Public Meetings - Loudoun County, Virginia

January 7, 2026 | 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM | Dulles Room The Zoning Ordinance Committee (ZOC) convened to review the agenda, hear public comment, approve the November 2025 action report, and receive status updates on several proposed ordinance amendments. Key discussions centered on floodplain fencing limitations, proposed language for accessory structures in floodplains, and timelines for data center and rural use standards updates. Consent Calendar - Approval of Action Report (November 5, 2025): Approved with minor corrections (typo in disclosures for Dale P., meeting attendance updates for Bill Junda and Beth, and name correction for Harriet Wegmire). Motion carried without opposition. Public Comments & Testimony - Denise Rowell (Loudoun County resident, business owner, former RADC participant) expressed concern that zoning changes may be ineffective without addressing enforcement. She noted loopholes, the need for planned growth, and confusion between county and state responsibilities (e.g., limited breweries). Urged the committee to consider how rules will be enforced post-adoption. Discussion Items - Floodplain Ordinance - Fencing Issue: Staff clarified that agricultural fencing is currently allowed under the accessory structure definition (up to 600 sq ft of post footprint). Bill Junda and Bill Hatch highlighted practical challenges: large farms (e.g., 500+ acres) with extensive floodplain may require far more fence posts (e.g., 2,400 posts for 24,000 linear feet). The 600 sq ft limit (FEMA-based) may be insufficient. The committee agreed to hold an off-line meeting with farmers and the Soil & Water Conservation District to better understand the issue. - Accessory Structures in Floodplain (Proposed Draft Language): Staff presented language allowing gardens, play areas, playhouses, and dog houses up to 255 sq ft (under building permit threshold) for existing single-family dwellings. Staff did not recommend adoption, citing: (1) residential uses are currently not permitted in floodplain; (2) inconsistency with Resource Protection Area (Riparian Buffer – RISKER) rules; (3) requiring a no-rise certification and zoning permit would create new regulatory burdens for homeowners. After debate on whether the problem is well-defined, the committee voted 8-? to move forward with amendments: define "existing" (tied to date of floodplain ordinance adoption), define terms like "garden," "playhouse," etc., and strike 5 (a placement restriction near the patio). This language will be incorporated into the broader floodplain ordinance update for future ZOC review. - Data Center Standards & Locations, Phase 2: Project managers reported staff is not ready for February ZOC. Consultant white papers on policy guidance and zoning standards for data centers and utility substations are in progress. New estimate: spring 2026 (March–April), likely later. - ZOAM-2025-0001 – Zoning Ordinance Rewrite Adjustments 1: Project on track for June 2026 BOS presentation. Matrix unchanged; no new items added. ZOC will review draft text prior to BOS. - Western Loudoun/Rural Uses and Standards (WLRUS): Timeline extended six months to December 2027 due to need for full Board of Supervisors action on TLUC recommendations before staff drafts text. ZOC review anticipated June–December 2026. TLUC direction meetings scheduled for January 22 and January 27, 2026 (first covers general direction; second focuses on ABC uses: wineries, breweries, B&Bs, events). Key Outcomes - Floodplain Fencing: Off-line meeting with farmers and Soil & Water Conservation District to be coordinated before next ZOC meeting. - Accessory Structures Language: Approved (8 in favor) to direct staff to incorporate the proposed language (with amendments: define existing, define terms, strike condition 5) into the broader floodplain ordinance update for future ZOC recommendation. - Future Meetings: February 4, 2026 meeting likely cancelled due to lack of agenda items. Potential March 2026 focus on fencing concerns. - Upcoming Meetings: February 4, 2026 (tentative), March 2026 (if needed).

The Loudoun County Board of Supervisors held its January 6, 2026, business meeting, primarily focused on organizational matters for the new year, adoption of the consent agenda, and key financial guidance for FY2027. The board adopted the consent agenda, elected Vice Chair, made standing committee and regional appointments, and approved the meeting schedule for 2026. Significant discussion centered on the FY2027 budget guidance, including tax rates and revenue allocation, a motion to fund the design of the historic Goose Creek Bridge, and a position on Dominion Energy’s net metering proposal. Consent Calendar - Approved items included: Loudoun County Board of Equalization 2025 Annual Report; Disability Services Board Bylaws Amendment; Fiscal Impact Committee 2025 Annual Report and Bylaws Amendment; Utilization of Federal and State Asset Forfeiture Funds by the Sheriff’s Office; Shellhorn Road (formerly Sterling Boulevard) Extension Additional Funding Request; Appointments and Confirmations (Item 2a); Administrative Items Report of January 6, 2026; and a Board Member Initiative to create a Data Center Informational Fact Sheet (Item 5). All consent items passed unanimously (8-0-1 with Supervisor Saines absent). Discussion Items Organizational Matters - Rules of Order: The board adopted the 2026 Rules of Order with two adjustments: public commenters will be called for agenda-related items first, and comment time reduced from 2.5 to 2 minutes. A proposed amendment by Supervisor Crony to transfer jurisdiction over project scope, strategy, design endorsement, and work plans for multimodal transportation projects from the Finance/Government Operations/Economic Development Committee (FGOEDC) to the Transportation/Land Use Committee (TLUC) was discussed at length. After concerns about splitting jurisdiction and implementation issues raised by County Administrator Hemstreet and others, Supervisor Crony withdrew the motion. The Rules of Order were then adopted (8-0-1). - Election of Vice Chair: Chair Randall nominated Supervisor Mike Turner for a second term as Vice Chair. He was elected 7-1-1 (Turner abstained, Saines absent). - Standing Committee Assignments: Approved as presented; no changes from 2025. Supervisor Briskman remains Finance Chair; Supervisor Crony remains TLUC Chair. (8-0-1) - Regional and County Committee Assignments: Approved as presented, with two corrections: Dulles Town Center Authority disbanded (no appointment needed); BEP/LOSAP assignment corrected from former board member to Supervisor Briskman. (8-0-1) - Schedule Adjustments for 2026 and January 2027: Approved with adjustments for holidays; second meetings in November and December only if necessary. (8-0-1) Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Guidance - Supervisor Briskman, as Finance Chair, moved the FY2027 budget guidance: remove cigarette tax from general revenue and dedicate to housing fund for down payment/closing cost assistance; real property tax rate of $0.805 per $100 assessed value; general personal property tax rate of $4.15; vehicle personal property tax rate of $3.09; a 9% growth rate for the county operating budget and 8% for Loudoun County Public Schools; with additional local tax funding (excess over growth rate) allocated 80% to capital improvement program (CIP) and 20% to housing fund. - Supervisor Crony offered a friendly amendment to add “with options to decrease the rate to $3.00 for tax year 2027” to the vehicle tax rate language. The amendment was accepted by the motion maker and seconder, becoming part of the base motion. - Debate included Supervisor Kirshner stating that average homeowner real property taxes have increased by $1,080 annually over the past five years, arguing for lower rates. Supervisor Briskman countered that Loudoun has lowered real property tax rates by 24 cents since she took office, and excess data center revenue is being used effectively for CIP and housing. - The motion as amended passed 6-1 (Chair Randall off dais; one opposed, likely Supervisor Laterno who expressed preference for starting at a lower real property tax rate). Future Years’ Excess Revenue Allocation - Supervisor Briskman moved to direct the county administrator to prepare the next three proposed budgets with the same 80/20 split (80% to CIP, 20% to housing) for any excess local tax funding over the growth rate. After debate about committing to multi-year guidance and the desire to possibly use excess for tax relief, the motion failed 4-4. Goose Creek Bridge Design Funding - Supervisor Crony moved to reduce the federal impacts contingency line item by $750,000 and create a new line item for Goose Creek Bridge Design. The bridge is a historic stone arch bridge (built c. 1800) on NOVA Parks property. The $750,000 would cover design for a stabilization/restoration estimated at $4.5–$6.5 million; construction would be considered in a future CIP. Supervisor Laterno and Supervisor Umstead opposed, citing uncertainty about federal contingency needs and lack of vetting. The motion passed 7-2 (Laterno and Umstead opposed). Net Metering Position Statement - Supervisor Briskman moved to endorse the Environmental Commission’s recommendation as the county’s position statement for the Dominion Energy SCC hearing on January 20, 2026, regarding its net metering program revisions. The motion also authorized the county administrator to appoint a staff witness. After debate, the motion passed 7-1-1 (one opposed, one abstention). Appointments (Nominations) - Numerous appointments were made: Michael Huber (at-large, Route 28 landowners advisory board), Eileen Shaffer (at-large, Disability Services Board), James Bonfield (at-large, Loudoun Water Board), and others. Approved. Board Comments & Regional Updates - Supervisor Briskman noted her chief of staff’s departure to George Mason University and shared gun violence statistics: 38,745 total gun deaths in 2025 (down from 41,000 in 2024), 408 mass shootings in 2025 (down from 504), and already 166 gun deaths and 7 mass shootings in January 2026. - Supervisor Glass reported strong community opposition to disc golf at West Park Golf Course during a meeting with Leesburg residents. - Supervisor Kirshner attended the funeral of Donald E. Walker Sr., a longtime community figure. - County Administrator Hemstreet summarized attainable housing accomplishments: $27.5 million local funding for housing in FY2026, $3 million proposed for down payment assistance, over 1,100 units in development, tripled number of partners since 2022, and 560 units delivered since 2022. - Vice Chair Turner warned about potential threats to democracy in 2026 and emphasized the importance of local government as the front line of American democracy. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously (8-0-1). - Organizational Matters: Vice Chair, committee assignments, regional appointments, schedule, and Rules of Order all approved with varying votes. - FY2027 Budget Guidance: Approved 6-1; includes vehicle tax rate option down to $3.00. - Goose Creek Bridge Design: Approved 7-2. - Net Metering Position: Approved 7-1-1. - Multi-Year 80/20 Allocation: Failed 4-4. - Staff directed to prepare FY2027 budget based on adopted guidance. The meeting adjourned after board comments.

The Loudoun County Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) convened on Thursday, December 19, 2025, at 6:00 PM. The board considered one public hearing item: the Village of Clear Springs Sign Development Plan (LEGI 2025-0002 / ZMOD 2025-0001), and also received administrative reports. The meeting was conducted in person and via remote participation. Preliminary Matters - The board accepted a corrected table (slip page) for the sign development plan, which clarified the sign area calculation (combining primary and partner sign square footages into one line) and corrected the total number of signs from four to two. The motion to accept the correction passed unanimously. Discussion Items - Village of Clear Springs Sign Development Plan – Staff (David Moore, Senior Planner) presented the application for a 33.04-acre property zoned PDH-6, located on Evergreen Mills Road, approved for a USTA Mid-Atlantic Tennis Center and 1,077 residential units. The applicant sought deviations from the zoning ordinance: increase individual sign area from 120 to 326.2 square feet, overall sign area from 240 to 652.4 square feet, and maximum height from 5 to 10.5 feet (primary signs) and 8 feet (secondary signs). Staff recommended approval subject to conditions. - Applicant Adam Steiner (J2) presented the design, noting the signs provide wayfinding and placemaking, and that the total sign area is still less than allowed by-right. He emphasized the signage is appropriately scaled for the four entrances along Evergreen Mills Road, with low-level LED lighting to minimize night sky impacts. The applicant stated the signs are part of a cohesive package for the community. - Board members questioned Mr. Moore and Mr. Steiner about the sign calculations, wayfinding, and design compatibility. Mr. Canonico raised concern that one entrance (a cul-de-sac) might confuse visitors, but the applicant explained the sign is for placemaking and identity. The board reviewed the seven statutory criteria for approval; the applicant testified that each criterion is satisfied, and staff confirmed no inconsistency. - Public comment: A resident named Angwin asked about the sign size, lighting, road widening, and whether the signage would be built early. The applicant and staff responded that the signs are designed for the ultimate four-lane road, will be set back from the right-of-way, and will be installed early in construction to establish community identity. Key Outcomes - Motion to Approve: The board voted unanimously to approve LEGI 2025-0002 / ZMOD 2025-0001, subject to the conditions of approval dated December 1, 2025, and based on the findings for approval in attachments 4 and 5 of the December 18, 2025 staff report. No opposition or abstentions were recorded. - County Attorney’s Report: Hugh Green reported that litigation regarding group homes appeals has concluded. The Supreme Court of Virginia denied a petition for appeal, and two related circuit court cases were dismissed with prejudice. The board also discussed a pending appeal of a denied permit for an RNG baseball facility; the chair expressed concern that the operation continues despite the denial, but the county attorney noted the matter is under appeal and staff is monitoring compliance. - Zoning Administrator’s Report: Bradley Polk announced the next BZA meeting is scheduled for January 22, 2026, with one appeal of a notice of violation on the agenda.

The Loudoun County Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) met on December 19, 2025, in the Dulles Room of the Government Center. One member, Mr. Kramer, participated remotely from Round Hill, Virginia, because his spouse was having surgery; a physical quorum was present. The agenda listed no public hearing items, so the meeting was devoted to administrative reports and a detailed staff briefing on the county's rewritten online zoning ordinance. The board adjourned without taking action on any application. Note on date discrepancy: The agenda in the meeting packet lists this meeting as Thursday, November 20, 2025, and the transcript refers to 'December 18' as the next meeting. These conflict with the supplied meeting date of December 19, 2025; this summary uses the supplied date. Preliminary Matters - Remote participation: Mr. Kramer's request was accepted under Virginia Code Section 2.2-3708.2 and the BZA participation policy. The board recorded the reason, surgery of his spouse, and his remote location, Round Hill, Virginia. - Assistant County Attorney report: None was given; the attorney indicated an item may be reported next month. - Zoning Administrator report: Upcoming BZA hearings were listed as December 18, 2025, and January 22, 2026; the January agenda includes an appeal of a notice of violation and a possible signed development plan, and the January meeting will start at 5:00 p.m. These scheduling references conflict with the supplied meeting date. Public Comments & Testimony - No public hearing items were on the agenda, and no public comments were presented. Discussion Items: New Online Zoning Ordinance - Chapter-by-chapter overview: The Zoning Administrator explained that the revised ordinance, adopted December 13, 2023, is organized differently from the previous code. The official zoning map is now online only. All zoning districts are consolidated into one chapter, grouped by urban, suburban, transition, and rural categories, including legacy districts that cannot be remapped. - New districts and PUDs: New residential districts, such as suburban neighborhood and suburban compact neighborhood, replace older categories such as R8 and R16. A new planned unit development district is the most flexible district and allows applicants to create their own district for innovative proposals. PUDs are geographically limited to urban and suburban policy areas, limited in the transition policy area, and only within the Leesburg area of the JLMA. They require planning commission recommendation and Board of Supervisors approval. The Dulles Town Center revitalization was cited as an example under review. - Use tables and definitions: Uses are now shown in centralized tables with markers such as P, S, P/S, or P/M/S; use-specific standards determine when a special exception is required. Staff consolidated similar uses, such as wholesale, distribution, and warehousing, and added uses such as freestanding dog parks. Definitions are in Chapter 12. - Adaptive reuse: The ordinance includes limited adaptive reuse provisions aimed at historic structures, with criteria such as age, registration, and conservation overlay. It is not designed for large commercial-to-residential conversions; those would require rezoning or a planned unit development. - Data centers: Staff said the current ordinance has no adaptive-reuse or decommissioning standards for data centers. The Board of Supervisors is in phase two of a data center zoning amendment covering distances, noise, electricity, and water use; phase one made data centers a special exception in all districts. A board member expressed concern that data centers may become obsolete and urged that future reuse be considered at the time of approval. - Overlay districts: Existing overlay districts remain, but a floodplain zoning ordinance amendment is proposed to move floodplain regulations from Chapter 5 to Chapter 6 so boundary updates can be made without separate board action. The mountainside overlay was renamed, a ridgeline feature was added, and spring protection was expanded from 100 feet to 300 feet. - Environmental and parking standards: Staff noted new river and stream corridor resources; Loudoun's floodplain map was last comprehensively remapped in 2017. Development standards now include parking minimums and maximums, with garage spaces counted as half a parking space. New requirements cover bicycle parking, electric vehicle parking, compact walkable communities, and parking placement. Sign regulations are content-neutral, sign measurement includes the whole structure, and standalone comprehensive sign plans come to the BZA. - Attainable housing: Requirements for affordable and attainable housing were extended beyond rezoning approvals to some by-right residential developments, generally those with more than 24 dwelling units. - Procedures and implementation: Chapter 10 covers permits and roles; Chapter 12 contains definitions; appendices include an acronym table, land development fees, and flexible regulations. Staff described implementation as good and bad, with a cleanup package planned for summer or fall and a commitment to periodic reviews. A board member praised the new format as a significant improvement. - Timelines and process improvements: A board member raised concern that applicants can wait nine months or longer for decisions after investing significant sums. Staff noted a current county-industry effort to improve the review process, based on a consultant's 60 recommendations. - Western Loudoun and rural policy area: A separate effort for the rural policy area, including AR1 and AR2 districts, is underway, with stakeholder meetings continuing and a target of late 2026 or early 2027. Public sewer is generally not available in rural areas outside towns and JLMA districts. Key Outcomes - No applications were heard and no substantive motions were considered; the only vote was to adjourn, which was seconded and passed by voice vote. - Remote participation was accepted for Mr. Kramer, with reasons and location to be recorded in the minutes. - Staff reports were received; no board decision items were scheduled. - Next steps: BZA hearings were stated as December 18, 2025, and January 22, 2026, with the January meeting at 5:00 p.m., and staff plan to bring zoning ordinance cleanup items to the Board of Supervisors in summer or fall.

Opening and Consent Calendar The Loudoun County Planning Commission held a public hearing on December 18, 2025, at 11:00 AM (subject to adjournment by 12:00 AM). The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance and disclosures from commissioners regarding meetings and site visits related to agenda items. The minutes from the November 20, 2025 public hearing were approved by a vote of 8-0-1 (Chair abstained). Public Comments & Testimony - Item 1 (Rockland Farm AFD withdrawal): No public comment. - Item 2 (NOVEC-Deimos Substation): Emily Johnson, representing the Piedmont Environmental Council, spoke in opposition, stating the substation's character and extent are misaligned with residential neighbors and that better screening or a gas-insulated substation (GIS) should be considered. - Item 3 (Happy Paws K-9): Over 30 speakers provided testimony. Supporters (primarily clients) praised the business for exceptional care, flexibility for first responders, and positive impact on their dogs. Opponents (neighbors) cited noise, traffic, odor, and health risks from pathogens; traffic studies were disputed, and a neighborhood petition (55% of residents opposed) was referenced. Specific allegations included 20 citations issued by the sheriff over three days related to Happy Paws customers, and concerns about wastewater and setback reductions. Discussion Items Item 1: ALEGI-2025-0012 – Request for Early Withdrawal from New Rockland Agricultural and Forestal District (514.88 acres by Rockland Farm LLC) - Staff presented that the withdrawal is for a conservation easement with Old Dominion Land Conservancy. One issue: potential termination of the AFD if the remaining 200-acre core is lost, but the next review is not until 2029. The Agricultural District Advisory Committee and staff recommend approval. - Commissioners asked about the terms of the conservation easement and the number of allowable homes. The applicant stated the easement would follow typical standards (e.g., one home per 100 acres) and the Whites Ferry landing parcel would be excluded to preserve ferry potential. Commissioners expressed support for permanent protection. Item 2: LEGI-2024-0059 – NOVEC-Deimos Substation (CMPT-2024-0010) - Staff identified outstanding issues with visual screening of the 35-foot substation equipment, located less than 250 feet from residential and commercial uses across Arcola Mills Drive. A 12-foot screen wall and enhanced planting are proposed, but staff recommended increasing the wall height (e.g., to 17 feet) or adding berming. The applicant is willing to discuss alternatives, including raising the wall to 15 feet and attending a work session. - Commissioners questioned the adequacy of screening, possibility of a GIS substation, and connection of sidewalks. No community opposition was noted. The commission voted to forward the item to a future work session (9-0). Item 3: LEGI-2024-0012 – Happy Paws K-9 (SPEX-2024-0021 and SPEX-2024-0024) - Staff recommended reduction in the number of dogs (currently proposed at 30, down from 35) and increased setbacks. The property is 3 acres in AR1 zone; the kennel operates in the home with outdoor play area. Staff noted 110 public comments (89 clients, 21 neighbors – 14 opposed, 7 in support). A previous similar kennel (Howl of a Good Time) was approved in 2012 with zero-foot setback but closed in 2017. - Applicant presented operations: maximum 30 dogs exclusive of personal pets, 15 dogs outside at a time, limited outdoor hours (8-12 and 3-6), constant supervision, and conditions to waive ownership transfer. They committed to a work session to address intensity and setbacks. - Commissioners debated scale: some favored denial (citing incompatibility and traffic/environmental concerns), while others supported a work session to gather data (e.g., health department input, animal control records, drain field capacity, and comparison with other jurisdictions). A motion to deny failed; a substitute motion to forward to work session passed 9-0. Key Outcomes - Item 1: Approved unanimously (9-0) to recommend that the Board of Supervisors approve the early withdrawal for good and reasonable cause, facilitating a conservation easement. - Item 2: Forwarded to a future work session (9-0) to discuss additional screening measures (wall height, berming, potential GIS substation). - Item 3: Forwarded to a future work session (9-0) to address scale (number of dogs), setback modifications, and operational standards. Commissioners emphasized the need for data-driven decisions and noted the precedent-setting nature of this land-use decision. Administrative Items The next work session (January 8, 2026) will focus on officer elections and meeting schedule approval; no legislative items are scheduled.

The Facility Standards Manual Public Review Committee (FSM PRC) met on December 4, 2025, to discuss the floodplain work group update, the EnCode and LSDO integration project, 10-year private road reserve fund letters, and gated community standards. Peyton Stone participated remotely from Frederick, Maryland due to a personal matter. The meeting was chaired with a quorum present in the Dulles Room. The committee approved the November 6, 2025 meeting minutes. Consent Calendar - The November 6, 2025 meeting minutes were approved by unanimous consent. Discussion Items - Floodplain Work Group Update: Melanie reported that the work group met on November 12 and 19, with additional meetings scheduled for December 10 and 17. Phil echoed that the discussions have been productive, with a focus on forthcoming language revisions. A full report-out is planned for the January 15, 2026 meeting. - EnCode FSM and LSDO Integration: Staff presented plans to move the FSM and LSDO into the EnCode platform, similar to Chesterfield County's layout with tiles and internal linking. Jason noted discrepancies between the LSDO version on the codified ordinances and the B&D website; staff confirmed they have aligned the versions and will link to the LSDO in EnCode rather than duplicating it. The committee discussed potential add-on tools (e.g., calculators, land-use lookup) that cost between $2,750 and $5,500 to create with annual maintenance. Committee members expressed skepticism about the utility of these tools for the FSM, noting that the search function and internal links would be more beneficial. Staff will solicit further input via email before proceeding. - 10-Year Private Road Reserve Fund Letters: The committee reviewed drafts of three letters (HOA, non-HOA, commercial) meant to satisfy zoning ordinance requirements for a 10-year reserve fund study. Jason provided extensive edits. For the HOA letter, members debated the handling of the declarant control period and annexation scenarios; they agreed to allow bracketed optional text. For the non-HOA letter, Jason corrected the timing to require recordation contemporaneously with the initial record plat. For the commercial letter, members concluded that a single template is impractical due to varying ownership structures (leases, multiple owners, associations). Staff will send revised drafts for further comment and aim to finalize by the next meeting on December 18, 2025. - Gated Communities: Laura presented findings from other jurisdictions (Prince William, Arlington, Fort Myers, Texas) regarding queuing and design standards for gated entrances. Committee members discussed the example of Montebello Farms, where mechanical gate failures caused backups. Key design considerations included bypass lanes, signage, turnarounds, and the location of guest keypads (typically on the left for manned booths). No consensus was reached on whether to adopt specific standards; the committee will continue discussion at a future meeting, with a focus on fail-safe measures rather than prescriptive queue lengths. Key Outcomes - Approved the November 6, 2025 meeting minutes unanimously. - Directed staff to proceed with EnCode integration without additional paid tools unless committee members express preference via email. - Staff will revise the 10-year private road reserve fund letters based on committee feedback and submit for final review by the December 18, 2025 meeting. - Gated communities discussion will continue; committee members are to review provided materials and come prepared for further deliberation. - The next PRC meeting is scheduled for December 18, 2025 (tentatively virtual) and January 15, 2026.

The Board of Supervisors held an abbreviated end-of-year business meeting on December 16, 2025, at 10:45 AM. The meeting focused on adopting the consent agenda, receiving ceremonial updates, and entering closed session for personnel and legal matters. No public comments were taken, as is customary for the last meeting of the year. Consent Calendar - Contract Award – Construction of Sterling Boulevard Washington & Old Dominion Trail Overpass (Sterling): Approved unanimously (9-0). Supervisor Saints noted he has been working on this project since 2016. - Contract Award – Automatic External Defibrillator and Accessories (Countywide): Approved unanimously (9-0). Chair’s Organization Updates and Voice for a Cause - Chair Randall provided updates on her participation in a leadership grade at Children's Hospital in Washington, D.C., focusing on adolescent mental health concerns linked to social media. - She attended the unveiling of the Barbara Rose Johns statue in Statuary Hall at the U.S. Capitol, replacing the Robert E. Lee statue. - She noted the meeting’s abbreviated format and reminded that the first meeting of January 2026 will also be an organizational meeting without public comments. Administrator’s Comments - County Administrator Tim Hemstreet offered holiday safety tips: keep live Christmas trees well-watered and at least three feet from heat sources; promote local shopping via "Take Loudoun Home" initiative; announced a free pet adoption event on December 20–21; and reminded of the Loudoun County Public Library short story contest with a February 15 submission deadline. Board Comments, Regional Updates, and Disclosures - Supervisors shared disclosures regarding meetings with applicants for various projects (e.g., Digital Realty, National Conference Center, Dulles Landing South, etc.). - Multiple supervisors expressed gratitude for cross-party collaboration, highlighted holiday events (e.g., Hanukkah menorah lighting, Christmas tree lighting at One Loudoun), and reflected on recent tragedies including the Bondi Beach shooting. Supervisor Briskman noted a decline in gun violence deaths (from 16,000 to 14,000) and mass shootings (from 524 to 393) in 2025. - Supervisors wished each other a happy holiday season and emphasized maintaining respectful discourse. Closed Session - The Board recessed into closed session under Section 2.2-3711(A)(8) of the Code of Virginia to consult with legal counsel regarding grant acceptance, and under Section 2.2-3711(A)(1) for annual performance reviews of the County Administrator and County Attorney. - Upon reconvening, the Board certified that no formal action was taken in closed session, and the certification resolution was approved 9-0. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved 9-0 (two contract awards). - Closed session held for personnel and legal consultations; no formal action taken. - Meeting adjourned with reminders that the next business meeting will be in January 2026 with new seating arrangements.

The Loudoun County Board of Supervisors held a public hearing on December 10, 2025, to consider several agenda items including amendments to the transient occupancy tax, repeal of a tax exemption chapter, the 2026 legislative program, a daycare special exception, a rezoning, and a commuter lot replacement. One item was deferred. Consent Calendar - Items 1, 2, and 5 were adopted on the consolidated agenda. Item 1: Amendments to Chapter 878 (Transient Occupancy Tax) approved 8-1. Item 2: Repeal of Chapter 888 (Real Estate Tax Exemption for Surviving Spouses of Certain Persons Killed in the Line of Duty) approved 9-0. Item 5: LEGI-2025-0005, The Shops at Arcola Center (ZCPA-2025-0002) approved 9-0, replacing a planned commuter lot with a $1.4 million transit contribution. Public Comments & Testimony - On the 2026 Legislative Program, five speakers spoke in support of rent stabilization and affordable housing. Americo Lopez, a resident of Lisbon Mobile Home Park, described 86 families being displaced for luxury housing and supported 325 units of 100% affordable housing. Nubia Mendez (Litzburg Apartments resident) cited excessive rent increases and supported rent stabilization. Mavy Rodriguez (New Virginia Majority) noted rent increases of 30% since 2019 and supported local authority to limit annual rent increases. Andrea Olives reported a $100 monthly rent increase for a two-bedroom apartment and supported rent stabilization. Alejandro Hernandez, a single mother, stated she works full-time but cannot afford decent housing; she asked for help to stabilize rents. - On Sweet Tweet Home Daycare, one speaker, Robert Rogers, opposed the increase from 9 to 12 children due to traffic concerns on Gatwick Square, a street with no speed bumps. Discussion Items - 2026 Legislative Program: Staff presented four initiatives: state acquisition of Oak Hill for a state park (no state funds required), authority to consider power in land use decisions, enabling legislation for localities to establish rent stabilization, and removal of the cap on the homeownership grant program. Supplemental items included support for solar tax credits, net metering, multimodal improvements, and DMV MOVES funding for Metro. Supervisors discussed the need for public advocacy at the state level, with Chair Randall noting that previous legislation has not passed. - Sweet Tweet Home Daycare (LEGI-2025-0009, SPEX-2025-0015): Applicant Marzieh Mirza Salehi requested to increase the number of children from 9 to 12. The daycare operates from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. for children aged 3 months to 5 years. Staff supported with conditions requiring use of a nearby playground and timing of pickup/drop-off. The applicant stated HOA approval for playground use and no parking issues. Chair Randall noted the minimal traffic impact of three additional cars over staggered hours. - Pantovic Property Rezoning (LEGI-2024-0026, ZMAP-2024-0006): Applicant proposes rezoning 6.278 acres from CR1 to IP with modifications to setbacks and buffers. Staff noted inconsistency with the suburban neighborhood place type and recommended proffering out certain uses. Applicant proffered out data centers and utility substations but not flex industrial. Public comment: Rob Batchelder (property owner) supported, noting the area is now surrounded by industrial uses. A representative of the daycare supported. Emily Johnson (Piedmont Environmental Council) opposed, citing inconsistency with the comprehensive plan. The board deferred the item to the January 21, 2026 business meeting for further discussion. Key Outcomes - Consolidated Agenda Items 1, 2, 5: Approved as noted. - Item 6 (Concorde Industrial Park): Deferred to February 11, 2026 public hearing at the applicant's request; this is the second deferral, and Chair Randall stated no further deferrals will be granted. - Item 4 (Sweet Tweet Home Daycare): Approved 9-0 with conditions after a motion to suspend the rules. - Item 7 (Pantovic Property Rezoning): Deferred to January 21, 2026 business meeting by motion (9-0) to allow further work on conditions. - Next meeting: Tuesday, December 16, 2025 moved to 5:00 p.m. from 4:00 p.m. due to Chair Randall's commitment.

The Finance, Government Operations and Economic Development Committee (FGOEDC) of the Loudoun County Board of Supervisors met on December 9, 2025, at 5th Floor, 1 Harrison Street, Leesburg, VA. The committee approved a consent agenda, received the monthly economic development report and FY2025 audit results, took action on uses of unassigned general fund balance, discussed service levels for the FY2027 budget, and provided final budget guidance. Key outcomes included funding for a crosswalk safety study, an invasive species removal program, and budget parameters directing 9% county operating growth and increased housing fund contributions. Consent Calendar - Items approved unanimously (3–0 with Chair Randall and Supervisor Laterno off the dais): - Contract Award – Construction of the Sterling Boulevard W&OD Trail Overpass - Contract Award – Automatic External Defibrillators (AEDs) & Accessories - Shellhorn Road Extension Additional Funding Request - Fiscal Impact Committee 2025 Annual Report - Fiscal Impact Committee Bylaws Amendment 2025 - Sheriff’s Office Utilization of Federal and State Asset Forfeiture Funds (including $180,000 for TRM forensics pro, $210,000 for analyst notebooks, $32,000 for a zodiac boat, $75,000 for thermal imaging) - Disability Services Board Bylaws Amendment 2025 - Board of Equalization 2025 Annual Report Discussion Items - Monthly Department of Economic Development Report: Staff reported 57 wins, over 500 business retention activities, and support for creation/retention of over 4,600 jobs to date in FY25. November job listings in Loudoun exceeded 3,000 newly posted and 11,400 total active. Weekly continued unemployment claims remained steady at 1,000–1,100. A WARN notice for an Amazon distribution facility in Sterling will affect 247 jobs effective January 30, 2026; Amazon stated employees may transfer. The department launched an FY25 annual report inspired by Spotify’s “wrapped.” The Economic Development Advisory Commission (EDAC) reported recent tours and panel discussions, and thanked outgoing commissioners. Supervisor Saines noted 43 Inc. 5000 companies in Loudoun. Discussion highlighted tight flex/industrial space and the Amazon layoff’s relation to national tech adjustments and AI. - Results of FY2025 Financial Audit and Year-End Financial Condition: Elaine Crawford (interim Finance and Procurement director) and auditor Maliv Sheth (Cherry Bekaert) presented. The county ended FY25 with a positive net position of $3.5 billion, up $163 million (4.8%) over FY24. General fund revenues exceeded revised budget by $154.9 million (5.7%); expenditures were under budget by $74.7 million (2.6%). The county received an unmodified (clean) audit opinion with no material weaknesses. The fiscal reserve totaled $340 million (10% of operating revenues). Unassigned general fund balance stands at $194.4 million. - Uses of FY2025 Unassigned General Fund Balance (Item 5): Staff recommended allocations including a new $19 million federal impacts contingency fund and $10 million for cybersecurity. The committee debated several proposed uses. Motions passed: - Whitfield Place Crosswalk Safety Improvement Study ($950,000): Approved 4–1 (Supervisor Umstead opposed) – to fund a study after a pedestrian fatality; funds drawn from federal impacts contingency. - Invasive Species Removal Program ($2,000,000): Approved 4–1 (Supervisor Umstead opposed) – to replenish the highly successful program; funds from federal impacts contingency. Supervisor Umstead expressed concern about using contingency for this purpose. - Packet Motion (as amended): Approved 5–0 – directed $123,692,805 for FY2026 uses, included $34 million for one-time FY27 purposes, $25 million to fiscal reserve, $11.7 million to self-insurance fund, and accepted staff’s other recommended uses (including $10 million cybersecurity, $19 million federal contingency, etc.). - FY2027 Budget Development – Glass Recycling Program Expansion: Staff presented three scenarios: current service level (Scenario 1), expansion to Ashburn, Algonkian, and Dulles South (Scenario 2), and countywide equitable access (Scenario 3). Staff recommended achieving current service level first (completing nine drop-off centers) before expanding. The committee expressed consensus for Scenario 2 (three new mobile trailer sites), using plastic bag tax funds, with timeline subject to budget. - Recommended Service Levels – Department of Finance and Procurement: Staff presented performance measures for accounting/financial reporting, contracting, and grant management. Noted 1.5 million general ledger transactions processed annually, 65 solicitations (20-week average processing time, targeting 17 weeks), and 57 nonprofit grant applications (95% efficiency rate). New Oracle Fusion platform expected to improve efficiencies. - Recommended Service Levels – Fire and Rescue: Chief presented current capabilities, staffing challenges, and four-person engine company proposal per NFPA 1710. Discussed year-round recruiting, training investments, and future high-rise response readiness. Committee asked about volunteer staffing and regional partnerships. - FY2027 Budget Development – Final Budget Guidance: Staff recommended 9% county operating budget growth, 8% LCPS growth, maintaining real property tax rate at $0.805 per $100, personal property at $4.15, and vehicle tax at $3.09 (first full year). Excess Local Tax Funding (LTF) would be directed to CIP and housing (10% originally; later amended to 20%). Chair Briskman emphasized responsibly managing slowing data center revenue growth. Supervisor Saines supported 9% as a first step in constraint. Supervisor Umstead preferred county growth at 8% and a half-penny to full-penny real property tax reduction; she opposed funding the arts program as a priority. Chair Randall clarified the guidance on vehicle tax rate is for one year. Supervisor Laterno opposed the overall approach, advocating for lowering the vehicle tax rate to $3.00 (estimated $2.2 million impact) and not locking in high growth rates. Vice Chair Turner argued that holding tax rates steady avoids increasing dependence on data center revenue and prevents sharp future rate hikes. - Cigarette Tax Dedication: Chair Randall’s motion to dedicate the cigarette tax (approximately $3 million/year) to the housing fund for down payment and closing cost assistance passed 5–0. Chair Randall expressed frustration that the tax had not previously been used for this purpose despite her repeated requests. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously (3–0, with Chair Randall and Supervisor Laterno off dais). - Fund Balance Motions: - Whitfield Place Crosswalk Study: Approved 4–1. - Invasive Species Removal: Approved 4–1. - Packet Motion (as amended): Approved 5–0. - Cigarette Tax Dedication: Approved 5–0 – directs revenue to housing fund for down payment/closing cost assistance. - FY2027 Budget Guidance: Approved 3–2 (Supervisors Umstead and Laterno opposed) – directs County Administrator to prepare the proposed budget using: - Real property tax rate: $0.805/$100 assessed value - General personal property tax rate: $4.15/$100 - Vehicle personal property tax rate: $3.09/$100 - County operating budget growth: 9% - LCPS operating budget growth: 8% - Excess Local Tax Funding: 20% to housing fund, remainder to CIP (reducing from staff-recommended 10%) - Next Steps: The county administrator will incorporate guidance into the FY2027 proposed budget, to be presented to the full Board of Supervisors in early 2026.