Public Meetings - Leesburg, Virginia

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.

The Leesburg Executive Airport Commission met at 6 p.m. on the meeting date supplied for this record. Note: the transcript opens with "Wednesday, March 11th, 2026, 6 p.m.," while the provided meeting date is March 16, 2026; the latter is used in this summary. The commission welcomed new Commissioner Michael May, who was appointed by Town Council the previous night to replace John Dolan, and conducted routine approvals before discussing strategic planning, art, taxiway design, an observation park, internships, tower funding, and regulation updates. Consent Calendar - Agenda adopted by voice vote with no opposition. - Minutes from the previous month approved by voice vote; one clarification was noted regarding a future appearance by Mr. Scott Kuhn on airport improvement plans. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were offered during the meeting. Discussion Items - West Side Strategic Plan / Delta Consultants Task Order: Staff and consultant Karen Franklin presented the updated statement of work. The timeline may slow because of the town manager transition and council election. Council has questioned whether delaying the access road could free money for other priorities, but staff argued the road is needed to unlock the West Side development and that more grant-funded infrastructure can improve the financial return. The plan will produce a roadmap, business case, and grant-application data. Commissioner Cyril asked for the consultant to study which aviation-related businesses are growing at peer GA airports and consider an RFI; Karen Franklin noted recommendations would be a key output and an RFI could be a later step. The commission voted unanimously to approve the project scope/narrative for task order number five so a purchase order can proceed. - Hangar Mural Theme and Friends of Leesburg Public Art: The commission discussed a phased mural concept on the shed and Delta hangars, with themes of Dream, Learn, Fly, Explore, and Future, meant to inspire curiosity and tell an aviation progression. Friends of Leesburg Public Art would manage donated funding; the mural cost is estimated around $10,000, with a removable panel option. Commissioner Dean warned against military aircraft imagery as less inspiring to families; the inspirational progression theme was favored. A motion to adopt the long-term five-theme mural vision passed unanimously. - Taxiway Relocation Design: The project moves the taxiway 37 feet and now includes a redesign that preserves 12-13 tie-down spots by using a painted taxi lane instead of a separate taxiway/taxi lane. Wingtip clearance was modeled and the control tower reviewed it favorably. The same approach is not possible on the other ramp due to grade and storm-drainage issues. - Observation Area and Park: Staff presented an AI-rendered concept for a public observation platform near the north gate and a proposed town-owned two-acre parcel for an airport-themed playground and park, potentially run by the Parks and Recreation department with public-private funding. The deputy town manager suggested private donations; the mayor is supportive. FAA approvals may be needed because airport property would be converted to recreational use. The Walmart side was also discussed as a possible alternate or second location. A motion authorizing the chair to present the concept to the Parks and Recreation meeting next week passed unanimously. - Internship Program: The commission discussed the idea of adding an airport internship, prompted by Manassas adding an intern. Flight-school representatives noted local high school demand and the town’s paid internship model. Civil Air Patrol could help source qualified candidates. No motion was made; staff will explore the idea with HR. - Control Tower Development: The FAA issued a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI), allowing the airport to seek additional design funding. The town applied to the Federal Contract Tower Program (about $120 million available) and for community project/earmark funding through Virginia’s senators and congressmen. Commissioner Cyril recommended adding large JYO letters to the tower, which will be relayed to engineers. The tower’s surveillance system is now live. - Rules, Regulations, and Minimum Standards: Scott distributed a redline draft of updated minimum standards. Discussion covered hangar lease versus rental agreements and a pending Virginia Attorney General’s opinion request, with Bob Wirts tracking it. A small working group will meet to review the document; date to be scheduled. - Operations and Airport Director Report: Construction begins Monday on an electric aircraft charging station near gate five; fence line work is underway at condo hangars. Nova Pilots received AOPA’s number-one flight school recognition from user feedback. Snow removal stayed within budget despite the January ice storm. Year-to-date operations are up 19%. There were 15 noise complaints, mostly from Evergreen Meadows, with five from Lime Stone Terrace and one from a Tavistock resident. Wind data from the AWOS is now available. - Aircraft Personal Property Tax Discussion: Mayor Burke called the commission chair after a town council meeting where a resident asked to revisit taxing aircraft based on value. Council voted not to raise rates this year, but may revisit next February. A working group will refresh historical briefing data to show aircraft are mobile, other airports use low rates, and the airport already collects significant user fees and fuel-flow fees. - FBO Lease: Town Council approved a one-year short-term extension of the FBO lease the night before the meeting. Key Outcomes - Unanimous approval of the West Side Strategic Plan scope/task order (voice vote). - Unanimous adoption of the five-theme mural vision. - Unanimous approval to present the observation-area/park concept to Parks and Recreation. - No formal vote on the internship program; staff will continue exploring it. - Control tower funding applications continue; FONSI obtained. - Next regular meeting: Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at 6 p.m. Nightly runway closures for repaving are scheduled to begin July 6, 2026.

The Leesburg Diversity Commission met on Thursday, March 12, 2026, at 7:04 p.m. to discuss transit services, a logo for the commission, pedestrian safety, and upcoming community events. The commission voted to approve electronic participation for two members and to pursue an Easter proclamation, and directed staff to explore contracting a logo designer. Consent Calendar - Electronic Participation: Members Vanessa (illness) and Melissa (work logistics) were approved to participate electronically by a unanimous voice vote. - Agenda and Minutes: The agenda and meeting minutes from the previous month were approved by motion and second. Staff Reports - Keep Leesburg Beautiful: The town-wide cleanup initiative runs throughout April 2026. A kickoff event is scheduled for April 11, but cleanups can occur any day in April. Interested parties can sign up at leesburgva.gov/klb. - Board and Commission Networking Event: Scheduled for Thursday, April 30, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. (food at 6:00, presentations at 6:30) at Ida Lee’s lower level. Each board/commission will present their work and collaboration ideas. - Latino Festival: Saturday, May 2, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Douglass Community Center. Commission members were reminded to complete a vendor application if they wish to participate. Discussion Items Loudoun County Transit On-Demand Services Presentation Scott Gross, Assistant Director for Transit and Commuter Services for Loudoun County, presented an overview of two on-demand services available in Leesburg: - Paratransit Service: For individuals with qualified disabilities (physical or mental). Qualification is handled through ADARide.com by a doctor’s certification. Service operates along any fixed route within 3/4 mile, roughly from 4:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Rides must be booked 24 hours in advance (same-day rides not guaranteed). The service is point-to-point with curb-to-curb dropoffs; no drivers enter buildings. Currently serves about 120 qualified customers. Complaints are measured per 10,000 miles; the rate is very low (0.2–0.5 per 10,000 miles). Transit staff reviews training records with the contractor if issues arise. - Microtransit Service: Launched July 1, 2025, within a six-square-mile zone inside Leesburg (inside Route 15/Route 7). Vehicles include an all-electric “Game Changer” with a wheelchair lift and a minivan without a lift. The service is free and operates 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Riders book via an app and are picked up within roughly a quarter-mile of their location. Shared rides are encouraged; approximately 60% of trips are shared. Average ride duration is about 11 minutes. Ridership averages 140–155 passengers per day (almost 4 riders per revenue hour, a high rate nationally). The service will expand to weekends (Saturday and Sunday, likely 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.) starting July 1, 2026. A similar Sterling pilot begins the same date. Microtransit has not reduced ridership on fixed routes 55, 56, and 57; those routes have actually seen increased ridership. A transit master plan will begin in the coming months to evaluate the future of fixed routes in Leesburg. Funding comes primarily from local real estate taxes and state grants; the county’s transit budget is approximately $30 million for fiscal year 2026. - Senior Paratransit: Currently not available due to vehicle constraints. The county is considering adding seniors 65+ to paratransit but needs additional vehicles. A reduced fare for seniors/disabled riders on commuter buses to Washington, D.C., was recently approved (50% off; $6 instead of $12). Commissioners asked detailed questions about rider qualifications, driver training, complaint tracking, service hours, and expansion plans. Mr. Gross answered all questions. Logo Call to Artists Staff reported that two logo submissions were received, but both were submitted after the deadline. Following consultation with the town attorney, late submissions cannot be considered to avoid legal concerns. The commission discussed options: - Reissue a third call for artists. - Contract a local artist/graphic designer. - Approach high school art departments as a contest. - One commissioner suggested contacting local designer Alicia Bruce or muralist Daniel Hunter. Commissioners expressed a preference for contracting a local artist rather than issuing another call. Staff will consult procurement on the process for hiring a contractor with the $500 stipend and report back at the April meeting. The idea of partnering with high schools for future logo work was also noted. Follow-up with Residential Traffic Commission (RTC) The RTC met earlier in March but two of the liaison members were absent. Discussion of potential collaboration on a driver safety campaign was deferred to the RTC’s April meeting. The Diversity Commission will await their input. Driver Safety Awareness Campaign A commissioner presented research on a crosswalk flag program similar to one in Wyoming, where pedestrians carry bright flags while crossing. The town had previously piloted flags at one location. The commissioner also noted Virginia state law (SB 1416) that upgrades penalties for drivers causing injury or death, but argued preemptive penalties (like school zone speed fines) might be more effective. The commission agreed to review the provided links and place the topic on the April agenda. Results from the town’s existing flag pilot should be considered before making recommendations. Painted Crosswalk Proposal Discussion of funding a painted crosswalk (e.g., a rainbow crosswalk for Pride) revealed that the cost is approximately $3,000–$3,500 annually, plus traffic control logistics. The commission’s budget cannot support this alone. Ideas were raised to partner with other town commissions or nonprofits (e.g., Equality Loudoun, Loudoun Pride, PFLAG) and to target a crosswalk at Rotary Park on North King Street. This topic will be raised at the April 30 Board and Commission Networking Event to seek collaborators. Commissioner Updates - Vanessa: Contacted Economic Development about sponsoring a diversity-themed award at the 2027 Leesburg Business Awards; received a positive initial response and will follow up. Submitted paperwork for a Pride flag raising at town hall on June 5, 2026 (5:00–7:00 p.m.); the commission may host a table or activity. The “Faces of Leesburg” portrait series is restarting with a new photographer; the commission is invited to submit diverse individuals (especially men) for features. - Proclamations: A commissioner proposed an Easter proclamation. The deadline for the next town council meeting (two weeks from March 12) is early next week. Vanessa volunteered to identify a recipient (likely a clergy member from a downtown church) and draft the proclamation. The commission moved and seconded to proceed with the Easter proclamation. Key Outcomes - Votes: Electronic participation for Vanessa and Melissa was approved unanimously. The agenda and previous minutes were approved. The Easter proclamation was approved by motion and second. - Direction to Staff: Staff will consult with procurement on the process for contracting a logo designer and report back at the April meeting. - Next Steps for Painted Crosswalk: The topic will be presented as a collaboration opportunity at the April 30 networking event. The commission will identify potential partner commissions and the preferred crosswalk location (Rotary Park favored). - Meeting Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned by motion at approximately 9:05 p.m.

The Library Board of Trustees met on March 12, 2026, to receive the library director's monthly report, discuss upcoming programs, and address ongoing projects including the St. James Cemetery, Oakhill preservation, the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, and the town's purchase of Rock Spring farm. The meeting was called to order and the minutes from February 11 were approved unanimously. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The minutes from the February 11 meeting were approved by all in favor. Discussion Items - Library Director's Monthly Report: - Despite being open only 25 days in February, the library had over 3,000 visitors. Black History Month programming included a pop-up exhibit at Luckett's Community Center, a talk by Fairfax Historic Court Records staff, and Civil War pop-up exhibits at Stonebridge High School. Media interviews with Fox 5 and NBC4 aired. - New collections acquired: postcards of downtown Leesburg and materials related to the Culpeper Bottling Plant (a former Leesburg business on South King Street). The library is still seeking photographs of the plant. Also acquired were bottle caps from the plant. A desk and five chairs (originally from the library in 1922) were returned from conservation and placed in the reading room. - New programs piloted: "Sit and Stitch" (craft night with Travis Shaw demonstrating revoultionary war hunting shirt sewing) and board game nights. Both attracted multi-generational attendees. The library's meeting room is now regularly rented by a mahjong group. - Periodicals binding: 30 volumes were bound at a bindery in Pennsylvania, saving shelf space and preserving fragile newsletters. The cataloging librarian (Echo) coordinated the effort. - Friends of the Library update: Membership structure clarified – a single $35 fee covers Friends membership with an option to join the Black History Committee. A book sale is scheduled for April 18 (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.) in conjunction with the Flower and Garden Show. The Black History Committee debuted an oral history of Jim Roberts at Douglas School’s Black History Month celebration; a full showing at the library is planned. - Foundation: Diane Helm Jared has agreed to serve; nomination will go to the town council after the budget cycle. The Belch Family Trust funds have been received and invested. - Budget: The director presented a budget to the board; furniture purchases are under consideration. - St. James Cemetery: Ground penetrating radar readings were returned, showing many burials (estimated up to 400). The town is considering next steps, possibly including a water feature or sculpture, signage, and future meetings with the town. A meeting with stakeholders is proposed for June or July 2026. - Oakhill Preservation: The state budget line championed by former Representative Spanberger was removed, effectively killing the preservation bill for this year. A petition is circulating to reconsider in April. The county is unlikely to fund it, and the federal government declined. The director noted that earlier preservation efforts were missed. - 250th Anniversary of American Revolution Events: The town launched a website aggregating all 250-related events in Leesburg. A new program series, "Revolution on Screen," will feature local historians discussing film and TV depictions of the Revolutionary War (first up: Disney's Ben and Me). Sessions run monthly through at least September. A scholarly publication of essays on recent research on the Revolution in Loudoun County is underway, with essays due in mid-April. An introductory essay has been commissioned. Partnerships with Loudoun 250 communications committee and other organizations continue. - Virginia Forum: The director and board member Jim have been registered for the forum, to be held the following week in Winchester. The board discussed the schedule and the benefit of networking for future speakers. - Annual Report to Town Council: Scheduled as a memo in October (Archives Month). The board agreed to this timeline. The director will prepare a brief slide presentation emphasizing community engagement (visitor numbers, new programs) and collaboration with other commissions, particularly regarding the 250th events. - Rock Spring Farm Purchase: The town council voted to move forward with purchasing the historic Rock Spring (Cook Farm) property off Dry Mill Road. A public hearing is required before funds can be appropriated. The town is primarily interested in preserving green space; the historic house contains a spring in the basement. The property was the site of Leesburg's historic sledding hill. The library director mentioned that the Cook family donated some papers and World War I materials to the library. Key Outcomes - Minutes Approved. - Annual Report to Town Council: Set for October 2026 (as a memo with optional presentation). - St. James Cemetery: Next steps include a stakeholder meeting tentatively in June or July 2026 to discuss design concepts (water feature, sculpture, signage) with the town. - Oakhill Preservation: State funding eliminated for this year; a petition may lead to reconsideration in April. - Library 250 Events: Continue as planned; the board encouraged inviting other commissions to participate. - Rock Spring Purchase: Town council has voted to proceed; a public hearing will be held before finalizing funds. - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned after commissioner comments.

The Leesburg Town Council met on March 10, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber. The meeting included proclamations, approval of consent items, discussion of one-way street designations, approval of land purchase contracts, and a public hearing on the FY2027 proposed budget. Notably, the date in the transcript is incorrectly stated as 2025; the correct date per the agenda and metadata is March 10, 2026. Proclamations - Save Soil Day (March 21, 2026): Mayor Burke read a proclamation recognizing March 21, 2026, as Save Soil Day in Leesburg, highlighting the global movement to address soil degradation. Councilmember Nacy moved, Vice Mayor seconded; the proclamation passed 5-0-2. Allison Callaway accepted and spoke about the connection between "human" and "humus." - Ramadan 2026: A proclamation recognizing the holy month of Ramadan was presented. Councilmember Cummings moved, Vice Mayor seconded; passed 5-0-2. Sajjad Ahmad, Executive Director of the All Dulles Area Muslim Society (ADAMS), accepted and invited the public to iftar celebrations at the ADAMS Leesburg branch through March 19, 2026. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda (Items 12a-d) was approved 5-0-2: - Child Abuse Awareness and Prevention Month - Fiscal Year 2027 Creative Communities Partnership Grant - Fixed Base Operator Second Lease Extension Agreement with Kuhn Jet Center, LLC - Appointment of Michael May to the Airport Commission Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak during the petitioners section or the public hearing. The public hearing on the FY2027 budget was closed with no testimony. Discussion Items - Designation and Modification of One-Way Side Streets (Resolution 13a): Councilmember Krukowski made a motion to approve the ordinance designating additional one-way streets. Councilmember Nacy seconded. During discussion, Krukowski proposed a friendly amendment to only make Wort Street one-way, but the amendment did not receive support. The mayor noted lack of consensus and the motion effectively failed; the council did not proceed with a vote. Staff's work was acknowledged. - Approval of Contracts for Purchase of Rock Spring Farm Parcels (Resolution 13b): Councilmember Cummings moved to approve the contracts; Councilmember Nacy seconded. Supporters cited preservation of historic property, green space, and a sledding hill used for over 60 years. Vice Mayor opposed, arguing the price was double the appraisal, the property would never be developed, and the town was taking on too much debt. The motion passed 3-2-2 (3 in favor, 2 opposed, 2 abstentions). Public Hearing: FY2027 Proposed Budget - Staff presented the proposed budget: $201 million total, with a $94 million general fund. The budget maintains the real estate tax rate at 17.74 cents per $100 assessed value. Key uses of reserves include $3.7 million from debt service reserve, $1.5 million from data center revenue, and $2.1 million from unassigned fund balance for one-time costs. Two optional enhanced funding scenarios for pavement management and public safety were noted. Council discussed the strategic use of reserves, with Vice Mayor expressing concern about drawing down debt service reserves. The mayor clarified that the practice has been used successfully for years to avoid tax rate increases. No public speakers; the hearing was closed without action. Key Outcomes - Proclamations approved 5-0-2 for Save Soil Day and Ramadan 2026. - Consent agenda approved 5-0-2. - One-way street ordinance – motion made and seconded but failed to advance due to lack of support; no formal vote. - Rock Spring Farm purchase contracts approved 3-2-2. - Budget public hearing held; no action taken. Next steps: final markup work session March 23, tax rate hearing March 24, and budget adoption. - Council announcements: Mayor noted interpretive sign at Black History Mural, visits to Newton Elementary and Blue Ridge Middle School, start of Lawson Road Bridge construction, and a Meet the Mayor event at IHOP.

The Leesburg Commission on Public Arts (COPA) met on March 9, 2026, from approximately 5:31 PM to 6:26 PM. The commission approved the agenda, approved meeting minutes, elected a new chair and secretary, and allocated $10,000 in Creative Communities Grant funding to five local arts organizations. Various ongoing projects were also discussed, including the Arts Parks sculpture program, the Paint Plow initiative, the Heart Project, and potential future exhibitions. Consent Calendar - Agenda Approval: Motion to approve the agenda with no changes; passed unanimously by voice vote. - Electronic Participation: Motion to allow Commissioner Tira to participate electronically; seconded and passed unanimously. - January 2025 Meeting Minutes: Motion to approve the minutes; passed with 4 in favor (one member absent). - February 2025 Special Meeting Minutes: Motion to approve the minutes; passed unanimously. Discussion Items - Election of Chair and Secretary: - Jeanette was nominated and seconded for Chair; passed unanimously (Jeanette abstained from voting). - Wen was nominated and seconded for Secretary after she arrived; passed unanimously. - Creative Communities Grant Allocations: - Staff member Rita presented applications for five eligible organizations (one ineligible due to ties to Parks and Rec). Total grant pool is $10,000 ($4,500 from Virginia Commission for the Arts, $5,500 town match). - Applicants and their requests: Love Ballet ($2,500), A Place to Be ($2,000, new applicant), Friends of Leesburg Public Arts (FULPA, $10,000), Loudoun Community Band ($1,000), Loudoun Coral ($2,250). Total requests: $17,750. - Commissioners debated various funding formulas. Decision: fund returning applicants at last year's levels ($1,375 for Love Ballet, $750 for Loudoun Community Band, $1,375 for Loudoun Coral), allocate $500 to new applicant A Place to Be, and give remaining $6,000 to FULPA. - Paint Plow Program: - Designs approved; delivery to schools pending final snow clearance. - Correction: school supply reimbursement was mistakenly recorded as $100; should be $125. Motion to amend the November 2025 minutes to reflect correct $125 reimbursement; passed unanimously. - Arts Parks Sculpture Program: - Five sculptures need replacement; no applications received yet (expect last-minute submissions). - Logo submissions missed deadline; COPA will wait for guidance from the Varsity Commission before voting. - Heart Project: - Tira reported sponsorship progress: one platinum sponsor (KM) and two $500 sponsorships secured. FULPA will sponsor one remaining unsponsored heart. - Installation logistics: hearts picked up from artists, prototypes of bases being made, need to coordinate installation at iTopia (private property). - Marketing materials (map, postcards, stickers) discussed; budget to be determined after spending update from finance. - Budget and COPA Funding: - COPA itself is seeking $2,500 in town funding. Commissioners urged to contact council for full funding to support ongoing and new projects. - Other Updates (Leah): - Boards and Commissions Networking Event: April 30, 6:00–6:30 PM at Ida Lee (presentations due by April 23, under 3 minutes). - New art exhibit at airport for Women's History Month; Town Hall exhibit installation scheduled for March 12. - Mural at airport: conversation initiated with airport commission; sponsorship model provided as example. - Trolls Exhibition (Good of the Group): - Commissioner shared experience with Thomas Dambo's troll sculptures in North Carolina, proposing a temporary exhibit in Loudoun County. Discussed potential tourism draw and possible partnership with Visit Loudoun and Leesburg Downtown. Key Outcomes - Election Results: Jeanette elected Chair; Wen elected Secretary. - Grant Funding Approved (unanimous): - Love Ballet: $1,375 - A Place to Be: $500 - Loudoun Community Band: $750 - Loudoun Coral: $1,375 - Friends of Leesburg Public Arts: $6,000 - Total: $10,000 allocated. - Paint Plow Reimbursement Amendment: November 2025 minutes corrected to show $125 per school reimbursement; passed unanimously. - Future Action: Commissioner will contact Visit Loudoun regarding the troll exhibit proposal; staff will provide budget update for Heart Project marketing.

The Leesburg Town Council held a work session on March 9, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber to continue discussions on the proposed FY2027 budget. The session covered the general fund unassigned fund balance, capital improvements program (CIP), utilities fund budget, and initial budget markup with a series of straw poll votes on funding priorities. General Fund Unassigned Fund Balance - Tamara Keesecker, Management and Budget Officer, reviewed the unassigned fund balance. As of June 30, 2025, the balance was $30.6 million (39% of expenditures), but a forward-looking approach projects $25.7 million (27% of FY27 proposed expenditures of $94 million) by June 2027. The policy minimum is 20%. The excess provides cash-flow flexibility, supports the AAA bond rating, and allows for unexpected costs (e.g., weather, pandemic). Interest earned on excess ($675,000) equals about half a penny on the tax rate. - Staff noted the snow contingency is $790,000; only $300,000 has been used so far. Capital Improvements Program (FY2027-2032) - Doug Wagner, Assistant Director of Capital Projects, presented the CIP. The plan includes 66 projects; FY27 has 32 active projects totaling $71.4 million. Streets and highways represent 73% of the total CIP. Key projects: pickleball courts (completion early fall 2026), Veterans Park (early summer 2026), East Market Street improvements (construction in FY31), King Street improvements (construction in 2032), Air Traffic Control Tower ($19.4M total, town share $443,000). - Planning Commission recommendations included addressing intersections with Level of Service D or below, improving Plaza Street lighting, and prioritizing pedestrian safety projects. - Discussion items: airport west side access road ($500,000 in CIP for grant applications), condo hangar replacement ($2.8M), FBO hangar purchase ($2.785M, town-financed), wayfinding signage (digital kiosk $58,000, sign replacement $550,000), and the 16 Wirt Street property (potential parking, opposed by BAR as contributing structure). Utilities Fund Budget - Amy Wex presented the utilities fund (water and wastewater), funded entirely by user fees. FY27 proposed budget: operations $28.9M, debt service $6M, capital projects $43.7M (including $33M for solids processing improvement). Average residential bill increase: 4.1%. - Key enhancements: $400,000 for inspection/cleaning of large wastewater pipes (last done 10 years ago); $100,000 for transitioning to external utility locating service. - PFAS testing plan discussed for calendar year; no current detects in drinking water. Budget Markup and Straw Poll Votes Tamara Keesecker noted two changes from the proposed budget: health insurance increase came in at 12.7% instead of budgeted 25%, saving $700,000; and the county reduced landfill fee waivers from $100,000 to $32,000, leaving a $60,000 shortfall. Council then conducted a series of straw poll votes (all votes are straw polls unless noted): - COLA change: Councilmember Cummings proposed a flat $2,000 lump sum instead of 2% COLA. After discussion, council directed staff to research feasibility and report back. - Boards and Commissions requests: Approved full one-time funding of $26,875 (excluding the $175,000 traffic study), using prior-year data center revenue. Approved unanimously (all eight members present supported). - Bike lane master plan ($200,000): Councilmember Cummings moved to remove it; motion passed 7-1 (Cummings opposed). - ADA compliance evaluation ($25,000): Added as one-time, funded from unassigned fund balance. Passed 7-1 (Wilt opposed). - Police Lieutenant Watch Commander ($185,000): Funded with $94,000 one-time costs from unassigned fund balance; recurring portion will impact tax rate. Passed 7-1 (Wilt opposed). - Police co-responder program: Councilmember Kirkowski added; cost split between one-time (unassigned fund balance) and recurring (tax impact). Passed 4-3 (Cummings, Burke, Nasi, Kirkowski in favor; Vice Mayor Semino-Johnson and others opposed – only four counted). - Health insurance savings ($700,000): Incorporated into budget to offset tax rate. Passed unanimously. - Landfill fee waiver shortfall ($60,000): Added to budget. Passed unanimously. - Milling and paving: Council selected Option C ($1.45 million per year for 10 years, achieving average PCI of 72). Funded with $1 million from data center computer equipment tax and $450,000 from property tax. Motion passed 7-1 (Wilt opposed). Staff noted an additional resource may be needed to manage increased work. Closed Session - Council moved into closed session under Va. Code § 2.2-3711(A)(3) to discuss potential acquisition of real properties. Motion passed 6-0-1 (one abstention). Upon return, council certified compliance with FOIA requirements. Proclamation Requests - Ramadan Proclamation: Approved (4 votes) for presentation March 10, 2026. - Keep Leesburg Beautiful Month: Approved unanimously for presentation at the March 24 meeting. Future Agenda Items - Work session on Plaza Street lighting (4 votes). - Councilmember Vice Mayor requested staff response to a memo on traffic gaps (4 votes).

The Town of Leesburg OPEB Trust Finance Board met on March 5, 2026, to review fourth-quarter 2025 portfolio performance, discuss asset allocation and fixed income strategies, approve prior meeting minutes, and plan future discussions. The meeting included reports from PFM Asset Management on financial markets, portfolio returns, and proposed asset allocation models. Opening and Roll Call The meeting began with a roll call. Two new appointments were announced: Sandra Gresson as a citizen member (former small library director, appointment effective February 24, 2026) and Octavia Andrew as the chief procurement officer. Vice Mayor Seminal Johnson and management/budget officer Tamara Keesecker were present. Remote participation for Josh was approved by motion and seconded, with a unanimous vote in favor. Approval of Minutes A motion was made and seconded to approve the minutes from the December 3, 2025 meeting. The motion passed unanimously. Market and Economic Overview (PFM Presentation) Jack Schnorbus (PFM) provided an economic update. Key points: - Fourth quarter 2025 featured a 43-day government shutdown, leading to data distortions. - The Federal Reserve cut rates twice in Q4 due to softer labor markets; full-year job growth was 181,000 jobs (down from 1.4 million the prior year), averaging about 15,000 per month. - January 2026 labor report showed 130,000 jobs added, with healthcare and construction (33,000 jobs) as bright spots. - Inflation moderated: January headline CPI 2.4%, core 2.5% (lowest since 2021), but shelter and healthcare services remain elevated. - Q4 GDP came in at 1.4% (well below the 2.5% expected), and full-year 2025 GDP was 2.2% (down from 2.8%). Federal spending fell 16% in Q4, the largest decline since 1972. - The Fed's dot plot projects two additional 25-basis-point cuts in 2026, possibly in June/July. - Fixed income returns were strong (Barclays US Aggregate up 7.3% for the year); credit spreads remain tight. Portfolio Performance Review (Alison Corbeli, PFM) Alison Corbeli presented the OPEB trust performance for Q4 2025 and the calendar year: - For 2025, the portfolio returned 15.8%, trailing the benchmark (16.25%) due to an earlier underweight to equities following Liberation Day (April 2025 tariff concerns). - For Q4, the portfolio returned 2.18% (benchmark 2.4%), driven by slight underperformance in fixed income (1.07% vs. 1.1%) and minor index tracking differences. - The portfolio's asset allocation remains approximately 60% equities / 40% fixed income (target 60/40). It is allowed to drift; rebalancing is considered when equity exposure exceeds 2% above target. - Fees: Active fixed income managers (Baird Core Plus) cost 30 basis points; passive equity ETFs cost 3 basis points. The portfolio's returns are net of manager fees. The total investment management fee (advisory) is separate and shown as a cash flow line. - A committee member asked about downside risk in a potential equity bubble. PFM acknowledged high valuations (US equity PE ratios well above five-year averages) and noted the portfolio is managed conservatively with a neutral stance. Asset Allocation Modeling Discussion PFM presented several asset allocation scenarios using Monte Carlo simulations: 1. Current 60/40 (equities/fixed income). 2. 65/35 (more equity). 3. 50/50 (more fixed income). 4. 60/40 with listed real assets (e.g., REITs) and a small high-yield bond allocation. - The model including real assets and high yield showed a slight reduction in standard deviation (approx. 1% lower) while maintaining similar expected returns. - A board member noted the plan is closed (no new participants as of April 2016), raising the question of whether a liability-driven investment (LDI) approach is appropriate. PFM recommended obtaining the most recent actuary report to run a more tailored analysis. - The committee agreed to bring the actuary report to a future meeting to inform asset allocation decisions. Fixed Income Manager Review PFM reviewed the active fixed income managers in the portfolio (Baird Core Plus, PGIM, and Boya): - Baird Core Plus has outperformed its benchmark (Bloomberg Aggregate) by approximately 5 basis points per year over the holding period. A growth-of-dollar analysis showed an additional $109,000 earned versus a passive ETF since inception (2016). - PGIM and Boya have small sleeves (less than 1% of holdings) rated below B, but both funds overall maintain A or AA ratings. Mortgage exposure is slightly above benchmark but default rates are low (4% currently vs. 11-12% in 2010). - The committee expressed satisfaction with the active fixed income managers given their net-of-fee outperformance. PFM Contract Renewal PFM notified the board that the investment management contract expires at the end of March 2026 and will automatically renew for one year unless terminated. No action was taken. Future Agenda Items A motion was made to add a discussion of the actuary report to the next board meeting to help guide asset allocation strategy. The motion passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Approved minutes of December 3, 2025 (unanimous). - Approved remote participation for Josh (unanimous). - Directed staff to obtain the latest actuary report for review at the next meeting to inform asset allocation modeling. - Noted the automatic renewal of the PFM contract; no termination action taken. - Meeting adjourned at 3:01 PM. Note: The original transcript refers to "Leedsburg" but the correct municipality is Leesburg, VA. The date used is March 5, 2026 as provided, despite the transcript stating February 25, 2026.

The Leesburg Planning Commission held a regular meeting on March 5, 2026, focused primarily on the zoning ordinance rewrite, a legislative update, and the 2025 annual report. Commissioners discussed attainable housing options, density, neighborhood commercial zoning, and planned a joint meeting with the Town Council. The meeting lasted several hours and concluded with direction to staff on several items. Consent Calendar - Adoption of Agenda: Approved unanimously. - Approval of February 19, 2026 Minutes: Approved with two abstentions and one absence. Public Comments & Testimony - No petitioners signed up, but Chair Campbell stated the commission is always open to hearing from the public. Discussion Items - Zoning Ordinance Rewrite – Attainable Housing Concept: Staff presented a concept for 100% attainable for‑rent prefabricated housing on a single lot (duplexes, triplexes, etc.). Commissioners explored whether the current code allows such development. Key challenges include lack of definitions for private roads, building separation requirements, and the need for a new dwelling unit type. After debate, the commission gave staff direction to explore creating a new development option specifically for 100% attainable housing projects. - Commissioner Barnes noted that vertical apartments could provide more units on the same land, but staff acknowledged the concept aims for a different product at a lower construction cost. - Commissioner Robinson requested that manufactured housing layout standards also be reviewed alongside the attainable housing option. - Density and Walkability – Commercial Neighborhood Zones: Commissioner Tuck clarified that her earlier map showing “red dots” was not a proposal for spot rezoning but illustrated large neighborhoods without access to daily amenities. The commission discussed using the Exeter neighborhood (with a small commercial strip) as a model for future opportunities. Staff agreed to study the zoning map in those areas. - Joint Planning Commission / Town Council Meeting (April 2, 2026): Staff outlined plans for a joint meeting where the commission will present highlights of the zoning rewrite and convey parallel recommendations (e.g., updating the affordable housing MOU with the county, focusing on transportation network improvements). Commissioner Barnes opposed the joint meeting, arguing the commission’s role is to write the ordinance without council input. Other commissioners supported the meeting as an opportunity to share their work and receive questions. - 2026 Virginia General Assembly Legislative Update: Staff reviewed bills affecting land use, including: - Supported bills: Bag tax (HB 341), data center siting and water use disclosure (HB 496), EV charging infrastructure (HB 433). - Concerns: Administrative approval of housing on faith‑based/nonprofit land (HB/SB – allows by‑right development on church property with 60% affordable units); manufactured housing in all residential zones; accessory dwelling unit (ADU) bill that passed but exempts localities with pre‑2026 ADU ordinances (Leesburg has one); small lot residential district required for lots ≤3,000 sq ft (HB 1212); reduced parking near mass transit (bill under negotiation). - Staff noted several bills are still pending, and a final summary will be provided at the next meeting. - 2025 Planning Commission Annual Report: Presented by Clerk Sarah Boeing. Highlights included over 400 comments on the zoning ordinance, 2.5+ hours per month of discussion, and a graphic showing the time breakdown. The report will be submitted to the Town Council in April. - Agenda Forecast: Staff mentioned an upcoming rezoning for the Liberty Hotel (Russell Branch Parkway) and council‑initiated amendments to the downtown floodplain overlay (allowing mixed‑use, fill, and parking lots per revised FEMA guidance). A Crescent District streetscape study will be presented in May. Key Outcomes - The commission directed staff to draft an attainable housing development option for 100% attainable projects and report back. This will be pursued after the current zoning rewrite is delivered to council. - Staff will compile a list of “hot buttons” for the April 2 joint meeting with Town Council, to be discussed at the March 19 meeting. - The 2025 annual report accepted; will be forwarded to council. - Staff will provide a final legislative update at the next meeting after the General Assembly session ends. - The floodplain overlay amendments and Crescent District study are scheduled for upcoming meetings.