Public Meetings - Leesburg, Virginia

The Leesburg Town Council held a work session on June 22, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber. Four council members were present (a quorum), with three absent. The agenda included two major discussion items: a stormwater utility funding proposal and a kickoff of the zoning ordinance rewrite. The council provided direction to staff on the stormwater utility rate methodology and reviewed the work plan for the zoning rewrite. Proclamations were approved, and a consent agenda item was moved. Discussion Items - Stormwater Utility Discussion (Chad Minnick, Elizabeth Treadway from WSP): - Staff presented a stormwater utility fee structure to fund regulatory compliance, capital improvements, and operations. Two rate methodologies were evaluated: an Equivalent Residential Unit (ERU) approach (flat fee for all single-family homes) and a straight impervious area (IA) fee (per 1,000 sq ft of impervious surface). - The ERU approach would charge all single-family homes $135/year ($11.25/month), while the IA method would vary by impervious area, with an average of $63/year per billing unit ($5.25/month). Under IA, a small home (1,861 sq ft) would pay $126/year, and a large home (9,400 sq ft) would pay $567/year. - Non-taxable properties (e.g., government, nonprofits) would contribute under either utility structure, which is not the case under the current property tax funding. The utility would also enable a credit policy for private stormwater investments, as required by state enabling legislation. - Council members asked about cost drivers, equity, and impacts on residents. The projected revenue needed grows from $2.2 million in FY27 (current tax-funded) to $5.5 million by FY32 under a utility, driven by debt service for capital projects and compliance activities not fully performed today. - Council discussion revealed a split: Councilmembers Steinberg and Wilt preferred the IA fee (more equitable for larger properties), while Councilmember Krukowski initially favored ERU (to protect small homeowners) but later switched to IA after learning the floor could be lower. Mayor and Councilmember Wilkes also supported IA. The council unanimously (4-0) directed staff to pursue the impervious area (IA) utility fee methodology. - Zoning Ordinance Rewrite – Kickoff and Council Work Plan (James David, Brian Mabry from Kendight Collaborative): - The draft zoning ordinance rewrite, resulting from a three-year process, was presented. Highlights included organizational changes (18 articles reduced to 9), modernized formatting, and content updates such as combining zoning districts, new use categories, limited uses, accessory dwelling unit changes, short-term rental regulations, reduced parking requirements, bike parking, open space flexibility, sustainability incentives, and attainable housing provisions. - The planning commission recommended approval (6-1 vote) after 23 meetings and extensive public engagement (over 180 digital comments, 2,450+ from public presentations, and 2,000+ staff comments). - The council adopted a work plan for review: July 13 (Articles 1 & 2 – general provisions and zoning districts), July 27 and August 24 (Article 3 – use regulations), September 8 (Article 4 – development standards), then Articles 5-9 in subsequent meetings. A deep dive list for specific topics (e.g., short-term rentals) will be used. Public hearing tentatively scheduled for November 10, adoption on November 23. - Councilmember Steinberg inquired about state legislation affecting the rewrite; staff noted the manufactured housing bill was already addressed, and other changes would be incorporated as needed. Key Outcomes - Stormwater Utility: The council unanimously directed staff to proceed with developing an impervious area (IA) fee structure. Staff will refine the program, including credit policies, and return for a public hearing and ordinance adoption by end of 2026 for implementation in FY28. - Zoning Ordinance Rewrite: The council approved the work plan for review of the draft ordinance through work sessions from July to November 2026. - Proclamations: Council approved three proclamations: Disability Pride Month (July 2026, presentation July 14), Childhood Cancer Awareness Month (September 2026, presentation August 25), and Leesburg Day 2026 (presentation September 22). - Consent Agenda: The council voted to move the reauthorization of a contract with Axon Enterprises (a five-year, no-new-funds agreement) to the consent agenda for the June 23 meeting.

The Leesburg Parks and Recreation Commission met on June 18, 2026, to discuss park maintenance, trail safety, the pickleball project, master plan updates, and staff transitions. The meeting included citizen comments, staff reports, and committee updates. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from the May 20, 2026, meeting. - Voted to allow member Keirsten to participate remotely. Public Comments & Testimony - Patrick raised multiple items: parking on grass at Robertson Park during swim meets, an update request on the Play All Day event, the status of compost bins at Sporting Park, traffic flow and safety issues at Freedom Park (including missing arrow signs, bleacher end caps, and bathroom cosmetics), and a suggestion for a bottle filler. He also highlighted a dangerous situation at the South King Street multi-use trail underpass where cars frequently crash through the fence, recommending bollards for protection. Lastly, he discussed the fragmented multi-use trail along Battlefield Parkway, requiring multiple road crossings, and advocated for a complete trail map and connection plan. - Laurie noted that the Robinson Park sign has been replaced but other signs are sun-bleached, updated on the Fox Ridge playground odor testing, reported that Rock Spring property has been purchased by the town, and mentioned ongoing planning for the 250th anniversary celebration. - Ross (commission member) shared county-level updates from a recent Pros Board meeting, including trail development at Banshee Reeks, horse access negotiations, a new county arts program, budget tightening, and various park projects. Discussion Items - South King Street Trail Safety: The commission decided to send a formal inquiry (with video evidence) to Public Works and the Traffic Commission to request installation of protective bollards, citing repeated vehicle incursions. - Trail Map and Connectivity: Members discussed coordinating with the county GIS to update the official trail map, filling gaps in the multi-use network, and advocating for a comprehensive bike and pedestrian plan. The commission will contact town GIS staff to initiate updates. - Rock Spring Property: The town closed on the purchase; a funding request for pasture maintenance and fencing (opens as a passive park) will go before council on June 22. Council will later decide whether to retain or sell the farmhouse. The commission expressed interest in being consulted early in the decision process. - Pickleball Project: Construction is on track for a fall opening at Freedom Park (softball side). The commission ordered 1,000 custom logo pickleballs. Discussion covered tournament logistics (logo finalization, QR code setup, registration timing) and ball distribution at events like Flower & Garden or the tree lighting. Details will be finalized at the next meeting with sports staff input. - Master Plan Update: The master plan is still in draft; staff have not completed supporting documents for review. The timeline may slip. No preview was available. - Veterans Park: A ribbon-cutting is tentatively set for August 26, 2026 (4 p.m.), though the large pavilion may not be installed until later. The trail from the mill to the boat ramp has been GPS-marked. - Director Retirement: The parks director announced retirement effective January 2027. The town will initiate recruitment, likely allowing a 5-month transition period with overlap. The commission expects some involvement in the selection. - Other Updates: Fox Ridge playground odor test results pending (5 business days); county-level budget tightening and arts program hiring; discussion of e-bike safety concerns on trails. Key Outcomes - The commission will send a joint letter (with video) to Public Works and the Traffic Commission recommending bollards at the South King Street underpass trail. - Staff will connect with town GIS to update the county trail map to include all town multi-use paths. - A funding request for Rock Spring pasture maintenance will be heard by council on June 22; the commission will monitor and provide input as needed. - Pickleball tournament planning (logo, QR code, distribution) will continue at the next meeting, with sports staff invited. - Recruitment for the parks director will begin; the commission will be kept informed and likely participate in interviews. - No decisions were made on the master plan; further updates expected at a future meeting.

The Leesburg Board of Architectural Review (BAR) met on June 17, 2026, at 7:00 PM in Council Chambers to consider several applications in the historic districts. The meeting lasted approximately four hours, adjourning just before 11:00 PM. Key actions included approvals of a consent agenda, a comprehensive sign plan, and a porch enclosure system, as well as deferrals of several contested projects for further design revisions. Consent Calendar - TLHPBR2026-0017 – 207 Church Street SE, Front Door Replacement: Approved by consent (7-0). Discussion Items - Agenda Adjustment: Unanimously voted (7-0) to move deferred cases to the beginning of the agenda. - TLHPBR2026-0010 – 213 West Market Street, Sunroom Addition: Deferred to the July 15, 2026 meeting. The board expressed concerns about an unusual roof connection and requested a redesign (preferably a gable roof rather than a shed roof). The applicant must provide specific drawings, window cut sheets, and a material sample for staff review. - TLHPBR2026-0012 – 212 South King Street, Amendment to TLHPBR2025-0053: Partially approved and partially denied. The request to keep the six-over-six windows (installed in error) was denied; the applicant must replace them with previously approved two-over-two sashes. The request to retain new doors without transoms was approved. Vote was 6-0-1 (Brown recused). - TLHPBR2025-0083 – 203 Harrison Street SE, Market Station Comprehensive Sign Plan: Approved with conditions. The plan includes various building signs and addresses unapproved parking signs. The board required removal of unapproved signage and modification of the yellow parking signs to a consistent red-and-white color scheme, to be reviewed by staff. Vote: 7-0. - TLHPBR2026-0015 – 115 Maximillian Court SW, Amendment to TLHPBR2025-0014: Deferred to the August 3, 2026 work session. The applicant was not present; the board requested cut sheets and HOA color palette information. - TLHPBR2026-0018 – 7 Royal Street SE, Addition: Deferred to July 15, 2026. The board raised issues with proposed shutters (inappropriate for the structure), window infill on the historic building, parking location in front, and inaccurate drawings. The applicant agreed to provide corrected elevations and details. - TLHPBR2026-0019 – 9 Royal Street SE, Addition: Deferred to July 15, 2026. Significant concerns were raised about raising the historic roof height, overall massing of the addition, and a proposed logia (deemed too ornate and not subordinate to the main structure). The board requested a simplified design for the logia (e.g., board-and-batten) and a more harmonious relationship with the historic house. Public comment strongly opposed the project. - TLHPBR2026-0020 – 408 South King Street, Amendment to TLHPBR2024-0063: Approved. Changes include a sunroom screen enclosure system (demonstrated to be durable and screen-like), two new windows on the rear of the summer kitchen, and chimney reconstruction using closely matching brick (to be reviewed by staff). Vote: 6-0-1 (O’Neill recused as the architect). - 2026 JARB Nominations: The board discussed potential nominees for the Joint Architectural Review Board awards. The following projects were tentatively selected, subject to completion by August 1: 24 & 6 West Market Street (rehabilitation), 204 and 208 North King Street (rehabilitations), 102 South King Street (subject to resolving minor violations), Pike’s Peak Lemonade signage, The Cute Pig signage, and the Union Street School restoration. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved: 7-0. - Sunroom addition (213 W Market) deferred: 7-0. - Partial approval/denial (212 S King): 6-0-1. - Comprehensive sign plan (203 Harrison) approved: 7-0. - Window amendment (115 Maximillian) deferred: 7-0. - Addition at 7 Royal deferred: 5-0-2 (Brown and O’Neill recused). - Addition at 9 Royal deferred: 6-0-1 (Brown recused). - Amendment (408 S King) approved: 6-0-1 (O’Neill recused). - JARB nominations: Approved with completion deadline of August 1.

The Leesburg OPEB Trust Finance Board met on June 11, 2026, at 2:02 PM. The meeting was called to order by the chair. Present were Alexandra Gressad, Tamar Keesaker, Owen Snyder (town staff), Josh Didwick and Coleface and Baker (likely board members), and PFM representatives Alison Corbley and Jack Schnormis. The meeting adjourned at 2:52 PM. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes of the February 25, 2026 Finance Board meeting were approved unanimously by motion and second. Discussion Items - Investment Performance Review (Q1 2026): PFM presented the first-quarter 2026 investment report. Key economic context included the Iran conflict causing energy price shocks, a 3.8% headline CPI (highest since 2023), a 2% GDP rebound driven by AI capital spending and government spending, and a stable labor market. The equity markets experienced high volatility; the S&P 500 was up nearly 10% year-to-date by late May, but valuations were described as "getting a little bit rich." The portfolio returned -1% for the quarter, outperforming the blended benchmark of -1.6%. The portfolio value stood at approximately $22 million at quarter-end (March 31, 2026) and later rose to $23,757,252 as of the prior day (May 26, 2026). The estimated annual fee was 11 basis points. The Magnificent Seven stocks comprised roughly 28% of the total portfolio. PFM noted that the portfolio remained neutral-weighted in equities and fixed income, with a conservative stance in line with the investment policy. - Actuarial Report and Asset Allocation: The board reviewed the actuarial report, which uses a 6.5% discount rate. PFM’s strategist recommended no change to the current asset allocation but suggested that adding listed real assets (REITs and infrastructure) could slightly reduce portfolio risk (standard deviation moving from 9.9% to 9.8%) and improve diversification, including reducing Mag 7 exposure. The board discussed the possibility of increasing the discount rate to 7% or 7.5% based on portfolio performance (7-year return of 7.9%), which would lower the liability and required contributions. A sensitivity analysis indicated that moving to a 7.5% discount rate would reduce the liability by about 11%, bringing the funded ratio from 88% to approximately 97-98%. No decision was made on changing the discount rate. - Future Meeting Addition: The board discussed inviting a representative from Bolton (the actuary) to present and explain the actuarial report in detail at the next meeting. This would help the board make informed decisions on asset allocation. Key Outcomes - Motion Passed: A motion to invite an actuary from Bolton to the next board meeting to discuss the actuarial report was seconded and approved. It was acknowledged that there may be an associated cost, but the board supported the idea as a good investment. - No Further Action: The board took no action on changing the discount rate or asset allocation at this meeting. PFM’s recommendation to keep the current allocation (with a potential future addition of listed real assets) was noted for further discussion. - Meeting Adjourned: The meeting adjourned at 2:52 PM.

Note: The transcript indicates the meeting was held on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, but the user-provided date is Thursday, June 11, 2026 at 13:30 UTC. This summary uses the date supplied by the user. The Leesburg Diversity Commission held a regular meeting to discuss upcoming events, funding allocations, and community outreach. Commissioners reviewed plans for the October Domestic Violence Awareness Month event, debriefed the Pride flag raising, approved a donation to the Holidays with Cops program, selected a logo artist, and considered using remaining FY26 funds for printed materials. Visitors from LAWS (Loudoun Abused Women's Shelter) participated in the event planning discussion. Consent Calendar - The agenda and minutes from the May meeting were approved by motion. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the petitioners portion. Discussion Items - Commissioner Comments – Bablic Translation Funding: Commissioner Ed proposed reaching out to the Communications and Tech Commission to explore having the town fund website translation services (currently funded by the Diversity Commission). The commission expressed support for this outreach. - Story Time at the Airport: Commissioner Ed discussed the possibility of offering story time in non‑English languages or with drag queen readers at the Leesburg Airport; it was clarified that the story time is run by Loudoun County Public Library, not the airport commission. The commission agreed to contact the library to explore diversity options. - Guest Presentation – LAWS October Event (Domestic Violence Awareness Month): Sam and Diana from LAWS joined to begin planning the third annual event, proposed for October 9, 2026 (the first Friday of October being unavailable). Discussion included restructuring the ceremony to include a survivor speak‑out, incorporating music and performance art, and expanding resource vendors. The commission agreed to set up an informational meeting with the Performing Arts Commission and LAWS. - Pride Flag Raising Debrief: The commission debriefed the June 5 Pride flag raising event, noting good turnout and positive feedback, including the use of fans. Plans for next year include adding more resource vendors. - Donation to Holidays with Cops: The town council approved the commission’s request for a $550 donation from FY26 funds to the Holidays with Cops program. The motion passed 7–0. - Logo Artist Selection: The commission selected local artist Joe Dabney for the logo redesign after reviewing three proposals. The town will proceed with a notice of intent to award. - FY26 Remaining Funding and FY27 Planning: The commission reviewed its current budget (approximately $3,600, with anticipated expenses leaving about $1,700). Ideas included printing an informational tri‑fold about the commission. A potential special virtual meeting was discussed to approve a design before the end of the fiscal year (June 30). The chair will check the deadline for purchase order requisitions. - Proclamation for Disability Pride Month: A proclamation for Disability Pride Month (mid‑July) has been filed, and the commission plans to invite Linda and Aaron (founders of A Place to Be) to receive it. Key Outcomes - Motion passed: The commission approved reaching out to the Communications and Tech Commission to explore town funding for website translation services. - Planning for October 9 event: The date is set pending confirmation from the town events manager. An informational meeting with the Performing Arts Commission and LAWS will be arranged. - Donation approved: The town council approved the $550 donation to Holidays with Cops. The commission will follow up on the budget transfer. - Logo artist selected: Joe Dabney will be awarded the contract for the new logo. - Special meeting considered: A virtual special meeting may be scheduled around June 23–24 to approve a commission brochure design, if feasible within the purchasing deadline. - Meeting adjourned after all agenda items were covered.

The Thomas Balch Library Commission met on June 11, 2026, to review the director's report, discuss ongoing projects related to the 250th anniversary, and address new business including the 2026 Loudoun History Awards and the library's draft mission statement. Consent Calendar - The minutes of the May 13, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously. Discussion Items - Director's Report: Director reported that May was less busy than anticipated but still active. Highlights included a new exhibit by intern Andrew on the "Rokeb" (related to the 250th anniversary), a walking tour by Jim Roberts, a First Friday at the Cabin focusing on doctors, a talk by David Truonk about his family's escape from Vietnam, and a presentation by the intern on the Goose Creek Preservation Collection. The library participated in the town's Public Works Open House, hosted student groups, and had many out-of-state visitors. A new collection was received from the Cook family (Rock Spring property). An exciting, unannounced donation was noted – an 18th-century document found in a 20th-century envelope, possibly overlooked by the donor, which is very timely for the 250th. The building is being assessed for preservation issues; roof repairs were completed. The library is preparing for July events, including an exhibit on past celebrations, a new exhibit at the cabin, and the launch of a Revolutionary War walking tour app. - Friends of the Library: The Friends group postponed their annual fundraiser from June to November, potentially as a gala celebrating downtown Leesburg history. The new chair, Casey Young, has been proactive but busy with her dissertation and family. The board has new active members (Gertrude Evans, Denise Motor). They are seeking more members. The Friends have made annual contributions to the foundation endowment (approximately $14,000 last year). - Foundation: Received a donation of over $12,000 from a donor who enjoyed researching family history at the library. Awaiting the estate of Liz Monroe. The foundation paid taxes and filed tax returns. - Old Business: - St. James Cemetery: Ground-penetrating radar revealed nearly 400 graves, fewer than 100 with headstones. The St. James Cemetery Committee will present to the town council in July, possibly requesting additional funding. $10,000 remains from the initial budget for landscaping. - Oak Hill Preservation: Discussion on data center tax exemption controversy. Governor Spanberger and the House Speaker want to eliminate the exemption, claiming it cost the state $600 million in foregone taxes over two years while data centers bought $33 billion in equipment. The state predicts $1.5 billion in additional revenue over the next two years. - Library 250 Events & Programming: For July 4th, the library will join colleagues at the courthouse to display documents, including George Washington signatures. There will be reenactors, the museum, and walking tours. Other programs include a "Revolution on Film" series, oral history project (first online with permissions), and a Journal publication that has been delayed but will have lasting scholarship. - New Business: - 2026 Loudoun History Awards: Discussion on nominations and process. Usually two awards given, but special recognition may be considered for the 250th. Potential nominees include Alicia Conan and Gertrude Evans for their work on Black Patriots and Loyalists exhibits, and retiring officials such as Eric Larson (historic records manager). The call for nominations will go out in August, deadline in early October, with the awards ceremony on the first Sunday in November. - Library Mission Statement: Staff presented a draft mission statement that is more descriptive than current. Commissioners suggested breaking it into separate mission, vision, and values statements for clarity and memorability. The staff will revise based on feedback and then present to the town council. Key Outcomes - The May 13, 2026 meeting minutes were approved unanimously. - The commission recommended that the library mission statement be restructured into separate mission, vision, and values statements. - The 2026 Loudoun History Awards timeline was set: call for nominations in August, deadline in early October, awards ceremony on the first Sunday in November. Potential special recognition for the 250th anniversary will be discussed further. - No other formal votes were taken.

On June 9, 2026, the Town of Leesburg hosted an Engineering Summit panel discussion featuring town staff and private-sector experts. The panel aimed to identify challenges in the project approval process, share best practices, and explore ways to improve efficiency, predictability, and collaboration. Panelists included Pete Lazarevich (Gordon Engineering), Amy White (Utilities Director), Renee LaColette (Director of Public Works and Capital Projects), Bill Ackman (Deputy Director, Chief Engineer), and Don Knudson (President, Knudson Companies). The discussion was facilitated by an unnamed moderator. Discussion Items - Challenges in Project Approvals: Pete Lazarevich cited a lack of predictability in the process, noting that written rules are sometimes interpreted inconsistently. Don Knudson emphasized that projects take too long and called for metrics (e.g., an eight-month target for site plan approval) and a second annual summit to measure progress. A show of hands from the audience confirmed many shared these concerns. - Common Errors and Mistakes: Amy White highlighted that developers often fail to contact utilities early about public facilities permits, availability fees, and test pits. Renee LaColette noted delays caused by requests to change standard bonding forms and incomplete punch lists. Bill Ackman identified recurring issues: inconsistent handicap ramp designs, mismatched data across plan sheets (e.g., pipe sizes), and landscape plans that ignore underlying utilities and easements. - Balancing Code Compliance vs. Preference‑Based Comments: Pete Lazarevich suggested that design recommendations be clearly marked as such and discussed early. Don Knudson proposed memorializing preferred design approaches through memoranda or education sessions. Panelists from the town explained that some “preferential” comments stem from maintainability concerns (e.g., deep storm sewer access) and could be formalized. - Tips for a Smoother Process: Bill Ackman advised designers to trace all changes through every plan sheet and to call staff with questions, especially at decision points. Pete Lazarevich stressed coming to the process solution‑oriented and maintaining open communication. Panelists emphasized that early, collaborative discussions reduce later surprises. - Audience Questions: An audience member (Kevin) asked whether other agencies’ comments (e.g., tap‑fee details) could be provided earlier to avoid late surprises. Another attendee inquired about the best timing to discuss Design and Construction Standards Manual (DCSM) modifications; Bill Ackman responded that the earlier the better, and staff can provide informal “head nods” on draft modifications. A third question raised the possibility of receiving individual reviewer comments as they are completed rather than waiting for a consolidated comment letter; the panel noted that while consolidated letters prevent conflicts, they are open to releasing preliminary comments with disclaimers. Key Outcomes - Panelists and audience agreed that early communication, clear expectations, and proactive coordination among all agencies can reduce review cycles. - The town committed to exploring ways to release individual reviewer comments earlier (on request) and to memorialize commonly‑granted modifications in the DCSM update. - Don Knudson recommended a resource assessment to ensure the town has adequate staff to meet review timelines, especially given state mandates. - The moderator and panelists expressed interest in holding a second annual Engineering Summit to track metrics and continue improvements.

The Leesburg Town Council met on June 9, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber. The meeting included a proclamation for LGBTQ+ Pride Month, approval of a consent agenda with 11 items, passage of two resolutions (sanitary sewer reimbursement and utility assistance program renewal), and discussion of community concerns including e-bike safety, a Little Free Art Library incident, and a request to explore prohibiting ICE raids on town property. Consent Calendar - Amending the Town Council Meeting Schedule for Calendar Year 2026 - Town Hall Art Exhibit featuring Paintings by Steve Loya - Airport Art Exhibit featuring Photographs by Terri Parent - Budget Amendments for Fiscal Year 2026 - Budget Amendment for Fiscal Year 2027 - Virginia Department of Transportation SMART Scale Application Endorsements - Fiscal Year 2025 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant - Roof Replacements at Leesburg Executive Airport - Awarding a Contract for Facilities Conditions Assessments - Award of Contract for Granicus Software Services - License Agreement with Zayo Infrastructure Holdco, LLC - Donation Proposal from the Diversity Commission to Support the Holidays with the Cops Program (moved from Resolutions section per Mayor's suggestion) All items were approved unanimously (7-0). Public Comments & Testimony No members of the public signed up to speak or indicated a desire to address the council. Discussion Items - LGBTQ+ Pride Month Proclamation: Mayor presented a proclamation designating June 2026 as LGBTQ+ Pride Month in Leesburg. Vice-Mayor Cimino-Johnson moved approval; passed 7-0. Leigh Guarinello of Equality Loudoun accepted, noting upcoming events: a crosswalk refresh and the opening of a community center at the Village at Leesburg. - Sanitary Sewer Reimbursement for Crescent Sycolin Project: Staff presented a resolution to authorize the town manager to execute a reimbursement agreement with Big T Properties LLC for approximately $169,000 to reroute a sanitary sewer line for a proposed 69-unit multifamily development with 7,600 sq. ft. of retail. The existing clay sewer (1958) is under the proposed building. The agreement includes a change order provision for potential rock excavation. Council Member Steinberg moved approval; passed 7-0. - Leesburg Customer Assistance Program (LCAP) Grant Agreement Renewal: Staff proposed renewing the LCAP agreement with Loudoun CARES for FY2027, raising household income eligibility from 50% AMI to 80% AMI and extending the disbursement timeframe from 2 to 5 days. Staff recommended against expanding eligibility to out-of-town utility customers because they do not contribute to the general fund. Council Member Krukowski expressed concern that the higher income threshold might deplete funds too quickly. After discussion, the motion to approve passed 7-0. - Council Disclosures and Comments: - Council Member Cummings asked about vandalism at the Little Free Art Library at Raflo Park. Town Manager clarified that items were taken but no damage occurred, so it was not vandalism; staff is monitoring but has no plans to install cameras due to privacy concerns and higher-priority assets. - Council Member Krukowski reported a near-accident with a child on an e-bike without lights, urging parents to discuss e-bike safety and noting staff provided information on lighting requirements. - Mayor asked for four council members to support directing the town attorney to explore whether the town can prohibit ICE raids on town property, similar to a new state regulation and a county consideration. The request was noted for future action. - Mayor listed multiple community engagements: employee luncheon, welcoming new businesses (Falcon and Figs, Hen and Hair children's boutique, Babylon instant oil change, Back Nine indoor golf, Phoenix Theater), Morgan Park sidewalk ribbon cutting, Juneteenth flag raising, career day at Evergreen Mill Elementary, mayor-for-a-day with a student from Leesburg Elementary, Legacy Farm open house, and the painted plows contest (Leesburg Elementary won). - Town Manager Comments: Announced that parking garage maintenance to address traction issues on upper floors will resume next week, likely lasting one to two weeks. Also reported that pedestrian safety improvements are being implemented, including leading pedestrian intervals (LPI) at traffic signals downtown and on key corridors (Catoctin, Fort Evans, Plaza Street) to give pedestrians a head start before vehicle green lights. Key Outcomes - Proclamation for LGBTQ+ Pride Month passed 7-0. - Consent agenda (11 items) passed 7-0. - Resolution authorizing sanitary sewer reimbursement agreement for Crescent Sycolin project passed 7-0. - Resolution approving renewal of the LCAP grant agreement with Loudoun CARES for FY2027 passed 7-0. - Town Manager directed to continue monitoring the Little Free Art Library and work with police; no cameras at this time. - Council to consider directing the town attorney to research options for prohibiting ICE raids on town property (four council members expressed interest). - Pedestrian signal timing improvements (leading pedestrian intervals) are being expanded across downtown and major roads. - Parking garage maintenance will resume the week of June 15, likely causing temporary disruptions.

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