Leesburg Economic Development Commission Meeting - April 1, 2026

The Leesburg Economic Development Commission (EDC) held its monthly meeting on April 1, 2026, at the Council Chambers. The meeting featured a presentation from St. John Properties on a proposed flex industrial development, followed by discussion on the need for flex space, the zoning rewrite, and upcoming events.

Consent Calendar

• Motion to allow remote participation: Approved for Commissioner Tony Tallant.
• Adoption of agenda: Moved and seconded; approved unanimously.
• Approval of March 4, 2026 regular meeting minutes: Moved, seconded, approved.
• Approval of March 19, 2026 work session minutes: Moved, seconded, approved.

Public Comments & Testimony

• No petitioners were present.

Discussion Items

• Guest Speaker – St. John Properties: Matthew Holbrook (Regional Partner) and Peyton Stone presented a proposal for a flex industrial development on a vacant site near the intersection of Battlefield Parkway and Route 7 (East Market Street). The site is under contract, currently comp-planned for innovation center use but not zoned for flex industrial. The presentation highlighted:
  • St. John Properties is the largest flex industrial developer in the mid-Atlantic, with 25 million sq. ft. nationwide, including 1.5 million sq. ft. in Loudoun County and 160,000 sq. ft. in Leesburg (Leesburg Tech Park).
  • The proposed development would feature brick-and-glass buildings, low height (16-ft clear), and tenant mix of small businesses, government contractors, and community services (e.g., daycare, coffee shops).
  • Vacancy at Leesburg Tech Park is effectively zero; the company receives about two calls per week for space that does not exist. The need for flex space in Leesburg is critical—the town's flex space vacancy rate is 0.1%.
  • Challenges include: outdated zoning, a long-planned but unbuilt “Cardinal Park Overpass” (flyover) that would consume developable land, and the need for community engagement to overcome the negative perception of “industrial.”
  • The project is in early stages; rezoning application expected in the next few months, with a hopeful 18-month timeline for zoning approval and one year for site plan. Construction could start immediately upon permits, with first buildings delivered in about 18 months.
  • The company emphasized that they build speculatively and own properties long-term, and they requested flexibility in the zoning rewrite to allow easy tenant changes without cumbersome processes.
• Commission Discussion: Members expressed strong support for the project, noting that flex space is essential for retaining and attracting small businesses, generating tax revenue, and reducing the fiscal gap between residential and commercial development. EDC staff (Russell Seymour) noted that the town is losing businesses due to lack of space, and that the project aligns with the Legacy Leesburg comprehensive plan and the strategic economic development plan.
• Staff Report – Russell Seymour:
  • Reminded commissioners of the importance of the zoning rewrite. James David (Director of Community Development) will present at the next meeting.
  • Announced that AARP recognized Leesburg as “the perfect American city for a romantic getaway.”
  • A digital kiosk has been approved for Mervyn Park (near the piano); it will serve as an information center for downtown businesses.
  • The Leesburg Business Awards will be held May 6 at Shutters (second floor). Voting is complete; ties were broken by new member Tara.
  • The annual Board and Commission updates will take place April 30 at Ida Lee.
• Commissioner Comments:
  • Tony Tallant (via remote) praised the presentation and noted the vitality of Leesburg Executive Airport, suggesting it as a community asset.
  • Bob emphasized the need for flex space to keep jobs local and noted that businesses in the Crescent District are being priced out.
  • Kathy highlighted the importance of educating the community about what “flex industrial” really means.
  • Tara (new member) introduced herself as Director of Sales for the Home2 Suites and expressed support for the project.
  • The Chair (Kevin) committed to focusing on the zoning rewrite and preparing questions for James David.

Key Outcomes

• No formal votes were taken on the St. John Properties proposal. The EDC will consider making a recommendation to Town Council and Planning Commission once the project moves forward.
• The EDC will continue to study the zoning rewrite and provide input to James David. Commissioners were asked to submit questions ahead of the next meeting.
• The Leesburg Business Awards are set for May 6, 2026; EDC members will assist with setup and staffing.
• The next EDC meeting (work session) will be held jointly with the Board and Commission updates on April 30, 2026.