requested flexibility in the zoning rewrite to allow easy tenant changes without cumbersome processes. - Commission Discussion: Members expressed strong support for the project, noting that flex space is essential for retaining and attracting small businesses, generating tax revenue, and reducing the fiscal gap between residential and commercial development. EDC staff (Russell Seymour) noted that the town is losing businesses due to lack of space, and that the project aligns with the Legacy Leesburg comprehensive plan and the strategic economic development plan. - Staff Report – Russell Seymour: - Reminded commissioners of the importance of the zoning rewrite. James David (Director of Community Development) will present at the next meeting. - Announced that AARP recognized Leesburg as “the perfect American city for a romantic getaway.” - A digital kiosk has been approved for Mervyn Park (near the piano); it will serve as an information center for downtown businesses. - The Leesburg Business Awards will be held May 6 at Shutters (second floor). Voting is complete; ties were broken by new member Tara. - The annual Board and Commission updates will take place April 30 at Ida Lee. - Commissioner Comments: - Tony Tallant (via remote) praised the presentation and noted the vitality of Leesburg Executive Airport, suggesting it as a community asset. - Bob emphasized the need for flex space to keep jobs local and noted that businesses in the Crescent District are being priced out. - Kathy highlighted the importance of educating the community about what “flex industrial” really means. - Tara (new member) introduced herself as Director of Sales for the Home2 Suites and expressed support for the project. - The Chair (Kevin) committed to focusing on the zoning rewrite and preparing questions for James David. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken on the St. John Properties proposal. The EDC will consider making a recommendation to Town Council and Planning Commission once the project moves forward. - The EDC will continue to study the zoning rewrite and provide input to James David. Commissioners were asked to submit questions ahead of the next meeting. - The Leesburg Business Awards are set for May 6, 2026; EDC members will assist with setup and staffing. - The next EDC meeting (work session) will be held jointly with the Board and Commission updates on April 30, 2026.

The Leesburg Performing Arts Commission met on March 26, 2026, at 1:00 PM. The meeting covered budget updates, a proposed capstone recital program, a performing arts directory, and long-range planning. Key decisions included approving a June recital event and starting a call to artists. Discussion Items - Budget Update: Chair reported that the FY2026 budget request of $13,000 was fulfilled by Town Council. Council expressed concerns about the commission becoming a producing organization and advised against direct scholarship awards, suggesting a nonprofit intermediary. - Parks and Recreation Survey Data: Kate from Parks and Rec presented survey results showing performing arts theater as the top unmet facility need and cultural enrichment programs as second priority. The data is part of the 20-year master plan process. - Capstone Recital Proposal: Marjorie proposed a capstone recital for high school seniors pursuing arts degrees, replacing the previously planned talent show. The event would be a call to artists paying performers directly for services, avoiding scholarship issues. Motion to hold a June recital at Ida Lee Park all-purpose room passed 6-0-0-1 (one absent). A subsequent motion to authorize creation of the call to artists also passed. - Performing Arts Directory: Peter volunteered to chair a committee to create a directory of performing arts organizations, venues, and vendors. The Loudoun Arts Council's existing directory may provide a starting point. - Old Isaac Walton Park Feasibility: After a site visit, members concluded the space is unsuitable due to gymnastics use, structural issues, limited parking, and concrete floors. The item was removed from the agenda. - COPA Grant Partnership: The commission voted to reach out to the chair of the Council of Performing Arts (COPA) to discuss a joint adjudication of the Virginia Commission for the Arts grants, which are currently split between visual and performing arts. Motion passed 6-0-0-1. - Long-Range Strategic Plan: Peter proposed developing a strategic plan. The commission agreed to schedule a retreat in July, with members to submit available dates at the April meeting. - August Court Days Revival: The chair researched the historical event (1977-2005) and suggested partnering with the town's 250th anniversary committee. The chair will contact Laura Christensen, director of Bulch Library, and bring a proposal to the next meeting. Key Outcomes - Approved the March agenda and February minutes as amended. - Voted to hold a capstone recital in June 2026 at Ida Lee Park, with a $3,000 allocation for performer payments and $800 for technical support. - Authorized the creation and dissemination of a call to artists for the recital. - Established a committee (Peter as chair) to develop a performing arts directory. - Removed the Old Isaac Walton Park feasibility study from future agendas. - Authorized the chair to explore partnership with COPA for grant adjudication. - Planned a July retreat to focus on a long-range strategic plan. - Next regular meeting: April 23, 2026. Note: The transcript had occasional unclear vote tallies; all recorded votes were 6 in favor, 0 opposed, 0 abstentions, with one member absent.

The Leesburg Town Council met Tuesday evening, March 24, 2026, beginning at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber at Town Hall (25 West Market Street). The central item was the close of the FY 2027 budget cycle: council heard public testimony on employee compensation, held a public hearing on the 2026 tax rate and fees, adopted the FY 2027 budget and the FY 2027-2032 Capital Improvements Program, and approved consent items and two agreements. After amending the budget to restore a 2% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), add a one-time $1,000 bonus for employees earning under $100,000, add funds for collective bargaining, and defer a police lieutenant hire, council kept the real property tax rate flat at 17.74 cents per $100 of assessed value. Note: meeting minutes were not available; the transcript is a rough transcription with inconsistent name spellings, and discrepancies are flagged below. Consent Calendar - Minutes: Approved the Work Session minutes of March 9, 2026, 6-0-1 (Council Member Steinberg absent) and the Regular Session minutes of March 10, 2026, 5-0-2 (Steinberg and Council Member Wilt absent). - Agenda: Adopted 7-0 with no amendments or deletions. - Proclamation - Keep Leesburg Beautiful Month (April 2026): Adopted 7-0. (The transcribed proclamation text says "April 26th," while the agenda title says "April 2026.") Deanna Burke of the Leesburg Environmental Advisory Commission accepted, reporting 12 participating businesses offering volunteer discounts/coupons, two "golden grabbers" awards for the top trash-collecting groups (under 10 and over 10 people), a kickoff event April 11, and last year's volunteers collecting literal tons of trash. - Consent Agenda: Approved 7-0: (a) South King Street & Route 7/15 Bypass Interchange Access Report (IAR) design contract authorization; (b) Northern Virginia Electric Cooperative (NOVEC) easement and right-of-way agreement, Miller Drive SE to 2070 Hangar Row Lane SE; (c) avigation easement from Village at Clear Springs pursuant to county proffers; (d) right-of-way encroachment agreement at 109 South King Street; (e) Water Pollution Control Facility replacement of process blower building feeder cables; and (f) appointment of Tara Orndorff to the Economic Development Commission. Public Comments & Testimony Four residents spoke during the Petitioners period. No members of the public signed up to speak at the formal public hearing on the 2026 tax rate and fees. - Justin Schumer (introduced by the Mayor as "Schooner"; the transcript shows both spellings), a Town of Leesburg employee speaking for himself and his family: Said he began his career with $100,000 in college debt at a $39,000 annual salary, earned a master's degree with his wife while raising three small children, and has fostered more than a dozen children. He now earns a six-figure salary but said he and a majority of his colleagues still cannot afford to live in Loudoun County. He stated the $2,000 raise is intended to be more equitable for lower-paid staff and he respects that goal, but for him it is less than a cost-of-living increase, and the decision will affect the workforce for 10-15 years. He asked council to remember that employees "are more than numbers on a spreadsheet." - Brendan Murphy (493 Marshall Drive NE, Leesburg): Supported the goal of helping lower-salaried staff but opposed the flat-rate plan, arguing it creates $71,000 in savings by reducing cost-of-living protection for the most experienced professionals (engineers, department heads, senior technicians), effectively asking veteran staff to personally fund their colleagues' relief. He warned of salary compression and morale erosion, and said replacing one key professional would cost far more than the $71,000 saved today. He proposed a "COLA Plus" model-a 2% base raise for everyone plus a one-time bridge bonus so no employee receives less than $2,000-an $85,000 investment over the current plan-and suggested modernizing outdated permits, fees, and tax categories instead. - Samantha Russell (20-year homeowner; LCPS employee): Urged council to restore $200,000 for the town bike path study. She argued the town is rewriting its zoning ordinance (public hearing April 16), residential traffic manual, construction standards, and floodplain guidance, making this the most efficient time to weave multimodal safety into those documents. She cited the Leesburg Elementary bike bus, which required a police escort for children to ride to school safely, called the Leesburg Bypass a significant physical barrier, and framed the study as a "proffer menu"-a legally defensible list of infrastructure needs for developer negotiations-and a prerequisite for the federal Safe Streets and Roads for All program. - Maureen Newton (resident since 1996): Asked council to be "fiscally responsible with my money. I am not the bank of Leesburg." She cited a newspaper report that the town was considering a 20% increase in town taxes and said "the residents of Leesburg will not accept this," citing rising costs for food, gas, and other necessities. (Council Member Kirkowski later said the 20% figure "was never gonna happen.") Discussion Items Public Hearing - 2026 Tax Rate and Fees. Chris Hutland, management and budget analyst, presented the proposed rate of 17.74 cents per $100 of assessed value-no change from the current year. Each penny of the rate generates approximately $1.45 million; reducing the rate to the homeowner's equalized rate of 17.26 cents would require about $700,000 in expenditure reductions. The taxable portfolio is 68% residential ($9.9 billion) and 32% commercial ($4.7 billion). Existing residential assessments rose approximately 3%, non-residential assessments rose 15%, and new construction added 2.2%, for a total taxable portfolio increase of 8.6%. Housing stock is 50% single-family detached, 34% townhomes, and 16% condos; the average residential tax bill is $1,155, an increase of $33.44 per year (the transcript also states "$2.79 per year per month," presumably meaning $2.79 per month), ranging from $14.52 for the average condo to $44.99 for the average single-family detached home. Staff noted 72.6 cents of each tax dollar funds police, public works, capital projects, parks/recreation, and library services. Town Manager Dentler clarified the legally advertised rate was two cents higher to preserve council flexibility and that straw votes from the prior markup session had pointed to 17.69. Budget Amendments. Council Member Nacy proposed, and straw votes confirmed support for: reinstating the 2% COLA for all employees; adding a one-time $1,000 lump-sum bonus (paid July 1) for employees earning under $100,000, with a work session next budget cycle to craft a different long-term approach; deferring the new police lieutenant start date to November 1, 2026 (saving about $52,200); adding $100,000 for the anticipated collective bargaining agreement (bringing total collective bargaining funding to $300,000); and reducing the labor relations attorney line by $56,000 ($50,000 from outside counsel plus $6,000 for equipment) as the town moves to a staff position. Staff said roughly 54% of the town's 400 full-time employees earn under $100,000, making the bonus cost about $200,000 plus approximately $20,000 in FICA, to be paid from unassigned fund balance and utility reserves. Restoring the COLA alone moved the rate to 17.75; the full package kept it at 17.74. Zero-Based Budgeting Commitment (Defeated). Vice Mayor Cimino-Johnson said he could not support the rate without a commitment to phase in zero-based budgeting-25% of departments reviewed each year-to identify efficiency before asking residents to pay more. He cited a $2.2 million structural budget gap, $8.4 million in unfunded requests, $2.66 million in capital needs, about $12 million to catch up on paving, another $3-6 million in stormwater needs, and said the town paid $5.9 million for the Rock Creek Farm property, which he argued was not worth that amount. (The transcript garbles his conditional statement-"...I will support this rate without that commitment..."-though context and his final "nay" indicate he would support the rate only with the commitment.) The Mayor noted a finance summit is planned after the budget, but the Vice Mayor requested an immediate vote; only three members (Cimino-Johnson, Wilt, Cummings) supported the proposal, so it failed for lack of four votes. Fiscal Policy Amendment (Deferred). The resolution to amend the Town's Fiscal Policy was called with no presentation. Staff described the changes as largely editorial-consolidating ad hoc amendments previously made through budget ordinances, updating references from the director of financial and administrative services to the CFO, and updating Government Finance Officers Association award references. Council Member Nacy moved to table the item to a future work session with a brief presentation; council agreed 7-0. Leesburg Movement Memorandum of Agreement. Staff presented two amendments to the agreement with the Leesburg Movement, the town's 501(c)(3) organization and part of the state's Main Street program: (1) specifying the town's advertising obligations-promoting Leesburg Movement events through the economic development website, town social media, and other communication channels, subject to the town communication policy and workload; and (2) changing the correspondence address from Town Hall (25 West Market Street) to the organization's physical office at 15 North King Street, second floor-space in the town's economic development department provided at no rent under the agreement. Council Member Nacy asked whether the town was taking on government activities for an organization that must remain independent for Main Street program eligibility; staff responded that such promotion is routine for the downtown business community and independence will be maintained. Council and Staff Comments. Council Member Cummings thanked Council Member Nacy and staff for making his compensation-fairness proposal workable. Council Member Kirkowski said the COLA was never truly threatened, confirmed the flat tax rate, and reported on a disc golf demonstration at the former West Park Golf Club. Vice Mayor Cimino-Johnson requested a future work session on the bike path study, which council agreed to. Council Member Steinberg flagged that council has not agreed on a stormwater funding approach. Mayor Burke summarized recent community engagements (a meet-the-mayor event at IHOP, the National League of Cities lobbying day in DC, airport story time, Little League opening day, and a preschool "if I were mayor" book project whose authors requested more parks-and free pizza and ice cream) and said the budget reflects priorities of customer service, quality of life, fair wages, and preserving Leesburg's historic character. Town Manager Dentler said the town is in excellent financial shape with challenges ahead, called this his last budget, and reminded council of the joint meeting with the Planning Commission on the zoning ordinance rewrite on April 2 at 7:00 p.m. Key Outcomes - 2026 tax rate and fees ordinance adopted 6-1 (Vice Mayor Cimino-Johnson opposed). Motion by Council Member Steinberg, second by Council Member Kirkowski; keeps the real property tax rate at 17.74 cents per $100 of assessed value and amends the Appendix B fee schedule, as amended by the budget package. - FY 2027-2032 Capital Improvements Program adopted 6-1 (Cimino-Johnson opposed). - FY 2027 Budget adopted 5-2 (Wilt and Cimino-Johnson opposed). Includes the restored 2% COLA, the one-time $1,000 bonus for employees earning under $100,000, $300,000 total for collective bargaining, the staff labor relations attorney position, and the November 1 police lieutenant start date-all without a tax rate increase. Staff (Mr. Sparr) said an amended budget resolution reflecting the night's changes will be prepared for the record. - Fiscal Policy amendment deferred 7-0 to a future work session with a presentation. - Leesburg Movement MOA amendment adopted 7-0. - Zero-based budgeting commitment rejected (3 of 7 votes-Cimino-Johnson, Wilt, Cummings). - Next steps: Council agreed to schedule work session discussions on the $200,000 bike path study and the stormwater funding approach; the joint Planning Commission meeting on the zoning ordinance rewrite is set for April 2 at 7:00 p.m.

On March 23, 2026, the Leesburg Town Council held a work session to finalize the Fiscal Year 2027 Proposed Budget. The session focused on resolving remaining expenditure items, setting the real estate tax rate, and preparing for adoption the following evening. Key discussions included paving program funding, police collective bargaining, employee compensation, and several board and commission requests. Discussion Items - Paving Program Funding: Council Member Kurkowski proposed using $1.45 million from prior-year data center computer equipment tax revenue (instead of $1 million from data center and $450,000 from local tax) to fund the milling and paving program. The straw poll passed 6-1 (Vice Mayor, Nasi, Cummings, Steinberg, Mayor, Kurkowski in favor; Wilt opposed). - Public Employee Homeownership Grant Program (PEG): Council approved $100,000 as a pilot program, funded from unassigned fund balance. The grant would provide up to $25,000 per employee for home purchases within town limits, modeled after Loudoun County's program. The straw poll passed 6-1 (Kurkowski, Nasi, Burke, Steinberg, Mayor, Vice Mayor in favor; Wilt opposed). - Police Collective Bargaining Implementation: Council added $200,000 in recurring local tax funding to cover the one-time cost of converting police sworn positions from a merit to a step-based salary system. The straw poll passed 5-2 (all except Wilt and Nasi). - Assistant Town Attorney for Labor Relations: Council approved hiring a part-time assistant town attorney (six months delayed) at a cost of $96,000 (recurring). The straw poll passed 6-1 (all except Wilt). - Digital Kiosk Downtown: Council added $43,000 (local match after $15,000 grant) for a digital kiosk, with $16,000 in optional annual costs for an extended warranty (not required). The straw poll passed 4-2 (Kurkowski, Nasi, Mayor, Steinberg in favor; others opposed). - Performing Arts Commission Requests: Council approved $1,500 for a portable PA system (data center funding) and $5,000 for equipment rental for events (one-time data center funding). Both passed 4-3 (Vice Mayor, Cummings, Kurkowski, Nasi in favor). - Residential Traffic Management Plan Rewrite: Council approved $75,000 (reduced from $175,000) from unassigned fund balance to update the 25-year-old manual, leveraging Loudoun County's concurrent update. The straw poll passed 6-1 (all except Wilt). - General Fund Enhancements: Council removed the downtown floodplain improvement study ($450,000) and the development fee study ($150,000) from the budget. All other enhancements (e.g., subdivision regulations update, Lasseter Way improvements, Tavistock Dam study, Virginia 250th celebration) were retained. - Employee Compensation: Council opted for a flat $2,000 increase to base salary (instead of a 2% COLA) for all employees, estimated to save $71,000 compared to the COLA. The straw poll passed 4-3 (Nasi, Vice Mayor, Cummings, Wilt in favor; Kurkowski, Mayor, Steinberg opposed). - Cost of Living Adjustment for Boards and Commissions: Council approved a 2% COLA for the Town Council, Planning Commission, and Board of Architectural Review, funded at the same level as the proposed budget. The straw poll passed 5-2 (Vice Mayor, Steinberg, Mayor, Nasi, Kurkowski in favor; Cummings, Wilt opposed). Key Outcomes - Tax Rate: Following all actions, the real estate tax rate was set at 17.69 cents per $100 of assessed value, a decrease from the previous 17.85 cents. - Budget Adoption: The final budget, CIP, and fiscal policy will be presented for adoption at the March 24, 2026 Town Council meeting, along with a public hearing and adoption of tax year 2026 real estate tax rates. - Proclamations: Council approved proclamations for National Public Works Week (May 17–23) and recognizing Brian Boucher as a 250 Public Service Champion (April 28). - Closed Session: Council convened a closed session under Virginia Code § 2.2-3711(A)(1) for personnel discussion related to collective bargaining. The session was certified and adjourned. Next Steps - Staff will prepare the final budget documents reflecting all straw poll decisions. - The PEG program policy will be developed and brought back to council for formal approval. - The digital kiosk and wayfinding signage will be discussed in a future work session. - The residential traffic management manual rewrite will proceed with a reduced scope, leveraging county work.

The Leesburg Parks and Recreation Commission held its regular meeting on March 19, 2026. Key discussions included a proposed trail connection near Sicklin Market, the planned disc golf course at West Park, and a visioning presentation for the department's 20-year master plan. The commission also addressed operational items such as Easter egg hunt pricing and the pending acquisition of Rock Spring Farm. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes from the previous meeting by voice vote with all in favor. Discussion Items - Rock Spring Farm Contract: Members discussed the pending purchase of the 14-acre property, which includes a manor house and conservation easement. The council still needs to appropriate funds; a public hearing is set for April 14, 2026. The property cannot be developed regardless of the purchase. - Easter Egg Hunt Fee: A member questioned the $10 per child fee for the event, noting it has been in place for several years. Staff explained the fee covers staffing, goody bags, and activities. Pre-registration this year (75-80) is higher than last year. The event time shifted to afternoon. - Bike Trail Connection Proposal: Commissioner Ross proposed exploring a pedestrian bridge over a creek near Sicklin Market to create a connection to the W&OD trail, using an abandoned road right-of-way. The commission discussed ownership of the old roadbed and potential alternatives using the existing bridge. Staff agreed to research property ownership and consider a site visit. - West Park Disc Golf Course: Extensive discussion centered on community opposition to the planned disc golf course at the former West Park golf course. Opponents cited concerns about parking lot placement near homes, safety of discs, and increased traffic. Supporters argued the course would be a low-cost, low-impact amenity and that parking lots are required regardless. The commission considered drafting a formal letter of support but ultimately decided not to take a collective position. Several members plan to speak as individuals at upcoming county meetings. A disc golf demonstration is scheduled for March 24, 2026. - Visioning Session for Master Plan: Laquita Fraser presented community survey results, including 9,000 website contacts, 305 statistically valid survey responses (95% confidence), and feedback from pop-ups and stakeholder meetings. Top investment priorities identified were trails, shade trees, a recreation center, and a performing arts facility. Key needs included trail connectivity, teen and adult spaces, and South Leesburg access. The commission discussed the importance of connectivity, the potential for a community center versus a recreation center, and the need for land acquisition. Two public visioning sessions are scheduled for March 20, 2026. - Other Updates: The town's tennis center was voted best in Northern Virginia by Virginia Magazine. The pickleball groundbreaking is set for April 8, 2026. Curb painting for fire lanes and handicapped spaces at Tuscarora Creek and Robinson Parks was requested. The town will participate in Play All Day VA. Key Outcomes - Approved previous meeting minutes. - Directed staff to research ownership and feasibility of the Sicklin trail connection. - No formal action taken on the West Park disc golf course; individual members may testify. - Received visioning presentation; commission feedback will inform the draft master plan and strategic plan. - Acknowledged pending Rock Spring Farm public hearing and council vote.

The Leesburg Planning Commission held a regular meeting on March 19, 2026, addressing three public hearing items related to floodplain regulations, design standards, and land development glossary amendments. The meeting also included a work session on the ongoing Zoning Ordinance Rewrite. Key discussions centered on expanding fill-by-right provisions beyond the downtown area and incorporating public feedback. Consent Calendar - The agenda was adopted as submitted. - The minutes of the March 5, 2026 meeting were approved with no corrections or alterations. Public Comments & Testimony - Amy and Dean Sibley (823 Melody Court) expressed cautious optimism and appreciation for the commission's consideration of zoning ordinance Section 1045 amendments regarding rear yard setbacks for covered decks. They have been waiting over a year to build a screened-in section on their deck and hope the revision (allowing a roofed deck to extend 20 feet to the rear property line for perimeter lots) will be approved. - Sunny Rahija (representing himself and his father, owners of 39 Sicklin Road SE) spoke in support of the floodplain amendments (TLZNOA2025-0001). He requested that the by-right fill provisions proposed for the downtown Worth-to-Harrison corridor be extended to include Sicklin Road and Principal Drummond Way, where they plan to build a three-story office building (Leesburg Office Suites). He noted that predictability in floodplain management would allow them to focus on building quality. Discussion Items - Floodplain Overlay District Amendments (TLZNOA2025-0001): Staff (Brian Boucher) presented amendments to Zoning Ordinance Section 7.1, initiated by Town Council resolution in October 2025 to spur economic development along South Street. Proposed changes include allowing mixed-use development, parking lots/structures, and fill as permitted uses in the floodplain overlay district between Wirt Street and Harrison Street. Staff noted that the floodplain in this area is backwater/ineffective flow, previously disturbed, and that the changes still require FEMA and DCR approval. Public input received at a prior meeting suggested expanding fill-by-right to all of Town Branch and Tuscarora Creek and clarifying definitions. Chief Engineer Bill Ackman detailed recommended revisions (e.g., clarifying fill to include retaining walls, abutments; updating terminology; removing certain acknowledgment requirements from DCSM and adding them as approval conditions). - Design and Construction Standards Manual (TLENOA2026-0001) and Subdivision and Land Development Regulations (TLENOA2026-0002): Staff explained that the DCSM amendments align town floodplain regulations with the DCR model ordinance and FEMA guidance, with minor wordsmithing and updates to staff titles. SLDR amendments update the glossary for consistency. The public input led to clarifications such as defining residential uses per FEMA, adding pedestrian ingress/egress requirements, and requiring DCSM modifications prior to site plan submission. - Commission Questions and Concerns: Commissioner Barnes raised traffic and parking impacts; staff noted traffic studies would be required and that parking supply would be addressed. Commissioner Dutchkates asked about the rationale for limiting the original scope to north of Town Branch between Wirt and Harrison; staff cited the council resolution and the presence of backwater floodplain. Commissioner Ken questioned the environmental impact of fill and zero-rise requirements; staff explained that mitigation (e.g., stream restoration) is required and that FEMA approval ensures no increase in flood elevation. Commissioner Robinson asked about the number of parcels affected by expanding fill to Tuscarora Creek (estimated 10-20) and requested historical information on previous floodplain alterations. - Zoning Ordinance Rewrite Work Session: Staff (James David) reported on the twentieth work session. Responses to public comments on attainable housing and food deserts were provided. Staff concluded that adding commercial neighborhood districts in northern areas was not feasible based on past market experience (e.g., Potomac Crossing, Kincaid Forest). Commissioner Robinson requested that state code references be added to purpose sections for clarity; staff agreed. The next steps include a joint meeting with Town Council on April 2, a public hearing on April 16, and anticipated legislative applications (Liberty Hotel, Crescent District Streetscape study, Raising Canes drive-thru). Key Outcomes - Motion to Continue Public Hearing into Work Session: Commissioner Campbell moved that the three amendments (TLZNOA2025-0001, TLENOA2026-0001, TLENOA2026-0002) be placed on a work session in April 2026, with direction to integrate changes responding to public comment and evaluate expanding proposed regulatory amendments to the entirety of Town Branch and Tuscarora Creek. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously on a voice vote. - Work Session Direction: Staff will prepare drawings showing backwater impact areas and bring back a consolidated document with all recommended changes. The commission will decide whether to expand scope within this amendment or address it in the broader Zoning Ordinance Rewrite.

On Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at 7:00 PM, the Leesburg Board of Architectural Review (BAR) held a business meeting in Council Chambers. The meeting covered two new certificate of appropriateness applications, a historic plaque presentation, a pre‑application conference for a proposed development, and routine business. Consent Calendar - No items were placed on the consent agenda. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke on non‑agenda items. The public hearings for the two new cases had no speakers from the public. Discussion Items - Approval of Minutes (February 2 & 18, 2026): The minutes of the February 2 work session were approved 5‑0 with two abstentions (members who were absent). The minutes of the February 18 business meeting were approved 5‑0 with two abstentions. One typographical correction was noted. - TLHPBR2026‑0005 – 230 South Street SE, Exterior Rehabilitation (H‑1 District): Staff presented an updated proposal from applicant Lisa Allen. The project involves exterior repairs, a minor rear addition, a wood deck, and alterations to an accessory structure (including a board‑and‑batten finish, not T‑111). The applicant agreed to simplify the front porch by removing ornamental columns and balustrades, replacing them with plain square posts (4×4 or 6×6 if consistent with neighboring properties). The applicant will use wood six‑over‑six double‑hung windows on the historic primary structure and white aluminum‑clad windows on the addition and accessory structure. The board discussed the size of porch columns and decided to match those approved for a nearby property (Mike Weber’s structure on the same street). A finding was added that the existing columns are not original and have been altered. - TLHPBR2026‑0003 – 8 Wirt Street NW, Screened Porch (H‑1 District): Applicant Kevin Rudicelli (architect) presented a 144‑square‑foot screened porch addition to the side of a circa‑1878 house. Staff recommended adding one additional chamfered post to the west elevation, which the applicant incorporated. The porch is located in front of a 1950s non‑contributing addition; the board confirmed it is a side addition, not a front addition. The board found the design, materials (standing seam metal roof, wood trim, stone steps), and scale appropriate. - Historic Plaque Presentation: A historic structure plaque for 208 South King Street was presented on behalf of the Loudoun Preservation Society. The plaque program is administered by the Society in partnership with the town. The plaque was accepted by the board. - Pre‑Application Conference – 206 East Market Street (New Development): Kevin Ash presented an early concept for a mixed‑use building at the former piano store site. The proposal includes ground‑floor parking/retail, a second‑floor inn, and upper floors with office and residential space. The building is four stories on a sloping site. Staff and board raised concerns about massing, design style (noting a proliferation of similar brick/classical styles), and impact on the viewshed of Dodona Manor (a National Historic Landmark). The board suggested reducing the number of segmented building forms, simplifying the western end, and exploring more contemporary materials. No vote was taken; the presentation was for preliminary feedback only. - Cancellation of April 8 Work Session: The board voted 7‑0 to cancel the April 8 work session due to scheduling conflicts with ongoing work in Council Chambers. Key Outcomes - TLHPBR2026‑0005 (230 South Street SE) – Approved 7‑0 with conditions (e.g., wood windows on historic block, aluminum‑clad windows on addition, wood 4×4 or 6×6 columns, blue color palette, board‑and‑batten siding, material submittals to staff). - TLHPBR2026‑0003 (8 Wirt Street NW) – Approved 7‑0 with conditions (e.g., additional chamfered post, any hardscaping requires separate COA). - Historic Plaque – Accepted. - 206 East Market Street – Pre‑application discussed; no formal decision. - April 8 Work Session – Cancelled by unanimous vote. - Staff Announcements: BAR will participate in the Flower & Garden Show (April 18‑19, 2026) with a booth; volunteers sought. Meeting adjourned at 8:40 PM.