Public Meetings - Loudoun County, Virginia

The Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) held a public hearing on July 24, 2026, to consider LEGI-2025-0056, the Ashburn Training Facility Sign Development Plan (ZMOD-2025-0005) for the Washington Commanders professional football franchise. This was the third hearing on the application; the previous hearings occurred on May 28 and June 25, 2026. The applicant presented a second revision of the sign plan, addressing prior board concerns about sign size, quantity, and visibility. Discussion Items - Planner Presentation: Brian Fish, a planner with Loudoun County Zoning Administration, presented the revised plan. Changes from the previous submission included: removal of one wall sign from the west facade of the sports dome; reduction of the north and south facade signs from 5,400 square feet to 3,864 square feet each (a reduction of approximately 30%); and retention of the east facade sign (P1) at 1,920 square feet, unchanged in size. The applicant stated that the signs on the north and south facades now occupy about 8% of the total facade area. - Applicant Arguments: The applicant (represented by counsel) emphasized that the signs are essential for identifying the facility as the home of the Washington Commanders and for sponsorship revenue. They noted the unique, inflatable dome structure (approximately 1 acre footprint) and argued that the signs are appropriately scaled. A series of 14 photographs taken in early July were shown to illustrate sign visibility from adjacent roadways. The applicant highlighted that the Washington Commanders have been in Loudoun County since 1992 and have no plans to relocate their practice facility. - Board Concerns: Board members raised several issues: the sheer size of the signs (described as "enormous" and akin to billboards); the precedent for large-scale signage; whether approval could be tied to the unique inflatable dome structure and to the specific use (conference and training center); and the longevity of the structure (estimated 5-year lifespan). Member Canonico questioned the fairness of giving special treatment to the Commanders over any other business. Member Forbes expressed concern about the signs being a "backdoor to advertising" and referenced the county's historic anti-billboard stance. The board attorney clarified that content is not a permissible consideration; only size, location, and design standards are relevant. - Conditions Discussed: Extensive deliberation focused on crafting conditions to limit future applicability. The zoning administrator suggested conditions tying signage to the dome structure and restricting sign area if the structure size changes. The board ultimately agreed to include a condition that the sports dome signage is limited to the existing structure or a structure of comparable inflatable type and size, and that if the structure size decreases, the cumulative sign area may not exceed the percentages specified in the sign plan (8% for north/south facades, 11% for east facade). Key Outcomes - Vote: The board approved the application (moved by Mr. Walker, seconded) with a vote of 3 in favor (Mr. Walker, Mr. Clark, Ms. Forbes – reluctantly) and 0 opposed. Two members (Mr. Canonico and another) expressed reservations but did not vote against. - Conditions of Approval: The approval is subject to the conditions of approval dated July 23, 2026, and the additional conditions: (1) Approval of the sports dome signage as shown in the sign plan shall be limited to the existing structure or a structure of comparable inflatable type and size. (2) Should the structure size decrease, the signage may not exceed the cumulative sign area identified on page 11 of the sign plan (i.e., the 8% and 11% facade coverage percentages). - Other Administrative Matters: The Assistant County Attorney reported that the RD Baseball minor special exception (heard July 15, 2026) is scheduled for action at the September business meeting. The Fields Farm RV storage case remains unresolved with no court date set. The Zoning Administrator noted there will be no meeting in August; the next BZA meeting is September 17, 2026.

The Loudoun County Planning Commission convened on July 23, 2026, to consider six public hearing items, including zoning amendments, agricultural and forestal district renewals, and three major development proposals. The meeting drew significant public engagement, with over 180 public comments and 64 registered speakers on the final item. Key outcomes included forwarding routine items with approval, referring two applications to work sessions, and recommending denial of a large-scale data center proposal. Consent Calendar - ZOAM-2026-0003, Chapter 10 Procedures – Placards: Staff presented a zoning ordinance amendment to clarify placard posting requirements, removing the obligation for the county to post placards on every parcel in county-initiated zoning map amendments while maintaining the requirement for individual development projects on county-owned land and restoring discretionary authority for the zoning administrator. No public comments were received. The Commission voted 6-0-3 (with three members absent) to forward the item to the Board of Supervisors with a recommendation of approval. Public Comments & Testimony - Cochran Tech (LEGI-2024-0037): Public testimony included opposition from the Piedmont Environmental Council, citing insufficient changes from a previously denied application, concerns about grading impacts on Goose Creek, and the removal of battery storage due to proximity to historic resources. Two other speakers voiced concerns about power availability and noise pollution. An adjacent property owner raised unresolved driveway and safety issues. - Western Loudoun Recreation Complex (LEGI-2025-0001): Four public speakers testified. Elizabeth Miller expressed concerns about traffic and noise. Emily Johnson (Piedmont Environmental Council) raised issues with water supply, tree conservation, lighting, and traffic impacts on Purcellville. Lincoln and Celia Meyer spoke in strong support, emphasizing the need for a local swimming facility for year-round swimmers. Vinod Motwani requested cricket fields for the growing community. - Spring Valley Technology Park (LEGI-2024-0074): Sixty-four individuals signed up to speak, with nearly all opposing the proposal. Residents and environmental advocates cited the project's inconsistency with the Transition Policy Area (TPA) comprehensive plan, environmental impacts on Beaver Dam Reservoir and Goose Creek, noise and air pollution from diesel generators, threats to wildlife and habitat, property value declines, and the precedent of industrial encroachment into residential areas. One speaker, representing Local 26 electricians, supported the project for its workforce development and community benefits agreement. A nine-year-old resident asked the Commission to "pause" and preserve the community's character. Discussion Items Cochran Tech (LEGI-2024-0037) – Referred to Work Session Staff presented changes since the Board of Supervisors remanded the application: a 20-foot grade reduction, 52-foot roof height (70 feet with mechanical), improved architecture, increased tree conservation, and proposed trail contributions. Outstanding issues included building height (proposed 70 feet vs. anticipated 48 feet), the location of energy storage near historic resources, and trail proffer timing. The applicant argued the redesign improved aesthetics and reduced visual impact. Commissioners expressed concerns about site grading, stormwater runoff, battery storage removal, and the unresolved driveway issue with a neighbor. The Commission voted 3-2-2 to refer the application to a future work session for further discussion. Western Loudoun Recreation Complex (LEGI-2025-0001) – Referred to Work Session Staff outlined a proposed 142-acre regional park with a 120,000-square-foot recreation center, a future 45,000-square-foot library placeholder, athletic fields, and amenities. Key issues included water supply (on-site wells and septic for a large pool and facilities), traffic impacts on already congested intersections, building design and tree conservation, and lighting levels in a rural area. The applicant highlighted public outreach and commitments to low-glare lighting, trail connectivity, and water-efficient design. Commissioners raised concerns about groundwater availability (with well tests showing 25 gallons per minute), the adequacy of the library site acreage, cumulative traffic effects, and the intensity of uses on a landlocked parcel. The Commission voted 6-0-3 to refer the application to a work session to address these issues. Spring Valley Technology Park (LEGI-2024-0074) – Recommended for Denial Staff recommended denial, finding the proposal for 3.25 million square feet of data centers on 325 acres in the Transition Policy Area (TPA) to be a "fundamental departure" from the Transition Large Lot Neighborhood place type, incompatible with surrounding residential and rural uses, and not in conformance with the zoning ordinance. The applicant presented proffers including 60% open space, significant tree conservation, underground transmission lines, battery storage, and a $10 million road improvement. However, commissioners and staff noted the project would rezone land designated for low-density housing, impact Beaver Dam Reservoir and Goose Creek, threaten heritage resources, and require major infrastructure extensions. Commissioners acknowledged the quality of the application but deemed the location inappropriate. The Commission voted 6-0-3 to forward the item to the Board of Supervisors with a recommendation of denial, based on attached findings. Key Outcomes - ZOAM-2026-0003: Forwarded to BOS with approval recommendation (6-0-3). - New Featherbed AFD (ALEGI-2026-0001): Approved renewal for four years with 40-acre minimum subdivision and no clustering (6-0-3). - Hillbrook AFD (ALEGI-2026-0002): Approved renewal for four years with 20-acre minimum subdivision and no clustering (6-0-3). - Cochran Tech: Referred to planning commission work session (3-2-2). - Western Loudoun Recreation Complex: Referred to planning commission work session (6-0-3). - Spring Valley Technology Park: Forwarded to BOS with denial recommendation (6-0-3). The meeting adjourned at approximately 11:00 p.m.

The Loudoun County Board of Supervisors reconvened its July 21, 2026 business meeting on July 22, 2026 at 6:00 PM. The meeting included ceremonial resolutions, public comments, discussion of a white paper on electrical transmission planning, approval of a zoning amendment for a doggy daycare, a board member initiative on data center generator regulations, and a contentious vote to change the chair of the Finance/Government Operations and Economic Development Committee. The board also considered the Department of Planning and Zoning work plan and approved several motions related to data centers and village planning. Consent Calendar - Proclamation and Resolutions: Approved a proclamation recognizing August 2-8, 2026 as National Health Center Week; a resolution recognizing Military Appreciation Mondays; resolutions of commendation for Freedom High School Boys Tennis and Track & Field teams and Rock Ridge High School Boys Tennis 2026 4A State Championship; a proclamation recognizing July 26, 2026 as Americans with Disabilities Act Awareness Day; and a resolution commemorating the USO Lounge at Washington Dulles International Airport. (All approved unanimously) - Finance/Government Operations and Economic Development Committee Items: Approved award authority during August recess, award authority increase for educational software, pre-development loan pilot program for Robinson Townhomes (Little River), attainable housing loan program for Lakeview Apartments (Algonkian), resolution requesting extension of 2018 bond referendum, Northern Virginia Regional Commission Strategic Funding Initiative, and 2027 retiree health premium review. - Transportation and Land Use Committee Items: Approved Planning Commission 2025 Annual Report, proposed amendment of Chapter 1066 and repeal of Chapter 1067 of county ordinances, and proposed rewrite of Chapter 838 (swimming pools). - Appointments and Administrative Items: Confirmed appointments and administrative items report. - Other Items: Approved resolutions of intent to amend Facilities Standards Manual for cultural resources and fire apparatus access road shoulders; PCOR-2026-0060 Dogwood Farm Station proffer amendment; LEGI-2025-0069 LCPS View Transition Academy; LEGI-2026-0012 Fractus-Lenticular Substations; Board Member Initiative for Loudoun County Veterans Memorial redesign (moved by Supervisor Saines, directing staff to work with American Legion Post 150 and others to redesign the memorial at Sterling Boulevard and Holly Avenue and research other veteran memorials on county grounds). Public Comments & Testimony - Lana Romeyer (Paonian Springs): Urged the board to prioritize small area plans for historic villages, emphasizing community input and preserving unique qualities. - Madeline Skinner (representing rural historic villages): Asked that small area plans be made a top priority for DPZ, noting villages have waited 40 years for plans; highlighted threats from agritourism and event venues. - Peter Weeks (Blue Mont, Loudoun Historic Village Alliance): Endorsed small area plan process, requested implementation for all historic villages to define borders, create local zoning, and maintain green buffers. - Patricia Logue (Lucketts): Asked to continue prioritizing small area plans; described challenges facing local businesses and need for stable zoning. - Phil Daly (Lincoln Community League): Expressed urgency for small area plans, citing zoning issues and lack of protection for the last dairy farm. - David Ward (Catoctin district): Urged board not to proceed with recommended retiree health premium increases; reported a 63% increase in his premium from 2024 to 2027. - Warren Brazil (Loudoun Foreign War Memorial Trust Fund Committee): Supported the veterans memorial BMI, requested inclusion of Revolutionary War memorial. - Shane Crow (Algonkian district): Advocated for ranked-choice voting, citing benefits observed in DC primaries. - Roger Smith (Paonian Springs): Criticized the TBD status of small area plans; noted health threats from failing wells and septic fields and requested immediate start of planning. - Tony Virgilio (neighbor of Happy Paws K-9): Opposed the Happy Paws application, arguing it violates home occupation regulations; listed noise, odor, traffic, and contamination issues; requested denial of the zoning amendment. - Debbie Virgilio: Delivered a petition to the board; her wife was hospitalized. - William Marsh (Loudoun Environmental Commission): Summarized commission priorities including groundwater action plan, invasive species review, and support for energy innovation forum. Discussion Items - Item I-2: Reliability Standards and Electrical Transmission Planning White Paper: Staff from Planning and Zoning and Kimley-Horn presented the white paper explaining the framework for grid reliability, NERC standards, PJM planning process, and opportunities for county engagement. Supervisors discussed the lack of local control, the need for early involvement in PJM's Transmission Expansion Advisory Committee (TIAC) and sub-regional RTEP committees, and concerns about transmission line routing. Supervisor Briskman moved to direct staff to monitor all public meetings involving PJM, Dominion, FERC, TIAC, and RTEP, and engage regularly. The motion passed 7-0-2 (Letourneau and Kershner absent). Later, Chair Randall noted the county has no veto power over transmission lines; Mr. Turner added that local control lies in on-site generation requirements. - Item 11: Happy Paws K-9 (LEGI-2024-0012): Staff reported changes to setback and outdoor play area. Supervisor Takroni moved to approve with a cap of 20 dogs (including owner's dogs) and revised conditions. Discussion included concerns about initial non-compliance, balancing business viability with neighbor impacts. Motion passed 7-0-2. - Item 14: BMI - Operational Regulations on Existing Data Center Backup Generators: Supervisor Saines moved to direct staff to research local regulations on backup generator operations, including mandating selective catalytic reduction (SCR) and diesel particulate filters on generators below Tier 4 standards. Supporters cited noise and health impacts from recent generator use, such as during a Code Red air quality day. The motion passed 7-0-2. - Item 15: BMI - Change of Finance/Government Operations and Economic Development Committee Chair: Chair Randall moved to replace Supervisor Briskman with Supervisor Saines as committee chair, citing multiple incidents of inappropriate behavior. Supervisor Briskman denied violations of ethics. Supervisor Kershner noted she called him KKK on social media; Supervisor Turner cited a video with obscene language and his image, and posing with an effigy of Sheriff Chapman. The motion passed 5-3-1 (with Letourneau absent), with Umstattd, Takroni, and Briskman voting no. - Item 8: Department of Planning and Zoning Work Plan: DPZ Director Dan Galindo presented the work plan, highlighting heavy workload and limited capacity. Supervisors discussed small area plans, data center standards, and the Route 28 tax district dissolution. Supervisor Briskman moved to direct staff to prepare an item for September to cease processing data center applications until phase two of data center standards is completed. After debate about legality, the motion passed 7-1-1 (Umstattd opposed, Letourneau absent). Supervisor Takroni moved to study decommissioning of abandoned data centers, including bonds and legislative options; passed 7-0-2. Supervisor Takroni also moved to defer new wastewater connections in St. Louis until zoning map amendments are adopted; passed 7-0-2. Key Outcomes - Approved Consent Calendar including all agenda items listed as consent, with the veterans memorial BMI motion read into the record. - Passed Motion on Transmission Planning Monitoring: Directed county administrator to designate staff to monitor PJM, Dominion, FERC, TIAC, and RTEP meetings; if insufficient staff, return to board with a proposal. (Vote: 7-0-2) - Approved Happy Paws K-9 with conditions limiting to 20 dogs, increased setbacks, and acoustical consultant. (Vote: 7-0-2) - Passed BMI on Backup Generator Regulations: Directed staff to research local regulations, including SCR and diesel particulate filters, and report back. (Vote: 7-0-2) - Changed Finance Committee Chair: Removed Supervisor Briskman, appointed Supervisor Saines. (Vote: 5-3-1) - Approved Motion on Data Center Application Pause: Directed staff to prepare an item for September 15, 2026 board meeting to consider ceasing processing data center applications until phase two standards complete, with legal review. (Vote: 7-1-1) - Approved Motion on Data Center Decommissioning Study: Directed staff to study decommissioning options (including diesel generators, substations, etc.) and feasibility of requiring decommissioning bonds, with recommendations if authority lacking. (Vote: 7-0-2) - Approved St. Louis Wastewater Service Area Deferral: Deferred new connections until zoning ordinance and map amendments are adopted. (Vote: 7-0-2) - Approved DPZ Work Plan as presented, incorporating all passed motions. (Vote: 7-0-2)

The Board of Supervisors Business Meeting was called to order at 11:00 AM on July 21, 2026. After the Pledge of Allegiance and brief comments from Supervisor Glass (who asked for prayers for traveling colleagues) and Chair Randall (who echoed the sentiment), the Chair immediately adjourned the meeting. No agenda items were discussed or voted upon. The meeting was recessed to the following day, July 22, 2026, at 6:00 PM. Consent Calendar - No items were considered. Public Comments & Testimony - None. Discussion Items - None. Key Outcomes - The meeting was adjourned without any action. The Board recessed to July 22, 2026, at 6:00 PM.

The Loudoun County Board of Supervisors held a public hearing on July 15, 2026, addressing nine agenda items including eminent domain, property conveyances, blight ordinances, zoning and special exception applications for a government warehouse, a baseball training academy, two electrical substations, and capital intensity factors. The meeting lasted approximately three and a half hours with public testimony on multiple items. Consent Calendar - Item 1 – Farmwell Road Eminent Domain: The board approved a motion to forward the resolution approving the use of eminent domain for the Farmwell Road (Smith Switch to Ashburn Road) project to the September 15, 2026 Business Meeting for action. The motion passed 8-0-1 (one absent). Supervisors Glass and Turner expressed commitment to continued engagement with affected property owners before final action. - Item 2 – Compass Creek Conveyance: The board approved the conveyance of county property, easements, and performance agreements within the 2025 Town of Leesburg annexation area. Motion passed 8-0-1. - Item 3 – Riptide Square Blight Ordinance: The board adopted an ordinance authorizing removal of a fire-damaged structure at 20701 Riptide Square. Supervisor Bricksman noted the structure was an eyesore and public safety hazard following an arson incident. The ordinance includes a 30-day appeal period. Motion passed 9-0. - Item 5 – Loudoun School for Advanced Studies: The board approved zoning conversion, concept plan amendment, and minor special exceptions to relocate the school to a new facility in the Algonkian district. Motion passed 9-0. Supervisor Bricksman thanked staff and Supervisor Turner for collaboration. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 4 – Tuscarora Landbay 4: Three public speakers spoke. Fosia Bruk (Tuscarora Crossing resident) questioned compatibility with surrounding residential neighborhoods, citing 19 pages of conditions. A second speaker (unidentified) stated the HOA does not represent residents and expressed concerns about truck traffic and safety. Emily Johnson (Piedmont Environmental Council) urged the county to lead by example with solar deployment, battery storage, and robust EV charging, and supported sustainability features added to the application. - Item 8 – R&D Hamilton Academy (RD Baseball): Approximately 21 speakers. Supporters included local athletes, parents, and coaches who highlighted the program’s positive impact on youth development, discipline, and college/professional opportunities. Opponents included neighboring residents who cited safety concerns over traffic (estimated 196 vehicle trips per day), a narrow private access road, inadequate fire access, and inconsistency with rural agricultural zoning. Some neighbors noted the property’s prior equestrian use and expressed that RD Baseball’s operations had already caused disturbance. Two speakers (Thomas Gettings and Stephanie Van Prier, through counsel) argued the applicant lacks legal easement rights to widen the access road. - Item 7 – Golden Substation: Five public speakers. Clement Lupton (Loudoun Chamber of Commerce) and three residents (Ganesh Subramaniam, Pradeep Gubala, Rajashekar Sheshula) supported the substation as critical for grid reliability. Victor Block (community representative) acknowledged improvements but requested further design enhancements, noting that 20-foot walls and transmission structures remain visible from the W&OD trail and Route 28. - Item 9 – Capital Intensity Factors: No public speakers registered. Discussion Items - Item 4 – Tuscarora Landbay 4: Staff presented a proposal for a 130,000 sq ft government building with office and warehouse facilities on a 15-acre site originally proffered for public use (school). The applicant (Loudoun County Department of General Services) described the use as a maintenance and records repository with 150 employees, four to five daily deliveries, and a 43% reduction in vehicle trips compared to the originally planned elementary school. Changes from community feedback included parking reduction from 520 to 425 spaces, six-foot berm along Natchez Drive, building redesign to resemble an elementary school, 20 EV charging spaces, and restrictions on truck types (no box trucks over 26 feet or 15 tons). Supervisor Umstead noted the HOA’s lack of representation for residents. Supervisor Turner expressed discomfort with converting potential housing land to a warehouse use, citing the county’s housing shortage. The board voted 9-0 to forward the item to the September 15, 2026 Business Meeting. - Item 8 – R&D Hamilton Academy: The applicant proposed three minor special exceptions to operate a baseball training academy on a 21-acre rural property: increase employees from 4 to 8, increase structure area from 6,000 sq ft to 9,256 sq ft, and reduce setbacks from 300 ft to 150/70/54 ft. Staff supported with conditions including site plan review, lighting restrictions, and safety netting. Debate centered on the private access road, fire marshal compliance, and whether the applicant has legal easement rights to widen the road. Supervisor Kirshner noted the applicant had already invested over $2.5 million and faced procedural delays. Supervisor Croney and others questioned compatibility with rural character and emergency vehicle access. The board voted 9-0 to forward to the September 1, 2026 Business Meeting. - Item 6 – Tech Park at Dulles Substation: Staff presented a commission permit and special exceptions for a 6-acre substation on a 20.6-acre parcel, proximate to existing transmission lines and planned data centers. The planning commission unanimously recommended approval. The applicant highlighted minimal visual impact (12-foot screening wall, berm, reforestation). No public speakers. The board approved the commission permit (7-0-1 with Bricksman absent) and forwarded the special exceptions to September 15, 2026 (7-1-1, with Supervisor Turner opposing on the latter). - Item 7 – Golden Substation: Staff recommended approval of a commission permit and special exceptions for a 500 kV gas-insulated substation with a 20-foot screen wall on 15.8 acres. The applicant (Dominion Energy) stressed grid reliability, noting the substation was already 6–12 months behind schedule and that the region narrowly avoided load shedding during a recent heat wave. The application included enhanced screening along the W&OD trail and Route 28, a decorative fence, and over two acres of pollinator habitat. Supervisor Saints proposed a 30-day delay to explore additional design options (citing a Minneapolis substation example) but later accepted a friendly amendment to move both parts to September 1, 2026. The motion passed 7-1-1, with Supervisor Turner voting against. - Item 9 – Capital Intensity Factors: Staff presented updated standard capital intensity factors and a by-size differential option. The board amended the effective date to apply to all new rezoning applications only (as opposed to applications not yet before the board), consistent with historical practice. The motion passed 5-0 (with some supervisors absent). Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: All five consent items were approved as noted above (votes: 8-0-1 or 9-0). - Tuscarora Landbay 4: Forwarded to September 15, 2026 Business Meeting (9-0). - R&D Hamilton Academy: Forwarded to September 1, 2026 Business Meeting (9-0). - Tech Park at Dulles Substation: Commission permit ratified (7-0-1); special exceptions forwarded to September 15, 2026 (7-1-1). - Golden Substation: Commission permit and special exceptions forwarded to September 1, 2026 Business Meeting (7-1-1). - Capital Intensity Factors: Adopted with effective date for new rezoning applications (5-0). - Supervisor Bricksman participated remotely until approximately 8:00 PM, then left; she was recorded as absent for later votes.

The Loudoun County Facility Standards Manual Public Review Committee (FSM PRC) met on July 9, 2026. Note: the agenda for this meeting is dated June 18, 2026; per source metadata the meeting date is July 9, 2026, and this summary follows that date. Chair Kevin called the meeting to order with 13 committee members and a quorum of 7 present, and no members participated remotely. No public comments were offered. The committee adopted updated bylaws, approved prior minutes, reviewed an updated erosion and sediment control (ESC) bond unit price list, received referral responses for two draft ZOAMs, reviewed its annual report, and held extended discussion of a plan clearance tech memo, which was deferred pending review by the county attorney’s office. Administrative Items - Bylaws update: On May 19, 2026, the Board of Supervisors approved FSM PRC bylaw amendments increasing the potential number of all-virtual meetings from 25% to 50%. The committee unanimously adopted Article 7 and Article 8 of the bylaws for remote participation and all-virtual meetings for the remainder of calendar year 2026. - Minutes: The May 21, 2026 minutes were approved with a correction — adding the word "acts" in the third paragraph in which the chair called the meeting to order and stated the meeting was being conducted as an all-virtual meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were offered. ESC Unit Price List Update Tech Memo - Orion Sader, Erosion and Sediment Control Program Manager, and Gwen Kennedy, Natural Resources Division Manager, presented the updated ESC bond unit price list, last updated in 2022. Sader said the county surveyed land-disturbing activity firms to determine general ESC costs and updated the list, adding controls from the ESC handbook that were not included on the previous list. - Sader noted that as of July 1, 2026, an agreement in lieu of an ESC plan is available for single-family homes or accessory uses (e.g., a pool) on up to one acre, with a flat bond amount, since extensive controls are not typical below that threshold. He said he is weighing whether to waive bonds altogether for disturbances under 10,000 square feet in these situations. - Committee discussion included questions about why the bond includes so many line items when the purpose of the bond is to allow the county to come in and stabilize the site if the developer walks away; Sader and Kennedy responded that it depends on the circumstances and that the structure is standard in most jurisdictions. Members also asked about corporate sureties, Excel-based forms, and ADA accessibility of a fillable PDF. The ePlan/CPAP terminology and a title line that should read "Version 7 Control Bond Estimate Form" were flagged for correction. - The effective date of July 1, 2026 was chosen to coincide with the Chapter 1096 ordinance update establishing the agreement in lieu. Archaeology and Fire Marshal Referral Comments - Dan and Lee of the Fire Marshal’s Office reported no comments. Laura stated the referral response rate was the highest ever — 16 of 23 referrals returned (17 counting schools, whose comment was "no comment") — and that DTCI commented the drafts would improve the transportation network. - Steve of DPZ introduced Katie Kosak, Loudoun County’s new archaeologist and collections manager. Referral comments included: the VSMP team asked that Section 811 reference the most current adopted Virginia Stormwater Management Handbook; DPZ community planning caught a missed terminology change from "archaeology" to "cultural resources"; and zoning ordinance terminology will be addressed through the "zoning ordinance adjustments" quick fix rather than the FSM ZOAM. - Gwen Kennedy reported that a review comment from the natural resources program identified a potential conflict where archaeological surveys in the mountainside overlay district and limestone areas could be interpreted as land-disturbing activities requiring a grading permit. Staff met with the zoning administrator and are preparing an advisory opinion clarifying that surveys returning the ground to existing condition are not land disturbance; the clarification will also be incorporated into a future cleanup ZOAM. - Loudoun Water’s referral was initially unclear; after meeting with staff, they revised it and raised no objections to the ZOAM as presented. - Timeline: staff plan to take the intent-to-amend resolutions to the July 21, 2026 Board of Supervisors meeting, then to the Planning Commission in September and the Board in November, with potential inclusion in the January 1, 2027 annual FSM update. Annual Report - Laura presented the draft annual report to the Board of Supervisors covering the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026 (one speaker described the period as "July 1st of 2021 through June 30th of 2026," an apparent slip). The committee met 16 times during the year — two fewer than the prior year — and has 13 members with a quorum of 7. - The report aligns the purpose section with the new bylaws, notes the bylaws amendment, and lists two approved ZOAMs during the reporting period: Rowways Over Dams and Plat Notes (approved July 9 of the prior year) and the ZOR, the Stormwater Handbook, and the timing for PSRs (approved last September). It also lists the two draft ZOAMs reviewed this year (archaeology and Fire Marshal). - A new category captured other discussion items, including the floodplain work group, the 10-year reserve fund, and a gated residential community entrance discussion. Betsy made word-smithing edits, and members agreed the committee "discussed" staff recommendations rather than "debated" them; no substantive content changes were raised. - The report goes to the Transportation and Land Use Committee (TLAC) in July before going to the Board of Supervisors. Plan Clearance Tech Memo - Zeb presented the plan clearance tech memo, which follows an outreach tour to industry groups. The memo formalizes optional, request-based clearances (e.g., design, mapping, VDOT entrance) that allow grading or other early work while a site plan is still in review, and it proposes replacing "conditional approval" with "approval with conditions": once all comments are addressed, the plan would be marked approved in Landmark, drop off the project manager’s list, and carry conditions (e.g., recorded easements, posted bonds) that must be satisfied before permits are issued. - Committee members raised practical concerns. Brandon predicted the bond-posting requirement would be a recurring problem because applicants would be paying on bonds while unrelated issues pend; Zeb responded that developers he spoke with had no concern about the bonding issue and that the process is voluntary. Pete asked whether the VSMP permit requirement creates a catch-22 because a VSMP permit cannot be issued until the grading permit is approved; staff agreed to verify that sequencing. Keith asked how an applicant requests a clearance and was told it is by request through the project manager. - Jason of the County Attorney’s Office objected to the "approval" terminology, stating that signing the plan and calling it approved indicates final plan approval and creates legal entitlements; he noted that Virginia Code §15.2-2261 does not mention easements and argued a plan cannot be approved without the legal right to build the site. Carlos said he was not sure that code section is being properly interpreted as requiring a conditional approval and called for a broader legal discussion. Jason also asked that the tech memo be aligned with the existing early grading process in FSM Section 8.200. - The committee agreed that no final decision could be made without consulting the county attorney’s office. Laura said she would convene a meeting with Carlos and Jason, and the committee will revisit the memo in July, August, or September, possibly at an all-virtual meeting. Staff will consider adding a flowchart and timeline showing the two tracks. Conditional approvals remain in use in the meantime. Key Outcomes - The committee unanimously adopted Article 7 and Article 8 of the FSM PRC bylaws for remote participation and all-virtual meetings for the remainder of calendar year 2026. - The May 21, 2026 meeting minutes were approved with a one-word correction. - The ESC unit price list tech memo will be corrected (including retitling the form as "Version 7 Control Bond Estimate Form") and published with a July 1, 2026 effective date. - The Archaeology and Fire Marshal draft ZOAMs were cleared by the referral process and are scheduled for the July 21, 2026 Board of Supervisors intent-to-amend agenda, September Planning Commission, and November Board, with possible inclusion in the January 1, 2027 FSM annual update. - The annual report will be finalized with minor edits and submitted to TLAC in July, then to the Board of Supervisors. - The plan clearance tech memo was deferred pending legal review; the county attorney’s office will meet with staff, and the committee will revisit the memo in July, August, or September. Conditional approvals continue until then. - A committee member announced a job change at the end of the month and offered to remain until a replacement is found. The next meeting is scheduled for Thursday, July 16, 2026 (Dulles Room), with an August recess.

The Loudoun County Planning Commission held a work session and public hearing on July 9, 2026, at 11:00 AM. The meeting began with the approval of minutes from the May 14, 2026 work session and the June 23, 2026 public hearing, both passed 7-0-2 with Commissioners Myers and Jasper absent. The sole work session item, LEGI-2024-0056 (Dulles Technology Park), was deferred to the September 10, 2026 work session at the applicant's request. Commissioners disclosed contacts with representatives of the deferred application and the Golden Substation application. The public hearing addressed two items: Dulles South Community Park and Golden Substation, both previously heard and revised. Consent Calendar - Minutes of the May 14, 2026 Planning Commission Work Session approved 7-0-2. - Minutes of the June 23, 2026 Planning Commission Public Hearing approved 7-0-2. Public Comments & Testimony - Dulles South Community Park: Tom Toma, a resident of Willisford, expressed that the lighting demonstration addressed his concerns but remained worried about construction traffic and conflicts with nearby school traffic. Frank Blackstone, President of the Willisford HOA, thanked the commission, staff, and applicant for addressing resident concerns and facilitating the lighting demo. Remote speaker BJ Constantine opposed the location, citing safety and traffic congestion for approximately 4,000 students at nearby schools (Hovatter, Henrietta Lacks, and Light Ridge Elementary/High schools). - Golden Substation: No members of the public signed up to speak. Discussion Items - Dulles South Community Park (LEGI-2024-0008): Staff presented updates including an additional special exception to increase field light color temperature from 3,000K to 5,700K, commitment to plant 16 evergreen trees near the pinch point with residential uses, and a successful lighting demonstration. LCPS provided a letter of support citing ongoing coordination on traffic, construction, and safety. The applicant clarified that the park (renamed Light Ridge Park by the Board of Supervisors) will feature a centralized hub, natural turf with potential future synthetic turf, layered security, and full-cutoff lights with precise aiming. Lighting can be controlled automatically and remotely. The traffic study was accepted by DTCI without outstanding issues. Commissioner questions focused on lighting control, dark sky certification (not pursued due to pole height constraints), and community engagement. The motion to approve with conditions carried 7-0-2. - Golden Substation (LEGI-2025-0012): Staff noted the application was revised to include a 20-foot tall screen wall, a decorative 10-foot tall supplemental screen fence along the W&OD Trail and Route 28, and an additional 520 plant units (total 1,048). The applicant described these as enhanced screening developed through an electrical infrastructure working group and public open houses. Two-tone wall options (dark green lower, lighter upper) were shown. Off-site plantings along the W&OD Trail with Nova Parks were committed. Commissioners voiced frustration that improvements were limited despite years of discussion about substation aesthetics. Some supported the motion as a reliability necessity; Commissioner Miller opposed, stating he could no longer support 20-foot prison walls. The final vote was 6-1-2, with Commissioner Miller dissenting. The commission expressed preference for the two-tone wall design and requested a condition memorializing the off-site planting commitment. Key Outcomes - Dulles South Community Park: Approved 7-0-2; motion by Commissioner Miller, seconded by Commissioner Frank. Recommendation to the Board of Supervisors of approval subject to conditions dated June 29, 2026, and findings in attachments 1 and 2 of the staff report. - Golden Substation: Commission permit approved 6-1-2; special exceptions forwarded to the Board of Supervisors with a recommendation of approval subject to conditions dated July 2, 2026, and findings in attachments 2 and 3 of the staff report. The commission directed staff to include preference for two-tone wall (dark green lower, lighter upper) in the summary to the Board. - Dulles Technology Park work session item deferred to September 10, 2026. Briefing on July 23, 2026 Public Hearing Items Staff previewed six items: two AFD renewals (Hillbrook and Newfeather), Cochrane Tech (data center, returned from Board with reduced intensity and relocated energy storage), Spring Valley Technology Park (3.25 million sq ft data center, 12 buildings, modifications to setbacks and buffers), and Western Loudoun Recreational Complex (145-acre regional park with recreation center and library, with a request for field lights similar to Dulles South). Commissioner Soden noted the library size limit of 45,000 sq ft may be insufficient, suggesting a minimum of 52,000 sq ft. Staff will prepare detailed presentations.

The Loudoun County Board of Supervisors held its regular business meeting on July 7, 2026, beginning at 9:00 AM. The meeting included adoption of the consent agenda, presentation of Virginia Association of Counties (VACo) Achievement Awards, discussion of an electrical substations white paper, public comments, and votes on several land-use and policy items, including the Secondary Road Six-Year Plan, an agrivoltaics white paper, and two substation applications. Consent Calendar - Affordable Dwelling Unit Advisory Board FY 2026 Annual Report – Approved. - Housing Advisory Board FY 2026 Annual Report – Approved. - Housing Choice Voucher Resident Advisory Board FY 2026 Annual Report – Approved. - Loudoun County Natural Resources Strategy – Approved. - Appointments and Confirmations (Item 2a) – Approved. - Administrative Items Report of July 7, 2026 – Approved. Public Comments & Testimony - Gravel Roads / Secondary Road Six-Year Plan: Multiple residents from the Catoctin and Little River districts spoke in favor of using state funds for targeted improvements to unpaved gravel roads without paving. Speakers (Cindy Kohler, Abigail Lawrence, Craig Bond, Emily Houston, Jane Covington, John Benedict, Thomas Donahue, Paul Basilio, Pauline Nagle, Catherine Jones, Avis Renshaw, Emily Johnson) expressed support for the Rural Roads Bill and criteria-based approaches to improve drainage, stability, and safety while preserving rural character. A representative from the Rural Roads Committee noted that a pilot demonstration project on Old Waterford Road served as a model. - Substations and Data Centers: Clement Lupton (Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce) urged approval of the Aspen substation for grid reliability. Several residents (Elizabeth Stutzman, Kim Fulmer, Kylie Omer, Stacey Westman) opposed data center expansion near homes, citing noise, air quality, water use, property values, and inadequate community engagement. One speaker (Robert Griffin) made personal remarks about the Chair. - Other: Pete Holm spoke in support of the Barrister substation, noting its location amid other data centers and substations. Discussion Items - Electrical Substations White Paper (Item I-2): Staff and consultant Kimley Horn presented an overview of substation types (air-insulated vs. gas-insulated), siting considerations, screening methods, and proposed definition changes. Supervisors questioned noise impacts, setbacks, costs, cybersecurity risks, and the potential for requiring on-site substations. No formal action taken; the white paper will inform future Phase 2 policy development. - Secondary Road Six-Year Plan (Item 4): Supervisor Kirshner moved to approve the FY 2027–2032 plan, accepting state funds for future projects pending development of criteria for unpaved road improvements. The motion passed 9-0 after discussion on pilot projects and coordination with VDOT. - Agrivoltaics White Paper (Item 7): Supervisor Briskman and TeKrony introduced a board member initiative directing the Rural Economic Development Council (REDC) to study agrivoltaics (combining solar and farming) and return with a scope. A friendly amendment to include panel disposal was added. The motion passed 8-1, with Supervisor Kirshner voting against, citing concerns about viewsheds and long-term impacts. - Aspen Substation (Item 6): After updates on community meetings and enhanced screening, Supervisor Umstead moved to approve the application (LEGI-2024-0038) with conditions including a Pueblo-colored screen wall. The motion carried 8-1, with Supervisor Briskman dissenting due to insufficient visual mitigation and cumulative impacts. Supervisors cited grid reliability as a key justification. - Barrister Substation (Item 5): Supervisor Sainz moved to approve the application (LEGI-2025-0010) with enhanced buffering and screening. The motion passed 8-1, with Chair Randall voting against, stating it serves data centers, not reliability. Several supervisors praised applicant improvements but called for upfront better design on future applications. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved (vote tally not specified, but appeared unanimous). - Secondary Road Six-Year Plan: Approved 9-0. - Agrivoltaics White Paper: Approved 8-1 (Kirshner opposed). - Aspen Substation: Approved 8-1 (Briskman opposed). - Barrister Substation: Approved 8-1 (Randall opposed). - Closed Sessions: Four closed sessions were held (items XII-1 through XII-4) for property disposition and business expansion discussions; no formal action taken. - Board Comments: Supervisors disclosed meetings, made announcements (including back-to-school supply drive, transit-on-demand pilot, and Route 15 study), and exchanged remarks regarding town hall procedures and data center policies.

The Loudoun County Board of Supervisors and Planning Commission held a joint special business meeting on June 30, 2026, to discuss several major land use and policy items. The meeting covered updates on the Western Loudoun Rural Uses and Standards (WLRUS) project, the Data Center Standards and Locations Phase 2 initiative, the Planning Commission's decision-making process, and an emergency resolution concerning transmission line routes near Rock Ridge High School. Western Loudoun Rural Uses and Standards (WLRUS) Project Plan Timeline - Staff presented an updated timeline for the WLRUS project. The Board of Supervisors amended the project plan on June 2, 2026, replacing the Zoning Ordinance Committee (ZOC) review with an ad hoc committee consisting of five ZOC members and four Planning Commissioners. The committee is expected to hold an orientation in mid-July, followed by meetings from August to November. An informational item will go to the ZOC in December, with a Planning Commission public hearing in January 2027, work sessions in February and March, a Board public hearing in May, and adoption in July 2027. - Board Chair Randall explained that the condensed timeline was partly due to 2027 being an election year, when the Board is less available. - Planning Commissioner Myers asked about public input opportunities for the ad hoc committee. Staff clarified that meetings will be open to the public but will not include a public comment period. Commissioner Myers and others emphasized the importance of public input, especially for rural stakeholders. - Commissioner Frank suggested scheduling separate meetings for the WLRUS public hearing to avoid conflicts with other agenda items and to allow earlier start times. Planning Commission Chair Kears agreed to consider this. - Commissioner Jasper raised concerns about the three-month gap between the committee's conclusion and the Planning Commission's review, noting that dense material may need to be relearned. Staff noted that the four commissioners on the committee will bring institutional knowledge. Data Centers Standards and Locations Phase 2 - Randall Farron, Program Manager, provided an overview of Phase 2 of the Data Center Standards and Locations project. The project aims to develop nuanced policy guidance for data center special exceptions, including site design, building design, noise, water, energy, and definitions. It also covers substations, on-site power generation, battery energy storage, and microgrids. No remapping is associated with this phase. - The timeline has slipped by about five months due to various reasons, and the project is now expected to be completed by spring/summer 2027. Staff is currently in the amendment drafting phase, with stakeholder outreach planned in about six weeks, followed by a Board check-in in fall 2026. - Supervisor Kears asked about emerging technologies like solid fuel cells and natural gas infrastructure. Staff confirmed they are studying these technologies through consultants. - Supervisor Briskman expressed frustration with timeline slippage and questioned the overlap between Phase 2 and the Electrical Infrastructure Working Group. She also asked about the county's ability to adjust noise ordinances to hold data centers accountable. Staff indicated they are exploring decibel level adjustments and measurement methods. - Supervisor Turner proposed a framework for evaluating on-site power sources based on six factors: noise, power, water, emissions, setback, and appearance. He also raised concerns about applying new noise standards to existing data centers (currently 55 dB at receiving property line). Staff noted they are working on incentives for retrofits. - Supervisor Glass asked about new definitions for substations. Staff explained they are adding nuance to distinguish between air-insulated, gas-insulated, and hybrid substations. - Planning Commissioner Myers asked about smaller data centers in industrial parks that are not large-scale, suggesting a different definition or use category. Staff acknowledged this. - Commissioner Myers also noted that the 55 dB noise standard originated from airport noise studies in the 1989-1990 period. Electrical Infrastructure Working Group Update - Jonathan Zader, Senior Assistant County Attorney, provided an update on the Electrical Infrastructure Working Group, formed after the June 2, 2025 Board motion. The group held meetings on June 8, 15, and 22, 2026, with about 50 participants including county staff, Dominion Energy, NOVEC, data center industry representatives, and community members selected by the Loudoun Coalition of Homeowners and Condominium Associations. - The group discussed countywide electrical infrastructure needs, specific substation applications (Aspen, Golden, Barrister, Demos), and substation design types (air-insulated vs. gas-insulated). No formal decisions were made; the group is focused on information sharing. - Supervisor Briskman expressed concerns about the group's lack of public openness and project creep. She noted that HOA representatives cannot fully inform all county constituents. She requested that all Board offices be notified of future meetings. County Attorney Rogers clarified that the group is a staff committee, not a public body, but documents are subject to FOIA. - Vice Chair Turner explained that the group was created to allow open dialogue among stakeholders, including Dominion, data centers, and the community. He emphasized that the group is not a decision-making body but aims to surface relevant facts. - Commissioner Banks requested a briefing on substation design options and their appropriateness for different situations. Staff agreed to prepare such a briefing. - Commissioner Myers asked for earlier notification of community meetings related to substation applications. She also suggested strengthening the commission permit process for substations to give the county more leverage. Planning Commission Decision Making Process and Recommendations - Planning Commission Chair Kears discussed the distinct roles of the Planning Commission and the Board of Supervisors. He noted that the Planning Commission focuses on land use and zoning, while the Board considers broader political implications. He emphasized that the Planning Commission often makes significant changes to applications but that these changes are not always fully reflected in staff reports to the Board. - Commissioner Miller echoed that the Planning Commission's role is to