Public Meetings - Loudoun County, Virginia

The Loudoun County Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) held a public hearing on May 28, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the Board Room of the Government Center. The board addressed three agenda items: a sign development plan for the Washington Commanders training facility, an appeal of zoning modifications for the Hamilton Safety Center, and an appeal of a temporary special event permit for a baseball training operation. The board deferred two items and ruled on the third. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 3 – RD Baseball Temporary Permit: Multiple residents and business supporters spoke. Appellants Thomas Giddings and others argued the permit was improperly granted, citing traffic, safety, and that the use is not truly temporary. John Benedict, a retired lawyer, stated the permit ignores the BZA's prior ruling and is an abuse of procedure. Denise Rowell, an immediate neighbor, raised fire marshal and health department compliance issues. - Supporters included Dan Olds (co-owner), who described the business's community value and $13,000 in road improvements, and Matt and Judy Livingston, who urged the board to consider the harm of shutting down the program for young athletes. Stacey Caffrey, representing Supervisor Kirshner, stated the permit complies with zoning and should be upheld. James McGinn praised the program's impact on his son. Many supporters stressed that the neighbors' opposition is part of a pattern to block any use. Discussion Items - Item 1 – Ashburn Training Facility Sign Development Plan (LEGI-2025-0056): Staff planner Brian Fish presented the request to increase maximum sign area from 100 sq. ft. to 7,450 sq. ft. for signs on the sports dome, including a 7,450 sq. ft. sign on the top facade. The dome has no roof, and staff determined all signs are wall signs. Applicant Adam Steiner argued the signs are proportional to the 125,000 sq. ft. structure and that aerial visibility (e.g., Google Maps) justifies the rooftop sign. Board members expressed concerns about the size, whether it constitutes off-premise advertising, and the slippery slope of precedent. The applicant requested a deferral to the next meeting to revise the plan. The board unanimously postponed the item to June 25, 2026. - Item 2 – Hamilton Safety Center Appeal (APPL-2026-0001): The appeal challenges a zoning modification for minor changes to a special exception. Appellant Jennifer Cleary requested a continuation to September 24, 2026, because a related appeal (filed May 22) challenges a monopole permit that is connected to this application. The board agreed, noting efficiency, and continued the matter despite staff and property owner being prepared. The chair apologized to those who traveled. - Item 3 – RD Baseball Temporary Special Event Permit Appeal (APPL-2026-0002): Zoning Administrator Teresa Miller detailed the new multi-agency review process (health, fire, building, transportation, natural resources) that led to conditions limiting hours, attendees (30 at any time, 80 per day), and banning amplified sound. She concluded the permit meets the definitions of temporary use and special event. Appellant attorney Thomas Price argued the use is permanent in practice, the facility is already operating without necessary approvals, and the permit is a subterfuge to bypass the special exception process. Property owner attorney Shane Murphy countered that the permit is temporary (expires Dec 31, 2026) and that the Board of Supervisors will decide on a permanent minor exception in June. Board members debated the temporary nature and the fire marshal's comments about road width and sprinklers, but three members found the zoning administrator's interpretation proper under the code. The board voted 3-1 to uphold the permit and deny the appeal. Key Outcomes - Item 1 (Sign Plan): Deferred to June 25, 2026, at the applicant's request to revise the proposal. - Item 2 (Hamilton Safety Center): Deferred to September 24, 2026, to consolidate with a related appeal. - Item 3 (RD Baseball Permit): Motion to uphold the zoning administrator's decision and deny the appeal passed 3-1 (Forbes, Canonico, Gray in favor; Walker opposed).

This meeting of the Loudoun County Planning Commission covered four legislative items: a joint LCPS-county service center and storage facility, two utility substations (Golden and Tech Park at Dulles), and a zoning conversion for a data center park. The commission also deferred one item (Adult Detention Center expansion). Voting results included unanimous approvals, a referral to a work session, and a continuation. Public Comments & Testimony - Teresa Goodyear (resident of Hall Yard Court, adjacent to Item 1 site) opposed the proposed LCPS service center and outdoor storage. She raised concerns about noise from backing-up heavy equipment, potential salt/sand runoff into a nearby creek, impacts on property values and quality of life, and questioned why the facility could not be sited further from homes. She spoke for three minutes. Discussion Items 1. LEGI-2023-0115 – Joint LCPS-COL Central Loudoun Service Center and Storage (Leesburg) Staff (Brianna Smith) presented a special exception application for a public service center with outdoor storage, including a 3,000-square-foot expansion of an existing small engine repair shop and modifications to perimeter buffering. The site is a 13-acre portion of the county government support center. Two outstanding issues were noted: stormwater mitigation (still under discussion) and SPEX limits delineation (resolved). Staff supported approval as conditioned. The applicant (Jefferson Miller, LCPS; Chris Myers, Urban) emphasized the need for a centralized inclement weather facility, described salt containment via a three-wall building and underground storage, and noted a 430-foot preserved buffer to the nearest residential subdivision. Commissioners discussed noise standards (55 dB at the property line), frequency of inclement weather mobilization (13 days in 2026), and the adequacy of the buffer. A community meeting was held in late 2024 with no attendance. A motion to approve (subject to May 18, 2026 conditions) passed 9-0. 2. LEGI-2025-0012 – Golden Substation (Sterling) Staff (Kristian Maldonado) presented a commission permit and special exceptions for a hybrid air/gas-insulated utility substation with a 20-foot screen wall, reduced parking (1 space), and elimination of the type C buffer along the northern boundary. The site is near the W&OD Trail, Route 28, and planned data centers. Staff identified enhanced landscaping as a key issue. The applicant (Jack Story, Duberry; Kristen McDonald, Dominion) explained the substation is part of a regional reliability loop (Aspen–Golden–Mars) and offered 97,000 square feet of pollinator meadow and additional planting along the trail. Commissioners raised concerns about the 20-foot concrete wall’s visual impact, requesting alternative materials, berming, or decorative mesh. A substitute motion (by Commissioner Myers) to send the item to a future work session for further design and mitigation discussion passed 9-0. 3. LEGI-2025-0007 – Tech Park at Dulles Substation (Dulles) Staff (Darby Metcalf) presented a commission permit and special exceptions for a substation in the General Industry zone, south of Old Ox Road. The proposal includes a 12-foot screening wall, right-of-way reservations for West Perimeter Road, and 47,400 square feet of reforestation. The applicant (Tony Calabries, DLA) argued the substation will be largely invisible from public roads due to setbacks (over 800 feet from Old Ox Road) and existing berms/ponds. No public comments were received. Commissioners noted the application’s straightforward nature and supported approval. The motion (by Vice Chair Moderati) to approve the commission permit and forward the special exceptions with a recommendation of approval passed 9-0. 4. LEGI-2024-0056 – Dulles Technology Park (Sterling) Staff (Matthew Kessler) presented a zoning conversion (ZMAP) to rezone 37.24 acres from PDIP (1972 ordinance) to IP (current ordinance) for up to 979,055 square feet of data center use. The site is within the Route 28 taxing district. Because the application was accepted prior to March 18, 2025 (when the county adopted a special exception requirement for new data centers), it is grandfathered – no SPEX is needed. However, the applicant included a specific development plan (CDP), triggering additional review requirements under the zoning ordinance (Factor 4). Staff noted the lack of a traffic impact study and requested more detail on noise, screening, phasing, and building height. The applicant (Ben Wales, Kirrata) agreed to reduce the maximum building height from 100 feet to 70 feet, committed to a two-story design, and is working with staff on a traffic study. Commissioners discussed the split between the data center and a separate substation application (planned for later). A motion to refer the item to a future work session for additional information passed 9-0. Key Outcomes - Item 1 (LCPS Service Center): Approved 9-0 with conditions of approval (May 18, 2026). - Item 2 (Golden Substation): Referred to a Planning Commission work session (9-0) for further review of wall design, landscaping, and mitigation. - Item 3 (Tech Park at Dulles Substation): Commission permit approved 9-0; special exceptions forwarded to the Board of Supervisors with a recommendation of approval. - Item 4 (Dulles Technology Park): Referred to a Planning Commission work session (9-0) to obtain a traffic study, building height commitment (70 feet), and other details. - Item 5 (Adult Detention Center Expansion): Deferred to a later date. - No other public hearing items were heard; the next meeting (June work session) was canceled due to lack of items.

Chair At-Large Phyllis J. Randall delivered the annual State of the County address on May 21, 2026, at the Loudoun County Government Center. The event featured a video presentation, the national anthem by Ben Curtis, a performance by the Loudoun Symphony Orchestra Brass Quintet, and the Pledge of Allegiance led by Nicholas Krukowski. The address, themed "Loudoun's America's Story" in celebration of the nation's 250th anniversary, highlighted the county's economic strength, housing initiatives, historical contributions, and community resilience. Chair Randall's Address - Housing and Attainable Housing: The county increased funding for attainable housing from approximately $1 million in 2016 to $9 million. The Department of Housing and Community Development was established, a full penny per $100 of assessed value was allocated to housing portfolios, building permit fees were waived for nonprofit and faith-based developers, and cigarette tax revenue was dedicated to down payment assistance. The county secured over $650 million in additional investment from partners, resulting in 19 projects with over 2,000 attainable units (completed or in development), 1,600 of which are rental units (27% at or below 50% of area median income), with another 500 in the concept stage. - Economic Development: In 2025, Loudoun saw $2 billion in new commercial investment and over 8,000 economic wins across aerospace, advanced manufacturing, and agriculture. The unemployment rate stands at 3.2%, with employment forecast to grow 25% between 2025 and 2050. The number of county-based businesses increased by 36% over 10 years to nearly 15,000. The Launch Loudoun initiative supported 249 women-owned and minority-owned businesses in 2025. - Transit-Oriented Development: On April 20, 2026, ground was broken on Ravana, a transit-oriented development along the Silver Line Metro Corridor. It will include 3.5 million square feet of Class A office space, 463,000 square feet of commercial space, 2,700 residential units, a 500-room hotel, a performing arts venue, and public parks. - Tourism and Agriculture: Visitor spending increased 9% in 2024 to nearly $5 billion, making Loudoun the top generator of visitor spending in Virginia. Loudoun ranks first in honey production, cut flower sales, and Asian and Hispanic farmers. The number of farms in rural areas grew by 6%. The county hosted the U.S. Equestrian Open Final International and Fall Horse Trial with a record $200,000 purse. - Historical Contributions: Loudoun contributed more soldiers to the Revolutionary War than any other Virginia locality. The county served as the breadbasket for the Continental Army and temporarily held the Declaration of Independence in 1814. African American soldiers from Loudoun fought in the war, including Daniel Coleman, a free Black man whose pension application remains in the courthouse. The story of Frederick Douglass High School (1941–1968) was highlighted: Black parents raised $4,000 to purchase land, hired attorney Charles Hamilton Houston, and sold the land to the county for $1 to secure funding for the school. - Demographics and Finances: Loudoun now has nearly 500,000 residents, a median household income over $177,000, and per capita income over $71,000. The real estate tax rate was reduced from $1.135 per $100 of assessed value in 2016 to $0.805, and it will remain unchanged for 2027. The car tax rate was reduced to $3.09 for 2026 and will drop to $2.94 in 2027. County employee salaries meet or exceed those in neighboring jurisdictions. Fiscal reserves exceed 15% of operating revenues, and all three major credit rating agencies reaffirmed AAA bond ratings. - Federal Policy Impacts: Chair Randall noted that federal policy changes are already negatively affecting local finances. Budget growth was restrained from 11% in FY 2026 to 9% in FY 2027, with a target of 5% year-over-year growth. The county will work with the Chamber of Commerce to support small businesses. - Recognition of Community Leaders: Chair Randall thanked the Loudoun Chamber of Commerce (five-star accreditation), the Daughters of the American Revolution chapters, local historians, former Frederick Douglass High School students, veterans, and her staff. She also acknowledged Miss Virginia 2025, Madison Whitbeck, a Loudoun native who advocates for arts education. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken. The address served as a report on the county's progress and outlined ongoing commitments to attainable housing, economic diversification, fiscal restraint, and historical preservation. The county will continue to manage budget growth toward 5% annually and monitor federal policy impacts.

The Loudoun County Board of Supervisors held a lengthy business meeting on May 19, 2026, addressing a broad agenda that included consent items, ceremonial resolutions, public comments, reconsideration of the Western Loudoun Rural Uses and Standards (WALRUS) motions, multiple substation applications, a project labor agreement pilot, and human services nonprofit grants. The meeting featured extensive debate on public safety, grid reliability, and rural economic viability, with several votes taken throughout the evening. Consent Calendar - Approved en bloc: proclamations for Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Jewish American Heritage Month, Mental Health Awareness Month, resolutions honoring Jeff Fletcher, Lightridge High School Marching Storm, and basketball players Solomon Ball, Aiden Caulker, and Max Brown. - Contract renewals for IT consulting, intersection improvement design, transit system operation, AT&T equipment, compressed natural gas fuel card, and communications commission bylaws revisions. - Advisory Plans Examiner Board and Facilities Standards Manual Public Review Committee bylaws amendments. - Appointments confirmations, administrative items report, naming of Dulles South Community Park as Light Ridge Park, speed management studies in Philomont and St. Louis, inclusion of electric transmission line information on land use reports, Eastern Gas Transmission Leesburg Compressor Station, and NOVEC-Deimos Substation (remanded to planning commission). - Items 11 (Valley Commerce Center) and 16 (Juneteenth celebration) were deferred to the June 2, 2026 business meeting. - Item 2B was initially pulled but later added back after the speaker clarified she wished to speak on a different matter. - Item 12 (Quantum Park) was pulled from consent due to a speaker; later approved to defer to October 20, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - Mike Dempsey (Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters) expressed support for the PLA pilot, stating it would put Loudoun residents to work and hold contractors accountable. - Madeline Skinner (village resident and wine grower) urged funding for speed management and criticized unlimited events at wineries, citing safety and neighbor impacts. - Joe May (former delegate) urged deferral of the Aspen substation, calling for early county involvement in PJM and SCC processes and competition among utilities. - Mara Wash Copeland spoke against unlimited events on the mountainside, emphasizing public safety and soil erosion. - Gary Frankenfield (Regency at Belmont HOA) opposed the Aspen substation, alleging Dominion's feasibility studies were biased and requesting independent analysis. - Mary Ann Mueller (Lansdowne resident) opposed the substation, citing lack of transparency and negative impacts on Route 7 gateway. - Victor Block (Loudoun Valley Estates) argued Dominion manufactured a crisis through private data center contracts and urged deferral. - Sapna Hinsinski (Legacy Farms) requested $560,000 to fund the gap for human services nonprofits scoring 75 or higher. - Woody Turner (resident) advised deferral of Aspen substation, citing flaws and Dominion's poor track record. - Brian Turner (Loudoun Coalition of HOAs) requested deferral, creation of a county energy department, and industry collaboration. - Greg Pierio (Trailside HOA) described negative impacts from the Vantage 2 data center, including noise and health issues. - Jim Bingle (Piedmont Environmental Council) opposed unlimited events in the MOD and supported a 50-foot setback. - John Ellis (Savor Loudoun) urged tiered regulations for events and opposed caps that don't address safety. - Kathleen Schwab (Kincaid Forest resident) said she received no notice of Aspen substation and urged deferral. - Laura Smith (Loudoun Therapeutic Riding Program) requested funding for the grant gap. - Nancy Delisio (868 Estate Vineyards) opposed motion 20, arguing it would harm small businesses and agritourism. - Philip Emanuel (resident) urged deferral of Aspen and Barrister, calling for a comprehensive plan. - Michelle Emanuel read a letter from Sue Manch (Loudoun Transmission Line Alliance) requesting deferral and county participation in PJM. - Georgianne Oberman supported motion 20, arguing state law protects usual and customary activities. - Kate Zurschmeid (Great Country Farms) opposed limiting events, citing their role in farm survival. - Stephen Fortier (Domain 48 Vineyards) argued event caps are not evidence-based and duplicate state regulations. - Donald Walker (longtime resident) encouraged support for small businesses and opposed costly special exceptions. - Lacey Huber (Stone Tower Winery) opposed motion 20, supporting motion 57 for consistency and opposing MOD minor special exception. - Mary O'Connor (Unison resident) opposed Valley Commerce Center, citing intensity and lack of alternatives. - Bill Hatch (farmer) supported allowing agriculture and value-added processing in the MOD. - Anne Fortin (Claro Vineyard) opposed restrictions, noting her safe operations and economic contributions. - Ted Tidmore (Bear Chase Brewing) urged no on all three reconsiderations, highlighting seasonal business realities. - George Davies (Creating Foundations for Hope) requested $560,000 to fund the human services grant gap. - Min Pack (resident) cited Consumer Reports investigation on data centers, urging deferral of Aspen and Barrister. - Maratess (resident) urged board to follow the will of the people, not Dominion. - John Harman (surely contracting) opposed PLA on Route 15, stating it would reduce competition and increase costs. - Ben Young (Virginia Coalition for Fair Contracting) cited RAND study showing PLAs increase costs by 21%. - Carl Eager (Kincaid Forest HOA) criticized lack of transparency on Aspen substation and urged deferral. - James Russell (resident) condemned hate crimes and data center expansion, linking to geopolitical issues. - Sarah Hussein Bazaar (resident) expressed concerns about data centers and criticized policies in Gaza and Lebanon. Discussion Items - Reconsideration of WALRUS Motions: The board debated three motions. Motion 20 (unlimited events at farm wineries) was reconsidered and then denied 5-4, allowing staff to develop use-specific standards under motion 32. Motion 57 (consistency of standards) was reconsidered and the second paragraph removed, then approved as a scrivener's motion 9-0. A motion to explore a minor special exception for non-residential covered activities in the MOD's sensitive areas was approved 7-2. - Aspen Substation (LEGI-2024-0038): After extensive discussion with Dominion representatives about grid reliability, the board initially approved the substation 5-4, but a motion to reconsider passed. A subsequent motion to deny failed 4-4-1, and the board deferred the final decision to the next business meeting, with a closed session requested to discuss legal sufficiency of denial findings. - Barrister Substation (LEGI-2025-0010): The commission permit was approved 9-0, and the special exceptions were deferred to July 7, 2026, to allow further review of design options received late. - Project Labor Agreement Pilot: The board split the motion. Both the Route 15 widening and adult detention center expansion projects were approved 7-2 to proceed with PLA pilots, with reporting every six months. - Human Services Nonprofit Grants: The board approved $3,053,000 in grants and allocated an additional $560,187 from fund balance to fund all organizations scoring 75 or higher, passed 9-0. Staff was directed to review the funding policy for FY28. - Speed Management Studies: The Philomont and St. Louis studies were approved as part of the consent agenda, with calls for midterm actions. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda approved as amended, with items 11 and 16 deferred to June 2, and Quantum Park deferred to October 20. - Motion 20 (unlimited events) denied 5-4 after reconsideration; staff will use motion 32 to develop use-specific standards. - Motion 57 (consistency) approved 9-0 as a scrivener's motion, removing the second paragraph. - MOD minor special exception exploration approved 7-2. - Aspen Substation initially approved 5-4, but after reconsideration, a motion to deny failed 4-4-1; final decision deferred to next meeting with closed session. - Barrister Substation commission permit approved 9-0; special exceptions deferred to July 7. - Project Labor Agreement pilot for Route 15 and ADC expansion approved 7-2. - Human Services Nonprofit Grants approved with $560,187 additional funding, 9-0. - Nominations: Amanda Baulig to ADWAB (qualified nonprofit housing); Tony Stafford to Economic Development Authority (at-large). - Board comments included disclosures for various land use applications, condolences for the San Diego mosque shooting, and a call for a county energy department.

The Transit Advisory Board (TAB) held its regular business meeting on May 14, 2026, at 7:00 PM at the Transit & Commuter Services Office in Leesburg, Virginia. The meeting covered approvals of prior minutes and bylaws, staff updates on ridership and upcoming service changes, discussion of board vacancies, and rider requests for expanded service. Consent Calendar - Approval of March 11, 2026 Business Meeting Minutes: A motion by Member Fred Shwaery, seconded by Vice-Chair Vlad Ovchynnikov, was approved unanimously. - Approval of Bylaws Amendment for Virtual Meetings: A motion to adopt the revised TAB bylaws to allow all-virtual meetings was made and seconded, then approved unanimously. This is an annual requirement under the new bylaws. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the meeting. Discussion Items - Ridership and Service Updates (Stephen Pairo): Staff reported that ridership is recovering from the federal appropriations lapse and typical winter decline, with numbers approaching last summer’s levels. Key July 1, 2026 service changes include: - Leesburg–Washington, DC Direct Commuter Bus: An I-66 Inside the Beltway Commuter Choice grant funded one direct trip, but staff reorganized schedules to create three new morning direct trips from Leesburg to DC and one afternoon return trip. A bus previously serving Harmony–Leesburg–Gateway was changed to direct, providing a 10-minute faster trip for Harmony riders. - Leesburg Microtransit Expansion: Weekend service will begin July 1, 2026 (7 AM–7 PM), and the service zone will expand to include the Wegmans area on Russell Branch. - Sterling Microtransit Pilot: Launching July 1, 2026, with four buses operating Monday–Friday 6 AM–8 PM and weekends 8 AM–10 PM. The zone covers Sugarland, Route 7, Kincora, Innovation Metro (disconnected island), and extending east to the Fairfax County line. - Marketing and Awards: Staff will receive two awards at the Virginia Transit Association conference: one for the travel training program and one for the highest year-over-year ridership growth among Virginia transit agencies. Marketing for July 1 changes will begin after the Commonwealth Transportation Board vote on June 18. - Board Vacancies: Five vacancies exist: Broad Run and Sterling district seats, plus Chamber of Commerce, Economic Development Advisory Commission, and Human Services Agency representatives. Staff has emailed inquiries but received no response; members were encouraged to contact supervisors to fill vacancies. - Rider Requests and Concerns: - New Board Member Kevin (previously a public commenter) requested more weekend bus service, specifically at least one bus from the transfer station on weekends. - Vice-Chair Ovchynnikov echoed the need for more weekend service and noted that input from TAB will be included in an upcoming consultant study on transit needs. - Member Fred Shwaery requested information on Senior SmarTrip card distribution events to share with veterans’ organizations. Staff reported over 200 cards issued (approaching 300) and upcoming events at libraries and the Leesburg Senior Center. - Discussion on Long-Haul Commuter Services: Ridership on pilot services from Frederick County, MD, and Prince William County, VA, remains very low. Challenges include competition from free parking, tolls, and dispersed employment centers. - Driverless Taxis: A brief discussion concluded that the technology and regulatory environment are not yet impacting local transit operations. Key Outcomes - Approved the March 11, 2026 meeting minutes and the bylaws amendment for virtual meetings. - Staff noted that July 1 service changes will proceed, with marketing to begin after June 18. - Next meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, July 8, 2026, as an all-virtual meeting. A WebEx link will be provided. - Meeting adjourned at approximately 7:58 PM on a motion by Member Shwaery, seconded by Member Shah.

The Loudoun County Planning Commission held a work session on May 14, 2026, to consider one legislative application (Tuscarora Land Bay 4) and to brief on upcoming public hearing items. The meeting began with the approval of the March 12, 2026 work session minutes and disclosure of commissioner meetings with applicants and residents. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The minutes from the March 12, 2026 work session were approved by a vote of 7-0-1 with Commissioner Frank absent and Commissioner Banks abstaining. Discussion Items - Tuscarora Land Bay 4 (LEGI-2025-0020, SPEX-2025-0036): A work session item presented by staff (Tess Lynch, Department of Planning and Zoning). The applicant (Department of General Services) proposes a government building with office and warehousing on a 15-acre site near residential neighborhoods. Staff reported 9 public comments in opposition. Since the public hearing, the applicant updated the proposal to include: enhanced facade with brick and canopies, increased EV charging from 2 to 20 spaces, a 1,000 sq ft community meeting room, solar-ready roof, delivery hours limited to 7 a.m. – 6 p.m. Monday–Friday (excluding emergencies), truck entry restricted to one entrance near Cross Trail Boulevard, removal of 9 parallel parking spaces on Natchez Drive and replacement with W&OD trailhead parking, upgrade from chain-link to wood board-on-board fencing, 6-foot berm along Natchez Drive, and improved landscape buffers. Staff recommended approval. - Commissioner Discussion: Multiple commissioners raised concerns: - Commissioner Myers argued the building does not meet the definition of civic/public use, that delivery hours conflict with commuter traffic, and that the site should have been used for attainable housing. He also noted the lack of evening/weekend hours for community use and lighting exceptions. - Commissioner Jasper inquired about the site selection process and whether attainable housing was considered; applicant responded that the Board of Supervisors directed this use after LCPS declined the site. - Commissioner Combs and Commissioner Frank argued the proffer allows county use and the facility is less intrusive than a school. Commissioner Frank requested limiting daily truck deliveries and suggested adding a fence around the adjacent tot lot. - Vice Chair Moderati and Chair Kirch supported the application, citing the applicant's community engagement and the reduction in traffic impact. - Commissioner Miller and Commissioner Jasper opposed on compatibility grounds. - Motion: Commissioner Barnes moved to forward the application to the Board of Supervisors with a recommendation of approval, subject to conditions dated May 1, 2026. The motion passed 6–3, with Commissioners Jasper, Miller, and Myers opposed. - Briefing of May 26, 2026 Public Hearing Items: Staff previewed five agenda items (one deferred). Key topics included: - LCPS Public Service Center: A special exception for a small-engine repair facility, outdoor storage, and salt/sand containment near Tavistock Farms. Commissioners asked about runoff containment and buffer impacts. - Golden Substation (Paragon Park): A special exception for a utility substation with a 20-foot screen wall and requests to modify northern buffers. Commissioners asked about the square footage of lost greenspace. - Tech Park at Dulles Substation: An air-insulated substation near the airport with buffer modifications. - Dulles Technology Park: A zoning conversion to the IP district to allow three data center buildings. Commissioners questioned the absence of an on-site substation, building heights, and whether the conversion effectively grandfathers data centers without a special exception. Staff noted that future staff reports will include a one-mile map of substations and transmission lines. Key Outcomes - Vote on Tuscarora Land Bay 4: Forwarded to the Board of Supervisors with a recommendation of approval (6–3). - Agenda Management: Staff noted that the June and July public hearings will have 7–8 items each. A potential extra hearing on August 25, 2026 is being considered to avoid late sessions. - Administrative Items: The commission’s annual report will be presented to TLUC on June 17, 2026. A joint meeting with the Board of Supervisors is scheduled for June 30, 2026; commissioners were asked to submit discussion topics by the following Wednesday. The meeting adjourned after the briefing.

The Board of Supervisors reconvened on May 13, 2026, following the public hearing, to continue the business meeting originally held on May 5, 2026. The only item of business was a closed session to discuss collective bargaining negotiations. The meeting was brief and no substantive public comments or other agenda items were addressed. Closed Session - Chair Randall called the meeting to order and moved the Board to recess into closed session pursuant to Sections 2.2-3711(A)(8) and (A)(29) of the Code of Virginia, to consult with legal counsel on collective bargaining negotiations. The motion passed with a vote of 5-0-4, with four supervisors absent (Kirchner, Glass, Brixman, and Croney). - Upon returning, a motion was made to adjourn the closed session and reconvene the public meeting. The motion also directed that the minutes reflect no formal action was taken in closed session and that a resolution certifying the closed session be adopted. The motion was approved. Key Outcomes - The Board entered and later exited closed session regarding collective bargaining negotiations. - No formal action was taken during the closed session. - The meeting adjourned immediately after the certification vote.

The Loudoun County Board of Supervisors held a public hearing on May 13, 2026, to consider five consolidated agenda items and two individual land use applications. The hearing opened with a procedural debate over whether to postpone reconsideration motions from the May 4, 2026 special board meeting until May 19, 2026, due to two absent supervisors. The board voted 4-3 to postpone the motions. Following that, the board approved the consolidated items, deliberated on the SDC Ashburn I special exception and the Barrister substation applications, and forwarded both to future business meetings. Consent Calendar - Item 1 (Erosion and Stormwater Management Amendments): Approved motion 2B as presented, adopting amendments to Chapter 1096 of the Codified Ordinances. Passed 7-0-2 (Supervisors Kirschner and Glass absent). - Item 2 (Repeal of Dulles Town Center Community Development Authority): Approved motion 2B to repeal Chapter 260, finalizing the earlier dissolution of the CDA. Passed 7-0-2. Supervisor Sainz noted 18% of people shop online and emphasized the importance of keeping the mall as a community asset. - Item 3 (Kincora Fire Station Easement Conveyance to Loudoun Water): Approved motion 2B for the conveyance of easements within PIN 042-49-0209-00. Passed 7-0-2. - Item 4 (Goshen Corner Park Water Main Easement Conveyance to Loudoun Water): Approved motion 2B for conveyance of a 20-foot easement within PIN 248176330. Passed 7-0-2. - Item 5 (New Bluemont Agricultural and Forestal District Withdrawal): Approved motion 2B for ALEGI-2025-0013, withdrawing land owned by Thomas L. and Mary F. Francis. Passed 7-0-2. Public Comments & Testimony - Tia Ehrman (Piedmont Environmental Council): Spoke on Item 6 (SDC Ashburn I). She expressed opposition to the data center expansion, citing unanswered questions about cooling mechanisms, generator tiers, and energy/water impacts. She requested generator specifications in proffers and a commitment against non-emergency generator use, and urged the board to oppose continued expansions. - Barry Wiseman (remote): Attempted to speak on Item 7 about a road safety issue on Route 650 (Oatlands Road). Chair Randall ruled the comment out of order because it was not related to the agenda item, and suggested he address it at the May 19 business meeting. Discussion Items - Item 6 – LEGI-2025-0015, SDC Ashburn I (Special Exception SPEX-2025-0031): Staff presented a request to increase the building footprint by approximately 800–1,000 square feet (about the size of a two-bedroom apartment) for Building D, which extends beyond the approved rezoning boundary. The applicant, SDC, explained that the building was removed from the site plan to close bonds, and redesigning to avoid the encroachment was impossible due to fire code setbacks from adjacent buildings. The applicant highlighted proffers including low-carbon concrete (30% reduction), EV charging, and bike/pedestrian facilities. Public speaker Tia Ehrman opposed the project. Supervisor Sainz proposed forwarding the application to the June 16, 2026 business meeting, with a request to proffer a Tier 4 backup generator and consider solar panels. The board voted 6-0-1-2 (Supervisor Brixman abstained; Kirschner and Glass absent) to forward it. - Item 7 – LEGI-2025-0010, Barrister Substation (CMPT-2025-0004, SPEX-2025-0021, SPEX-2025-0023): Staff presented a hybrid GIS/AIS substation application by Dominion Energy to serve the Dullesbury data center campus. The substation is in the Urban Transit Center place type, where substations are not anticipated. Dominion agreed to enhanced screening: a 15-foot masonry wall along the future Barrister Street and 12-foot walls elsewhere, plus enhanced buffers and tree conservation. Multiple supervisors criticized Dominion's refusal to consider alternative wall designs or materials beyond three standard colors, citing the need for better aesthetics as many more substations are expected. Supervisor Brixman announced she would vote no. The board voted 6-1-2 (Brixman opposed; Kirschner and Glass absent) to forward the application to the May 19, 2026 business meeting for action. Key Outcomes - Procedural motion: The board voted 4-3 to suspend Rule X of the Board Rules of Order, allowing motions to reconsider actions from the May 4, 2026 special board meeting to be brought at the May 19, 2026 special board meeting instead of the current meeting. - Consolidated agenda items 1–5: All approved unanimously (7-0-2) with two supervisors absent. - Item 6 (SDC Ashburn I): Forwarded to the June 16, 2026 Board of Supervisors Business Meeting for action by a 6-0-1 vote (one abstention, two absent). Supervisor Sainz requested additional proffers for a Tier 4 generator and solar. - Item 7 (Barrister Substation): Forwarded to the May 19, 2026 Board of Supervisors Business Meeting for action by a 6-1 vote (Supervisor Brixman opposed; two absent). Dominion was asked to provide visuals of a hybrid substation and alternative wall designs before that meeting.

This meeting of the Loudoun County Board of Supervisors Finance, Government Operations, and Economic Development Committee, chaired by Chair Briskman, addressed a wide range of topics including federal workforce downsizing impacts, the county's economic development status, water utility updates, volunteer fire and rescue internal controls, nonprofit grant funding, transit contract renewal, and a project labor agreement pilot. The committee adopted a consent agenda with several contract renewals and awards, heard multiple presentations, and voted on action items. Consent Calendar - Items Adopted: The committee approved the consent agenda, which included: Quarterly Report FY2026 Third Quarter Financial Update (Item 5); Contract Renewals for Information Technology Consulting (Item 7), Intersection Improvement Design Services (Item 8), AT&T Equipment and Services (Item 10), and Compressed Natural Gas Fuel Card (Item 11); and Communications Commission 2026 Bylaws Revision (Item 13). A brief discussion on Item 11 clarified the increase in the fuel card authority from $600,000 to $1.3 million was due to extending the contract period and fleet expansion, not solely gas prices. Discussion Items Presentation on Federal Government Downsizing Impacts - Speaker: Dr. Tracy Hadden Lowe, Fellow at Brookings Institution, presented on the DMV Monitor project tracking the regional economy under the second Trump administration. - Key Data: Over 300,000 federal workers have left government nationally. Loudoun County lost 16.5% of its federal jobs in 2025, though private sector job growth partly offset that. The region lost more jobs in 2025 than any other major metro area; unemployment rose at over three times the national rate. Black workers experienced unemployment nearly double that of white workers. Internships declined sharply, and venture capital flow to DMV startups lagged national trends. Residential listings surged, and consumer spending at local businesses dropped. - Positions: Dr. Lowe emphasized the need for regional collaboration and data-driven responses. Chair Randall expressed concern about federal agency relocations and the disproportionate impact on African Americans. Supervisor Umstead asked about gender disparities. Supervisor Laterno questioned the methodology for federal job loss data within Loudoun, noting discrepancies with county data. Dr. Lowe offered to coordinate with staff. Monthly Economic Development Report - Speakers: Buddy Rizer (Economic Development Director) and Jan Kernan (REDC Chair). - Updates: Small Business Week saw 15 business visits; the spring farm tour featured 42 farms. National CPI rose 3.8% year-over-year; consumer sentiment hit a record low. Loudoun's unemployment rate was 3.8% as of March 2026. International business efforts included successful trips to India and participation in Select USA. - Rural Economy: REDC reported that equine and livestock sectors showed stability, but wineries, breweries, and horticulture faced significant strain. Recent frost caused 50–90% grape losses, prompting a request for a state of emergency. Agritourism remains critical. Workforce challenges related to immigration policies were noted. - Discussion: Chair Randall highlighted a 6% gain in farmland, pushing back against narratives of loss. She expressed support for the wine industry's emergency request. Supervisor Umstead asked about the trend of rising unemployment (Loudoun's rate increased 39% year-over-year). Supervisor Saines inquired about international markets and the need for venture funding and entrepreneurship programming. Loudoun Water Annual Update - Speakers: Brian Carnes (General Manager), Mark Peterson, and others from Loudoun Water. - Financial Condition: Triple-A credit rating from all three agencies; $1.2 billion capital spending plan over five years. Rates remain competitive (quarterly bill $300 vs. $344–$442 in neighboring jurisdictions). Major projects include Broadrun Water Reclamation Facility expansion (from 10 to 30 MGD over 10–15 years), Milestone Reservoir (1.25 billion gallon storage, completion spring 2028), and Leesburg JLMA infrastructure. - Cybersecurity: Active threat intelligence and incident response updates. - Data Centers: Mark Peterson explained Loudoun Water's proactive planning, including a reclaim water system that supplies about 12–13% of total water portfolio to data centers. The county's stringent discharge regulations necessitate high-level treatment. - Discussion: Supervisor Saines requested monthly updates on the Sterling Boulevard water main replacement. Supervisor Laterno raised resident complaints about chlorine taste and delays in posting the 2025 water quality report; staff noted flushing season and said the report is forthcoming. Supervisor Laterno also questioned future rate increases; staff indicated rates may drop after the current three-year cycle. Chair Randall praised the board's transparency and professionalism and asked about the impact of a recently passed state faith-based housing bill on water infrastructure; Loudoun Water noted master planning can accommodate growth. Volunteer Fire and Rescue Internal Control Maturity Review - Speakers: Elaine Crawford, Megan Cox, Tiffany McCoy (Cherry Bekaert), Brad Grubb. - Findings: Reviewed seven volunteer fire and rescue companies (Cohort 1). Scores ranged from 90% to 48%. Four companies had strong functioning controls, one moderate, two average. Weakest area was vendor management. Recommendations included formalizing policies, improving documentation, and providing refresher training. - Discussion: Supervisor Umstead noted challenges in recruiting volunteers for accounting roles. Chair Randall asked about enforcement; staff clarified that the board can restrict funding if recommendations are not followed, but there is no history of noncompliance. Action Items Human Services Nonprofit Grant Funding Recommendations (FY2027) - Proposal: Staff recommended awarding $3,958,331 to 42 organizations (38 standard, 4 mini grants) from 56 applications. Eight organizations scoring above 75% threshold were not funded due to budget constraints. Funds align with four areas of need: prevention/self-sufficiency (47%), crisis intervention (29%), long-term support, and improved quality. - Discussion: Chair Randall asked about duplication of services and feedback for unsuccessful applicants. Supervisor Umstead explored definitions of leveraging. Supervisor Saines noted that some applicants had incomplete paperwork despite offered assistance. Chair Randall raised future budget constraints due to slowing commercial tax revenue. County Administrator Hemstreet confirmed the board could use fund balance or roll the gap into next year's budget. - Vote: Motion to recommend approval by Supervisor Saines, seconded; passed 5-0. Contract Renewal: Operation and Maintenance of Combined Transit System - Proposal: Renew contract with Keolis Transit Services LLC for five years (July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2031) at $178.6 million, including provisions for potential transition to in-sourced services. - Discussion: Chair Randall abstained, indicating she plans to propose a shorter (4+1 year) contract at the full board meeting, but lacked cost numbers. She praised recent performance improvements by Keolis. Supervisor Laterno supported the motion, noting the renewal allows flexibility for on-demand service and that the contract can be terminated early for convenience. Staff stated Keolis is willing to hold pricing for a four-year base plus one-year option. - Vote: Motion passed 4-0-1 (Chair Randall abstaining). Project Labor Agreement (PLA) Pilot Updates - Proposal: Staff recommended proceeding with PLAs for two projects: Adult Detention Center (ADC) Phase 3 ($38M) and the combined Route 15 widening ($86M). PLAs would be required in bid documents; contractors must negotiate with the Baltimore-DC Metro Building Trades Council within 60 days of award. Previous attempt on a different project ended in litigation and was abandoned. - Discussion: Chair Randall expressed support for PLAs, especially on vertical projects, and offered a friendly amendment for semi-annual updates (accepted). She noted a prior bridge project using a PLA came in under budget and on time. Supervisor Umstead opposed, citing concerns about increased costs (12-20% studies), reduced competition from non-union contractors, and potential delays, especially for Route 15 which has already faced delays. Supervisor Saines, the motion maker, noted that staff believes the Route 15 project is now on schedule and PLAs do not delay bidding, though post-award negotiations could extend project initiation. Supervisor Briskman also expressed mild concern about Route 15 delays but voted yes. - Vote: Motion to direct staff to proceed with PLA pilots for ADC Phase 3 and Route 15, amended for regular updates, passed 4-1. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda Approved: 5-0 vote. - Human Services Grant Recommendations Approved: 5-0 vote; recommended to full board. - Transit Contract Renewed: 4-0-1 vote (Chair Randall abstaining); recommended to full board. - PLA Pilot Approved: 4-1 vote to proceed with two projects; staff to provide semi-annual updates. - No further action taken on information items; presentations received and discussed. - Meeting was called to order at 10:45 AM and adjourned; timing of adjournment not specified.