Falls Church public meetings in 2025

Arts and Humanities Council of Falls Church

The Falls Church250 Committee unanimously approved a motion to allow Christine Lee Buchholz to join the meeting virtually. The committee also unanimously approved the November 2025 minutes and then adjourned the meeting. No other substantive actions were decided at this meeting.

• Approved virtual participation for Christine Lee Buchholz (unanimous)
• Approved November 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Human Services Advisory Council

The Human Services Advisory Council will hear a homelessness strategic planning effort update and a food emergency update. It will also get input from boards and commissions for the upcoming council retreat and an update on the Community Services Fund grant. Public comments will be accepted before the meeting and read during the session.

• Homelessness Strategic Planning Effort meeting update – Sue Armstrong
• Food emergency update – Dana Jones
• Board and Commission input for Council Retreat – Ripal Patel
• Community Services Fund grant update – Ripal Patel
• Public comment period – Jeff Person, Chair

The council adopted the agenda and approved the previous meeting minutes unanimously. Members voted to move the January 2026 meeting from the 15th to the 13th and to extend the start time to 8:30 PM. No other policy actions were decided at this meeting.

• Agenda adopted (unanimous)
• Minutes approved (unanimous)
• January meeting changed to Jan 13, 6:30‑8:30 PM (unanimous)

Library Board of Trustees

The Falls Church Mary Riley Styles Public Library Board of Trustees meeting on Dec. 17, 2025 will be held in person at the Upper‑Level Floor Conference Room, 120 N Virginia Avenue, and streamed via Microsoft Teams. Board members will consider three documents: the meeting agenda (2025.12.17_LIBRARYBOARDAGENDA.PDF), draft minutes from the November 19, 2025 meeting (2025.11.19_DRAFT_BOARD_MTG_MINUTES.PDF), and a library statistics report (LIBRARY_STATISTICS.PDF). No other agenda items are listed in the provided text.

• Review Library Board Meeting Agenda (2025.12.17_LIBRARYBOARDAGENDA.PDF)
• Review Draft Meeting Minutes from November 19, 2025 (2025.11.19_DRAFT_BOARD_MTG_MINUTES.PDF)
• Review Library Statistics report (LIBRARY_STATISTICS.PDF)

The board discussed a petition to designate a library parking space for electric vehicles and agreed the library is not a suitable location, recommending the request be taken to the City Council. The board also approved the minutes from the October 15, 2025 meeting. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Declined library parking space for electric cars (board agreement)
• Approved October 15, 2025 meeting minutes

City Council Committee: Government Operations

The Government Operations Committee will hold a closed session to discuss and consider performance reviews for the City Manager, City Attorney, and City Clerk. No other agenda items are listed.

• Closed session to discuss performance reviews of City Manager, City Attorney, and City Clerk

The Government Operations Committee voted unanimously to enter a closed session to discuss performance reviews for the City Manager, City Attorney, and City Clerk. It then voted unanimously to reconvene in open session. Finally, it voted unanimously to certify that only exempt public business was addressed in the closed session. No substantive policy decisions were made.

• Approved motion to enter closed session (3 AYE)
• Approved motion to reconvene in open session (3 AYE)
• Approved motion to certify closed‑session compliance (3 AYE)

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals will meet to review a variance application for a residential property. The board will also approve minutes from the November 13, 2025, meeting.

• Variance application V1673-25 for a 14-foot wide second driveway at 906 Madison Lane to access an accessory dwelling unit

The Falls Church Board of Zoning Appeals denied variance application V1673-25 by Frederick T. Barrett III, which sought to allow a second 14-foot driveway to access a proposed accessory dwelling unit at 906 Madison Lane. The board found the applicant did not meet the standards for a variance, with members citing lack of hardship and alternative options. The motion to deny passed 4-1, with Mr. Gresko dissenting. The board also approved the November 13, 2025 meeting minutes and bid farewell to member Kristine Ward.

• Denied variance V1673-25 for second driveway at 906 Madison Lane (4-1)
• Approved November 13, 2025 meeting minutes (4-0-1 abstention)
• Held farewell to BZA member Kristine Ward

Recreation & Parks Advisory Board

The Recreation & Parks Advisory Board will meet to receive a report from the Recreation Director. The board is scheduled to discuss updates regarding park projects.

• Park project updates

The board approved Brendan Kelly's remote participation after a roll‑call vote. The November 12, 2025 meeting minutes were approved, with one member abstaining. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous consent.

• Approved remote participation for Brendan Kelly (motion passed by roll call)
• Approved November 12, 2025 minutes (motion by Bill Ackerman, seconded by Charley O’Hara; all approved, one abstention)
• Adjourned the meeting (motion by Michael Bracken, seconded by Bill Ackerman; all in favor)

Citizens Advisory Committee on Transportation

The Citizens Advisory Committee on Transportation will review updates from the Department of Public Works and the NTC. The committee is scheduled to adopt its 2025 Annual Report and discuss next steps for the Oak Street Elementary School Safety Memo.

• Adoption of CACT 2025 Annual Report
• Discussion of Oak Street Elementary School Safety Memo next steps
• Review of 2025 Transportation Dashboard
• CIP Quarterly Update
• NTC Monthly Update

The Citizens Advisory Committee on Transportation adopted its agenda and approved the November 2025 minutes, each by a 6‑0 vote. The committee also adopted the 2025 draft annual report with a 6‑0 vote. It granted three‑month extensions for the Fowler Street and Poplar Drive Hill working groups to reach consensus. The City Council asked the committee to submit transportation priorities by Jan 21.

• Agenda adopted (6‑0)
• November 2025 minutes approved (6‑0)
• 2025 draft annual report adopted (6‑0)
• Granted three‑month extension for Fowler Street deliberations (vote not recorded)
• Granted three‑month extension for Poplar Drive Hill working group (vote not recorded)

Housing Commission

The Housing Commission will review updates on the Affordable Housing Fund and a Community Needs Assessment RFP. The body will also discuss updates regarding ADUs, Virginia Village, AHP, and CDBG/HOME.

• Affordable Housing Fund discussion
• Community Needs Assessment RFP update
• ADU updates
• Virginia Village updates
• CDBG/HOME updates

The Housing Commission approved the December 9, 2025 meeting minutes after a motion by Jordan and a second by Ben. No other formal actions were taken; discussions on the affordable‑housing budget and a community‑needs‑assessment RFP were informational only. The commission then adjourned the meeting.

• Approved meeting minutes (motion by Jordan, seconded by Ben)
• Adjourned meeting (motion by Sara, seconded by Jordan)

Falls Church250 Committee

The Falls Church250 Committee meeting on December 8, 2025 will approve the November 2025 minutes and consider new business items, including a memo to the City Council and a Soap Box Conversations presentation. The committee will also receive updates on organization outreach and the FC250 video series subcommittee. No formal decisions beyond minutes approval are indicated.

• Approve November 2025 minutes
• Memo to City Council (new business)
• Soap Box Conversations presentation (new business)
• Report back on organization outreach (ongoing business)
• FC250’s video series subcommittee update (ongoing business)

The Falls Church250 Committee unanimously approved a motion allowing Christine Lee Buchholz to join the meeting virtually. The committee also unanimously approved the November 2025 minutes. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously. No final decisions were made on the memo to City Council or the Soap Box Conversations program.

• Approved virtual participation for Christine Lee Buchholz (unanimous)
• Approved November 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

City Council: Council Agenda Meeting with Staff

The Mayor will meet with City Council staff to review the Council schedule and upcoming meeting agendas. The meeting includes a follow-up discussion regarding budget guidance.

• Budget Guidance Follow-Up Discussion

The mayor’s agenda meeting with staff on Dec. 3, 2025 reviewed upcoming council agenda items and scheduling. Topics included FY2027 budget guidance, upcoming council sessions, and various pending resolutions and contracts. No formal actions, approvals, or votes were recorded.

City Council Committee: Appointments

The City Council Appointments Committee will interview candidates for open terms on the Urban Forestry, Historical, Economic Development, and Housing Commissions. The meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at 8 p.m. in the Oak Room at City Hall.

• Interview: Sean O'Brien for Urban Forestry Commission
• Reappointment: Steve Hicks to Historical Commission
• Reappointment: James Coyle to Economic Development Authority
• Reappointment: Meredith Anderson to Housing Commission
• Reappointment: Sara Ferrara to Housing Commission

The Appointments Committee met on Dec. 3, 2025 to interview candidates for several city boards and commissions. Candidates included Sean O’Brien for the Urban Forestry Commission and reappointment requests for Steve Hicks (Historical Commission), James Coyle (Economic Development Authority), Meredith Anderson and Sara Ferrara (Housing Commission). No votes or appointments were recorded; the meeting adjourned at 8:37 p.m.

Board of Equalization

The Falls Church Board of Equalization will hold an organizational meeting. Members will elect a board officer, establish and vote on board procedures, and set the 2025 hearing schedule. The meeting includes introductions, a public comment period, and a discussion segment before adjournment.

• Election of Board of Equalization officer
• Establishment of Board of Equalization procedures
• Vote on Board of Equalization procedures
• Elaboration of the 2025 Board of Equalization hearing schedule

The Board unanimously elected Brian Pendleton as Chairperson and Laura Hodges as Secretary. A unanimous vote adopted the revised Board of Equalization rules and procedures. The board also approved a hearing schedule for January, including dates on Jan 5, 7, 12, 14, 15 and alternate dates on Jan 20‑22.

• Brian Pendleton elected Chairperson (unanimous)
• Laura Hodges elected Secretary (unanimous)
• Adopt revised BOE rules and procedures (unanimous)
• Approve January hearing dates: Jan 5, 7, 12, 14, 15 (approved)
• Approve alternate hearing dates: Jan 20, 21, 22 (approved)
• Set hearing notices to be mailed Dec 11, 2025 (approved)
• No items were tabled

Economic Development Authority

The Falls Church Economic Development Authority will approve the draft minutes from the November 4, 2025 meeting, review a proposed Memorandum of Understanding with Virginia Village, and discuss marketing initiatives including a new logo and upcoming Restaurant Week. The board will also hear business updates, set dates for the 2026 EDA meetings, and accept public comments submitted by December 1.

• Approval of draft minutes from the Nov 4, 2025 EDA meeting
• Review of the Virginia Village Memorandum of Understanding (draft terms)
• Marketing update: general update, logo discussion, Restaurant Week, Winter Wonderland debrief
• Business updates and new openings
• Discussion of 2026 EDA meeting dates and annual notice

The Economic Development Authority board approved the draft minutes from the November 4, 2025 meeting by a 6‑0 vote. The board also unanimously approved the revised "The Little City" logo to meet ADA compliance. No other actions were decided at this meeting.

• Approved Nov 4, 2025 meeting minutes (6‑0)
• Approved revised "The Little City" logo (unanimous)

City Council Committee: Government Operations

The City Council Government Operations Committee will meet to review recruitment statistics. The committee is also scheduled to discuss a council retreat.

• Recruitment Stats
• Council Retreat Discussion

The Government Operations Committee approved electronic participation for Council Member Laura Downs, Council Member Marybeth Connelly, and Council Member Erin Flynn under the City Council’s Policy for Remote Participation. The motions passed with vote counts of 2‑0 for Downs and 3‑0 for Connelly and Flynn. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved electronic participation for Laura Downs (Delaware) – passed 2-0
• Approved electronic participation for Marybeth Connelly (Pennsylvania) – passed 3-0
• Approved electronic participation for Erin Flynn (Falls Church) – passed 3-0

Falls Church250 Committee

The Video Series Subcommittee of the Falls Church250 Committee is meeting to discuss ongoing business. The primary focus is to finalize the themes and schedule for a video series.

• Approval of October 2025 minutes
• Finalization of themes and schedule for Video Series

The subcommittee unanimously approved the October 2025 minutes. It finalized the monthly themes and schedule for the 2026 Falls Church250 video series. The committee decided to offer a $250 honorarium to each speaker, with flexibility for adjustments. Holly Irwin and Callie Hawkins were assigned to contact potential speakers.

• Approved October 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Finalized monthly themes and schedule for 2026 video series
• Decided to offer $250 honorarium to each speaker (adjustable)
• Tasked Holly Irwin and Callie Hawkins to reach out to potential speakers

Environmental Sustainability Council

The Environmental Sustainability Council will vote on letters regarding the Comprehensive Plan Chapter 8 update and the Special Exception process. The body will also receive presentations on tree canopy code changes, the C-PACE program, and the Gordon Road Triangle.

• Vote on ESC letter regarding Comprehensive Plan Chapter 8 Update
• Vote on ESC letter regarding Special Exception Process Memo
• Motion for support of 'Better Walking and Biking to School' letter from Bike Falls Church
• Presentation on Tree Canopy Code Changes
• Presentation on C-PACE Program and Locality Agreements

The council endorsed the Bike Falls Church letter encouraging walking and biking to school. It approved the October meeting minutes. The council recommended that the City Council adopt the proposed tree‑canopy code changes for commercial properties. It also recommended that the City Council adopt the Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (C‑PACE) financing program.

• Endorsed Bike Falls Church letter and authorized ESC to sign (unanimous)
• Approved October ESC meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Recommended City Council adopt tree‑canopy code changes (unanimous)
• Recommended City Council adopt C‑PACE financing program (unanimous, Mike abstained)
• Moved Gordon Road Triangle presentation up the agenda (unanimous)
• Approved ESC comments on Comprehensive Plan Chapter 8 (unanimous)
• Approved ESC letter to City Council on special‑exception green building criteria (unanimous)
• Approved motion to amend agenda for Gordon Road Triangle presentation (unanimous)

Arts and Humanities Council of Falls Church

The Arts and Humanities Council will meet on November 20, 2025 at City Hall to consider several updates. Items include a sign update for the community center gym, the council’s annual report, and ongoing business such as a letter to the EDA, a committee update, and planning for Falls Church Arts Day. No formal decisions are noted in the agenda.

• Community Center Gym Sign Update
• AHC Annual Report
• Letter to EDA on Visit Falls Church website
• FC250 Committee Update
• Falls Church Arts Day Planning Update

Human Services Advisory Council

The Human Services Advisory Council will meet to conduct leadership elections and receive updates on food emergencies and grant timelines. The meeting also includes introductions for Housing and Human Services staff.

• Election for Chair and Vice Chair
• Food emergency update
• Community Services Fund grant timeline
• Housing and Human Services Staff Introduction
• Regional Commission Updates

The agenda and minutes were adopted unanimously. Jeff Person was elected chair and Nicole Newman vice chair, both unanimously approved. The council approved a $25,000 emergency financial assistance allocation for food distribution. The January 15 meeting was extended by 30 minutes.

• Agenda adoption approved unanimously
• Minutes approval approved unanimously
• Jeff Person elected HSAC Chair (unanimously approved)
• Nicole Newman elected HSAC Vice Chair (motion passed)
• Approved $25,000 emergency financial assistance for food distribution
• Extended Jan 15 meeting to 8:30 PM (extra half hour)
• No regional commission updates reported
• Shelter provider remains New Hope Housing

City Council: Council Agenda Meeting with Staff

The Mayor will meet with City Council staff on November 19, 2025 to review the Council schedule and upcoming meeting agendas. The meeting is virtual via Microsoft Teams and is open to the public. Items on the agenda include roll call, electronic participation motions, discussion of the schedule, and adjournment.

• Roll call
• Electronic participation motions
• Discuss council schedule and upcoming meeting agendas
• Adjourn

The Mayor's agenda meeting with staff was called to order by Letty Hardi at 8:34 a.m. on November 19, 2025. Its purpose was to discuss scheduling items for future City Council agenda sessions. The minutes list upcoming reports, readings, and consent items but record no approvals, denials, or other substantive actions.

Library Board of Trustees

The Mary Riley Styles Public Library Board of Trustees will meet on November 19, 2025 at 120 N Virginia Avenue in Falls Church. The agenda PDF, draft minutes from October 15, 2025, and library statistics are linked for the meeting. Specific items to be decided or discussed are not listed in the provided text, so no concrete actions can be identified here.

The Board of Trustees approved the September 17, 2025 meeting minutes with a minor change after a motion by Robert Leopold and second by Steve Morse (Claire McCray abstained). The Board then approved the Legislative Agenda, incorporating Mr. Leopold’s edits, on a motion by Janis Johnson and second by Steve Morse. The meeting was adjourned unanimously at 7:29 p.m. after a motion by Erin Cline and second by Steve Morse.

• Approved September 17, 2025 meeting minutes (minor change) – motion Leopold, second Morse
• Approved Legislative Agenda with Leopold's edits – motion Johnson, second Morse
• Adjourned meeting unanimously at 7:29 p.m. – motion Cline, second Morse

Urban Forestry Commission

The Urban Forestry Commission will approve the October meeting minutes, consider a fine appeal for 624 S. Washington St., and receive staff updates that include a proposed amendment to the Tree Canopy Code. Additional items are a City Council calendar update and other staff information.

• Approval of the October minutes
• Fine appeal for 624 S. Washington St.
• Tree Canopy Code amendment (staff update)
• City Council calendar update
• General staff updates

The Urban Forestry Commission approved the August 2025 meeting minutes by voice vote. Commissioners discussed an appeal of a $15,875 fine for unauthorized tree cutting and agreed to defer deciding the final fine amount. No other actions were taken.

• Approved August 2025 UFC minutes (voice vote)
• Deferred decision on $15,875 fine for unauthorized tree cutting

City Council Committee: Budget & Finance

The Budget & Finance Committee will receive the FY2026 first‑quarter financial report and discuss the FY2027 budget calendar. Members will also talk about commercial and industrial tax matters and plan the December 1 work session. The meeting concludes with any other business.

• FY2026 First Quarter Financial Report
• FY2027 Budget Calendar
• Commercial and Industrial Tax Discussion
• December 1 Work Session Agenda
• Other Business

The Falls Church Budget & Finance Committee met on November 14, 2025. Council members and staff attended and reviewed the agenda items, which included the FY2026 first‑quarter financial report, the FY2027 budget calendar, a commercial and industrial tax discussion, and a December 1 work‑session agenda. No actions, approvals, or votes were recorded. The meeting adjourned at 9:37 a.m.

Falls Church250 Committee

The Falls Church250 Committee will approve the October 2025 meeting minutes and discuss finalizing the themes and schedule for its video series. No other agenda items are listed.

• Approve October 2025 minutes
• Finalize themes and schedule for video series

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals will consider an old‑business variance (V1669‑25) submitted by Homer Perez and Grocery Outlet, Inc. for additional wall signs at 500 S Washington (zoned B‑3). It will also hear three new‑business residential variances—V1670‑25 for a screened porch at 714 Berry Street, V1671‑25 for a screened porch at 203 Buxton Road, and V1672‑25 for a wrap‑around porch at 817 Ridge Place (all zoned R‑1A). The meeting includes approval of the July 10 and September 11, 2025 minutes and a legislative update discussion.

• Variance V1669‑25: increase wall sign quantity to 5 and total sign area to 192 sq ft at 500 S Washington (B‑3)
• Variance V1670‑25: allow 10‑ft side‑yard setback and 27.16 % lot coverage for a screened porch at 714 Berry Street (R‑1A)
• Variance V1671‑25: allow 11 ft 1 in side‑yard setback and 26.5 % lot coverage for a screened porch at 203 Buxton Road (R‑1A)
• Variance V1672‑25: allow 9 ft 7⁄8 in side‑yard setback and 24 ft 5⁄8 in front‑yard setback for a wrap‑around porch at 817 Ridge Place (R‑1A)
• Approval of July 10 and September 11, 2025 meeting minutes

The Board of Zoning Appeals reviewed variance application V1669‑25 submitted by Homer Perez and Grocery Outlet, Inc. for additional wall signage at 500 South Washington Street. Staff presented the proposed sign dimensions and compared them to previous approvals. The board members discussed the location, size, and impact, but the minutes do not record a vote, motion, or final decision. No formal approval, denial, or tabling was documented.

Retirement Board

The Retirement Board will consider actions on the June 30, 2025 actuarial valuation and an asset allocation study for Basic, Police, and OPEB plans. The board will also discuss the 2026 COLA calculation and review proposed city administrative fee recommendations for FY27.

• June 30, 2025 Actuarial Valuation Presentation Summary for Basic, Police, and OPEB
• Asset Allocation Study for Basic, Police, and OPEB
• City Administrative Fee Analysis and Recommendation for FY27
• Amendments to DB, OPEB, and DC Investment Policy Statements (IPS)
• Financial Services RFP Scoping and Evaluation Committee

Aurora House Citizens' Advisory Committee

The Aurora House Citizens' Advisory Committee will meet to approve minutes, receive a group home manager's report, discuss scholarships, and address new business. The public can submit comments until 7:00 p.m. on November 13, 2025.

• Approval of meeting minutes
• Group Home Manager’s Report
• Scholarships discussion
• New Business
• Public comments deadline: November 13, 2025

City Council: Council Agenda Meeting with Staff

The mayor will meet with city council staff to review the council's meeting schedule and upcoming agenda items. The meeting is open to the public and will be held virtually via Microsoft Teams. No formal decisions are listed; the focus is on discussion and coordination of future council business.

• Review council schedule
• Discuss upcoming meeting agendas

The meeting on November 12, 2025 was a Mayor’s agenda meeting with staff to discuss scheduling items for future City Council meetings. No votes, approvals, or other actions were recorded. The minutes list topics that will be considered at upcoming sessions but contain no substantive decisions.

Housing Commission

The Falls Church Housing Commission will review recent housing updates, including accessory dwelling units, Virginia Village, AHP, and CDBG/HOME programs. Commissioners will hear a presentation on the Fairfax Community Needs Assessment from a county Continuum of Care manager. The meeting also includes discussion of the commission's goals and public comments from residents.

• Fairfax Community Needs Assessment presentation by Stephen Knippler
• Discussion of Housing Commission Goals
• Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) updates
• Virginia Village program updates
• CDBG/HOME funding updates

The commission approved its meeting minutes. A motion to hold the FY26 CDBG and HOME funding allocation was moved and passed unanimously (4‑0). The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved meeting minutes (motion by Jordan Hicks, seconded by Sara Ferrera)
• Paused FY26 CDBG and HOME funding allocation (motion by Sara Ferrera, vote 4-0)
• Adjourned meeting (motion by Jordan Hicks, seconded by Sara Ferrera)

Recreation & Parks Advisory Board

The Recreation & Parks Advisory Board will meet to discuss future planning for the Farmers Market. The board will also receive a report on the Comprehensive Plan Chapter 8 Update and park project updates.

• Farmers Market future planning presentation by Jennifere Brady
• Comprehensive Plan Chapter 8 Update
• Park Project Updates

The Recreation & Parks Advisory Board discussed the Farmers Market banner issue, reviewed the director’s report, and provided updates on the Cavalier Trail and Fellows Park projects. No motions to approve or deny items were recorded. The meeting was then adjourned by a motion.

Citizens Advisory Committee on Transportation

The Citizens Advisory Committee on Transportation will adopt the meeting agenda, review prior minutes, and receive reports from the City Council liaison and the NTC. Members will hear presentations on bike stop signs, the Missing Links sidewalk program, and micromobility devices, followed by a discussion of the Oak Street Elementary School safety memo. The committee will also discuss the 2025 CACT Annual Report and vote to elect a new chair.

• Election of chair (action item)
• Discussion of Oak Street Elementary School safety memo next steps
• Bike Falls Church presentation on W&OD stop signs
• Missing Links program and sidewalk repairs update
• Micromobility (shared mobility devices) update

The committee elected Tristan Southard as the new chair with a 7‑0 vote. The agenda and prior meeting minutes were approved unanimously (agenda 6‑0, October 8 minutes 6‑0, October 20 minutes 5‑0‑1). The meeting was extended twice (to 10:00 PM and to 10:15 PM) and adjourned with a 7‑0 vote.

• Adopt agenda (6-0)
• Approve October 8 minutes (6-0)
• Approve October 20 minutes (5-0-1, one abstention)
• Extend meeting to 10:00 PM (7-0)
• Extend meeting to 10:15 PM (7-0)
• Elect Tristan Southard as new CACT chair (7-0)
• Adjourn meeting (7-0)

City Council Committee: Appointments

The Appointments Committee will interview candidates and decide on appointments. It will consider appointing Marguerite Siemer to the Human Services Advisory Council for the terms 03/01/23–02/28/26 and 03/01/26–02/28/29. The committee will also conduct an exit interview for Brian Bowden, who served on the council from March 2022 to September 2025.

• Consider appointment of Marguerite Siemer to Human Services Advisory Council (terms 03/01/23–02/28/26 and 03/01/26–02/28/29)
• Conduct exit interview for Brian Bowden, departing member of Human Services Advisory Council (served March 2022–Sept 2025)

The committee met to interview a new applicant for the Human Services Advisory Council and to conduct an exit interview with a departing member. No appointments, reappointments, or other actions were approved, denied, or tabled.

City Council Committee: Legislative

The Legislative Committee will review updates from the VML conference, NOVA programs, DMV moves, and the Governor's proposed budget. It will discuss preparation for the 2026 General Assembly, including local parking code coordination with Senator Salim and input from boards and commissions. The committee will also set the council adoption schedule for November 17 and 24.

• Governor proposed budget December presentation
• 2026 General Assembly preparation – report board and commission input
• Proposed local parking code legislation – coordination with Senator Salim
• Council adoption schedule – November 17th and 24th
• DMV Moves/SJ28 resolutions updates

The Falls Church Legislative Committee met on November 7, 2025, and reviewed a range of topics including VML conference debrief, NOVA programs, DMV updates, the governor's proposed budget, 2026 General Assembly preparation, and federal workforce funding. No motions were adopted, no votes were taken, and no approvals or denials were recorded. The meeting adjourned at 9:39 a.m.

Economic Development Authority

The Economic Development Authority will approve the draft minutes from the October 7, 2025 meeting and hear public comments submitted by November 3. Staff will give updates on the permitting process consulting, commercial vacancy, and marketing efforts. An information item will present a draft update to Chapter 8 of the City’s Comprehensive Plan covering community facilities, infrastructure, utilities, and public services. Additional business updates and other issues will be discussed.

• Approval of draft Oct 7, 2025 EDA meeting minutes
• Permitting Process Consulting Update
• Draft Update to Chapter 8 of City’s Comprehensive Plan – information item only
• Commercial Vacancy Report
• Marketing Update – October 2025 Economic Development Office Business Update Newsletter

The Economic Development Authority approved the draft minutes from the Oct. 7, 2025 meeting by a 4‑0 vote. No other actions were approved, denied, or tabled. Staff provided updates on permitting, the comprehensive plan draft, vacancy, marketing, and business matters, and discussed upcoming events.

• Approved Oct 7, 2025 meeting minutes (4-0)

Falls Church250 Committee

The Falls Church250 Committee will meet to consider funding for its 250 initiatives and to receive input on City 250 events. The committee will also hear a report on organization outreach and a briefing from the video series subcommittee. No decisions are recorded in the agenda.

• Funding for 250 Initiatives
• FC250 Committee Input for City 250 Events
• Report Back on Organization Outreach
• FC250’s Video Series Subcommittee Brief

The Falls Church250 Committee unanimously approved Todd Hermann's virtual participation, approved the October 2025 minutes, and then unanimously adjourned the meeting. The committee noted the City Council's pending $25,000 allocation for 250 initiatives and discussed ideas for future events.

• Approved virtual participation for Todd Hermann (unanimous)
• Approved October 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved meeting adjournment (unanimous)

Public Utilities Commission

The Falls Church Public Utilities Commission will meet on Oct. 29, 2025. Commissioners will approve the prior meeting minutes, receive public comments, and introduce two new staff members. The agenda includes a discussion of best practices for addressing illegal connections to private lateral sewers, referencing a pilot study from St. Petersburg. The meeting will end with open discussion before adjourning.

• Approve minutes from the previous meeting
• Receive public comments submitted by 4 pm on the meeting day
• Introduce new City Engineer Tahir Benabdi and Senior Sanitary Sewer Engineer Reza Ravandoust
• Discuss best practices for illegal private lateral sewer connections, citing St. Petersburg pilot study
• Open discussion and adjournment

The Public Utility Commission approved the minutes from the July 17, 2025 meeting. No public comments were received. Commissioners discussed goals and stormwater topics but took no further action. The next meeting was scheduled for July 23, 2025.

• Approved minutes from July 17, 2025 meeting
• Scheduled next meeting for July 23, 2025

Falls Church250 Committee

The Video Series Subcommittee is meeting to establish its leadership and operational framework. The group will discuss the schedule and logistics for a video series related to Falls Church250.

• Election of a Chair
• Adoption of a Virtual Participation Agreement
• Determination of schedule and logistics for the video series

The Falls Church250 Committee video series subcommittee approved virtual participation agreements by unanimous vote. The group decided that electing a chair was unnecessary and appointed Holly Irwin as the project lead. They also adopted a monthly video series schedule with specific themes for each month of 2026.

• Approved virtual participation agreements (unanimous)
• Decided not to elect a chair; Holly Irwin designated as lead
• Adopted monthly video series schedule with themes from January to December

City Council: Council Agenda Meeting with Staff

The City Council Mayor will meet with staff to review the council’s meeting schedule and upcoming agenda items. The discussion will focus on coordinating future council meetings and ensuring agenda items are prepared. No formal actions or votes are scheduled.

• Roll call of council members
• Electronic participation motions
• Discussion of council schedule and upcoming meeting agendas
• Adjournment

The October 22, 2025 Mayor’s Agenda Meeting with Staff was held to discuss scheduling items for upcoming City Council sessions. Attendees included Mayor Letty Hardi, council members Marybeth Connelly, Laura Downs, Debora Schantz‑Hiscott, Justine Underhill, and staff members Celeste Heath and Sally Gillette. The meeting reviewed upcoming work sessions, regular‑session agenda items, and upcoming proclamations, but recorded no formal council votes, approvals, or rejections. Therefore, no substantive decisions were made at this meeting.

Environmental Sustainability Council

The Environmental Sustainability Council will hold a public comment period and review several draft initiatives, including the MWCOG Comprehensive Climate Action Plan and the council's 2026 legislative priorities. Members will receive and discuss input on the Operation EarthWatch education task group and the Special Exception process. The meeting also includes updates to the Comprehensive Plan’s Community Building Blocks chapter and the Urban Forestry Commission priorities.

• Public Comment Period – residents may submit comments by 5:00 pm on Oct 16, 2025
• MWCOG Draft Comprehensive Climate Action Plan – public comment session
• Introduction to Operation EarthWatch (Education Task Group) – presentation by Kathy Hite
• ESC Legislative Priorities Draft for 2026 – review and discussion
• Special Exception Process Discussion – led by Matt Cunningham

The council moved the FCCAN 2026 GA Legislative Priorities Letter to the Legislative Priorities agenda item by unanimous motion. The September ESC minutes were approved unanimously. The ESC also approved the 2026 legislative priorities draft, with minor organization and grammatical changes, by unanimous vote (David recused).

• Moved FCCAN 2026 GA Legislative Priorities Letter to agenda (unanimous)
• Approved September ESC minutes (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 legislative priorities with minor edits (unanimous, David recused)

Arts and Humanities Council of Falls Church

The Arts and Humanities Council will meet to review the Outreach Committee Report and discuss plans for World Art Day 2026. The body will also receive an update on FC250.

• Outreach Committee Report
• World Art Day 2026 planning
• FC250 update

The Arts and Humanities Council approved the October 2025 minutes after minor corrections, with a unanimous vote. The council also unanimously approved a motion to adjourn the meeting at 11:04 a.m. No other formal approvals or denials were recorded.

• Approved October 2025 AHC minutes (unanimous)
• Approved motion to adjourn meeting (unanimous)

Human Services Advisory Council

The Human Services Advisory Council will meet on Oct 16, 2025 to review updates to Chapter 8 of the city’s comprehensive plan, receive an update on the ADA Transition Plan, and introduce new housing and human services staff. The council will also consider public comments, approve minutes, and receive regional commission updates.

• Chapter 8 of the City’s comprehensive plan – update presentation
• ADA Transition Plan – update presentation
• Housing and Human Services Staff – introduction of new staff
• Public Comment – comments accepted until Dec 10 2024

The Human Services Advisory Council adopted the agenda with two changes after a motion by Nicole. All members approved the meeting minutes unanimously. The council then adjourned the meeting at 8:10 PM following Nicole’s motion.

• Adopted agenda with two changes (motion by Nicole, approved unanimously)
• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous vote)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:10 PM (motion by Nicole)

Library Board of Trustees

The Falls Church Library Board of Trustees will consider the draft minutes from the September 17, 2025 meeting, a draft 2026 legislative agenda, and recent library statistics. No specific decisions or actions are listed in the agenda excerpt.

The Board voted to allow Robert Leopold to join the meeting electronically, with all present members voting in favor. The Board also approved the minutes from the August 20, 2025 meeting.

• Approved electronic participation by Robert Leopold (unanimous support)
• Approved August 20, 2025 meeting minutes (motion passed)

Urban Forestry Commission

The Falls Church Urban Forestry Commission will receive staff updates, including a proposed resolution (TR25-30) on tree canopy coverage in non‑residential zoning districts, regional tree canopy data, and a spotted lanternfly outreach poster. The commission will also hear a report on the Gordon Road Triangle prepared by the Urban Land Institute TAP. Public comments will be accepted, and the meeting will conclude with any necessary adjournment actions.

• TR25-30: Initiating Resolution – Tree Canopy Coverage Within Non-Residential Zoning Districts
• WMCOG Regional Tree Canopy Subcommittee data presentation
• Spotted lanternfly poster for public outreach
• Public/Private Tree Conservation Forum – Restore NoVa Forests Initiative
• Gordon Road Triangle report by Urban Land Institute TAP

The Urban Forestry Commission approved the August 20, 2025 meeting minutes by voice vote. A motion to move the Tree Canopy Coverage Initiating Resolution (TR25-30) from Staff Updates to Current Business was approved. No other formal actions or votes were recorded at this meeting.

• Approved August 20, 2025 minutes (voice vote)
• Approved motion to move TR25-30 Tree Canopy Initiating Resolution to Current Business

Housing Commission

The Housing Commission will meet to review staff updates on Accessory Dwelling Units and the Virginia Village project, discuss council input on priorities, and review state and local legislation cooperation. The meeting will also cover commission goals and a potential rescheduling of the November meeting.

• Approval of previous meeting minutes
• ADU Updates presented by staff
• Virginia Village Updates presented by staff
• Discussion on Council Input for HC Priorities
• November Meeting Reschedule proposed

The commission approved the meeting minutes. The meeting was adjourned. The November commission meeting was rescheduled for November 12.

• Approved meeting minutes
• Adjourned the meeting
• Rescheduled November meeting to Nov 12

City Council Committee: Legislative

The City Council Legislative Committee is meeting to review proposed legislative positions for the Virginia Municipal League. The body will also discuss preparations for the 2026 General Assembly and potential impacts of federal workforce and funding changes.

• Review of Virginia Municipal League proposed legislative positions
• Preparation for the 2026 General Assembly
• Review of 2025 Adopted Legislative Program
• Discussion on federal workforce and funding potential impacts

The committee voted to allow Council member Snyder to join the meeting remotely from his residence for medical reasons. The motion was moved by Ms. Underhill, seconded by Ms. Hiscott, and passed unanimously with a 2-0 vote. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved electronic participation for member Snyder (2-0)

Retirement Board

The Falls Church Retirement Board will approve the virtual trustee attendance and the draft minutes from September 11, 2025. It will receive an annuity options summary chart and an update on the fiduciary insurance project. The board will also be presented with the annual mandatory fiduciary training session. The meeting concludes with any other business and adjournment.

• Approval of virtual trustee attendance (action)
• Review and approval of draft minutes from September 11, 2025 (action)
• Annuity Options Summary Chart presentation (informational)
• Fiduciary Insurance Project update (informational)
• Annual Mandatory Fiduciary Training session (informational)

Recreation & Parks Advisory Board

The Recreation & Parks Advisory Board is holding a community meeting at Cavalier Trail Park. The session focuses on the replacement of playground equipment located on W. Westmoreland Rd.

• Community meeting regarding Cavalier Trail Park playground replacement

The Recreation & Parks Advisory Board discussed replacing the playground equipment at Cavalier Trail Park. Residents shared preferences for swings, mulch ground cover, natural colors, climbing elements, a crosswalk, fencing, lighting, and other features. The board did not vote on or approve any specific plan or contract. No formal decisions were recorded.

City Council Committee: Appointments

The City Council Appointments Committee will interview candidates for the Housing Commission and the Aurora House Citizens’ Advisory Committee. The meeting is scheduled for 8 p.m. on October 8, 2025, at City Hall.

• Interview: Andrew Becker-Bolton for Housing Commission
• Interview: Benjamin Allard for Housing Commission
• Interview: Kirsten Zockowski for Aurora House Citizens’ Advisory Committee
• Meeting Location: Oak Room, City Hall, 300 Park Avenue
• Meeting Date: Wednesday, October 8, 2025

The Appointments Committee met to interview three applicants for two vacant seats on the Housing Commission and one seat on the Aurora House Citizens’ Advisory Committee. No votes or appointment decisions were recorded. The meeting adjourned at 9 p.m.

Citizens Advisory Committee on Transportation

The Citizens Advisory Committee on Transportation will meet virtually to review several transportation‑related information items, including the Vision Zero/Complete Streets initiative, the ADA Transition Plan, and a report on Wilson Boulevard safety improvements. The committee will also discuss next steps for the Oak Street Elementary School safety memo and the 2025 CACT Annual Report. Public comment will be accepted, and the meeting will set the agenda for the November 12 session.

• Information Item: Vision Zero/Complete Streets
• Information Item: ADA Transition Plan
• Information Item: Wilson Boulevard Safety Improvements Report
• Discussion Item: Oak Street Elementary School Safety Memo next steps
• Discussion Item: CACT 2025 Annual Report

The committee adopted its agenda unanimously (5‑0) and approved the August meeting minutes (4‑0). The City administratively approved repaving Gundry Drive and W Annandale Road and adding 5‑foot bike lanes, with work slated for October. CACT voted 4‑0‑1 to give the Fowler Street Working Group an additional three months to reach consensus on light traffic‑calming solutions.

• Agenda adopted (5-0)
• August 13, 2025 minutes approved (4-0)
• City administratively approved repaving Gundry Drive & W Annandale Road and installing bike lanes (no vote recorded)
• CACT voted 4-0-1 to grant the Fowler Street Working Group an extra three months to reach consensus
• CACT voted 5-0 to extend the meeting until 9:30 p.m.

Falls Church250 Committee

The Falls Church250 Committee will consider approval of the September 2025 meeting minutes, receive a report on organization outreach, and discuss a proposed video collaboration between FC250 and FCCTV.

• Approve September 2025 meeting minutes
• Report back on organization outreach
• Discuss FC250 x FCCTV video collaboration

The Falls Church250 Committee unanimously approved virtual attendance for Lapha Havan and Councilmember David Snyder. The September 2025 minutes were also approved without dissent. A new subcommittee was formed to work with FCCTV on a video series, with Jim Coyle, Todd Hermann, Callie Hawkins, and MRSPL staff assigned.

• Approved virtual participation for Lapha Havan and David Snyder (unanimous)
• Approved September 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Established FC250‑FCCTV video collaboration subcommittee (unanimous)
• Assigned Jim Coyle, Todd Hermann, Callie Hawkins, and MRSPL staff to the subcommittee

Economic Development Authority

The Falls Church Economic Development Authority will approve the draft September 10 2025 meeting minutes, discuss permitting, certificate of occupancy and change‑of‑use requirements, and review ordinance matters. It will consider updates such as the final design approval for public parking signs, a marketing update that includes funding for the January 2026 Restaurant Week, and a draft business outreach flyer for a proposed business visit program. Public comments will be heard and the board will receive updates on the dining guide distribution and upcoming community events.

• Approval of draft September 10 2025 EDA meeting minutes
• Discussion of permitting, CO and change‑of‑use process requirements
• Approval of final design for public parking signs
• Marketing update with approval of funds for January 2026 Restaurant Week
• Review of draft business outreach flyer for proposed business visit program

The Economic Development Authority unanimously approved spending up to $25,000 for the January 2026 Restaurant Week. The board also approved the September 10, 2025 meeting minutes by a 7‑0 vote. No other items were formally decided; remaining topics were discussed or referred for further work.

• Approved Sept 10, 2025 EDA meeting minutes (7-0)
• Approved up to $25,000 for January 2026 Restaurant Week (unanimous)

City Council Committee: Budget & Finance

The Falls Church City Council Budget & Finance Committee will meet on October 3, 2025 at City Hall. The committee will review the FY2025 Year End Report, consider the FY2026 Fall Budget Amendment, and discuss the FY2027 Budget Calendar. The meeting will also address any other business raised by members.

• FY2025 Year End Report
• FY2026 Fall Budget Amendment
• FY2027 Budget Calendar
• Other Business

The Budget & Finance Committee voted to allow Council Member Connelly to participate electronically from Ireland. The motion was moved by Ms. Flynn, seconded by Ms. Underhill, and passed with a 2-0 roll‑call vote. Mayor Hardi was absent during the vote. No other substantive actions were recorded.

• Approved electronic participation for Council Member Connelly from Ireland (2-0)

City Council: Council Agenda Meeting with Staff

The City Council will meet with staff to review the upcoming meeting schedule and agendas. The meeting is open to the public and will be held virtually via Microsoft Teams.

• Review of Council schedule and agendas
• Electronic participation motions
• Public comments via email
• Meeting held virtually via Microsoft Teams

The minutes list scheduled meetings, agenda topics, and proclamations but do not record any approvals, denials, or vote counts. No substantive actions were documented.

City Council Committee: Government Operations

The Government Operations Committee will meet to discuss a website update, communications strategy, and strategic planning for a Council retreat. The body will also review contract approvals and the 2026 meeting schedule.

• Website update
• Communications strategy
• Strategic Planning & Council Retreat
• Contract Approvals by City Council
• 2026 Gov Ops Meeting Schedule

The committee met on September 24, 2025, and reviewed agenda items including a website update, communications strategy, strategic planning and council retreat, contract approvals, and the 2026 meeting schedule. No actions were approved, denied, or tabled, and no vote tallies were recorded.

Arts and Humanities Council of Falls Church

The Arts and Humanities Council meeting on September 18, 2025 will consider updates from the Outreach Committee, recommendations for the Visit Falls Church subcommittee, and planning for World Art Day 2026, as well as an overview of its strategic plan. No formal decisions are listed; the items are presented as updates and discussion topics. The meeting runs from 9:30 am to about 11:00 am at City Hall, 300 Park Ave., Dogwood Room A & B, with virtual access via Microsoft Teams.

• Outreach Committee Update
• Subcommittee Recommendations for Visit Falls Church
• World Art Day 2026 planning
• Strategic Plan Overview

Environmental Sustainability Council

The Environmental Sustainability Council will hear updates on solid waste and changes to the EPA Green Power Partnership, review a public notice from the Virginia DEQ about air emissions at Dominion Energy’s Chesterfield Power Station, and consider presentations on shared mobility devices and legislative priorities. New council members will be introduced and the July meeting minutes will be approved. Public comments are accepted through 5 p.m. on September 18, 2025.

• Comment on DEQ Air Public Notice for Dominion Energy – Chesterfield Power Station
• Shared Mobility Devices Presentation – Kurt Lawrence
• Update on Solid Waste
• Memo to ESC – Changes to EPA Green Power Partnership
• ESC Legislative Priorities – Kurt Lawrence

The Environmental Sustainability Council approved the July 2025 meeting minutes with a unanimous vote. The council also approved, without substantive changes, a draft comment to the State Corporation Commission regarding Dominion Energy's proposed power station, also unanimously. No other formal decisions were recorded at this meeting.

• Approved July 2025 ESC minutes (unanimous)
• Approved ESC comment on Dominion Energy power station (unanimous)

Human Services Advisory Council

The Human Services Advisory Council will meet to receive updates on community needs and departmental activities. The session includes reports from the CSB and Housing and Human Services staff.

• Community needs assessment update from Sue Armstrong
• CSB update from Sarah Coughter
• Housing and Human Services Staff update from Dana Jones
• Regional Commission Updates

The Human Services Advisory Council adopted its agenda after a motion by Nicole Newman that was approved by all members. The council approved the July meeting minutes with a correction following Jeff Person’s motion. The meeting was adjourned after Jeff Bowman moved to adjourn, which was approved.

• Adopt agenda (unanimous approval)
• Approve July minutes with correction (unanimous approval)
• Adjourn meeting (unanimous approval)

Library Board of Trustees

The Library Board of Trustees will hold a meeting in person at the Mary Riley Styles Public Library. The agenda includes draft minutes from the August 20, 2025 meeting and library statistics. The meeting will also be accessible online via Microsoft Teams.

• Draft meeting minutes from August 20, 2025
• Library statistics presentation
• In-person and online meeting access via Microsoft Teams

The Library Board unanimously elected Elise Stein as Chair and Claire McCray as Vice Chair. The Board adopted its Bylaws and Rules of Procedure without changes, and approved the procedures for electronic participation and all‑virtual meetings as presented. It also adopted the 2026 calendar‑year meeting schedule and approved the July 16, 2025 meeting minutes with a minor change.

• Elected Elise Stein as Board Chair (unanimous vote)
• Elected Claire McCray as Board Vice Chair (unanimous vote)
• Adopted Bylaws and Rules of Procedure without changes (motion passed)
• Adopted Procedure for Electronic Participation as presented (motion passed)
• Adopted Procedure for All Virtual Meetings as presented (motion passed)
• Adopted 2026 Calendar Year Meeting Schedule (motion passed)
• Approved July 16, 2025 meeting minutes with a minor change (two abstentions)
• No petitions received

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Falls Church Board of Zoning Appeals will review variance application V1669-25 submitted by Homer Perez and Grocery Outlet, Inc., on behalf of April Lane Associates JV‑Tinner Hill, LLC. The request seeks multiple signage allowances for the property at 455 S Maple / 500 S Washington, which is zoned B‑3, General Business District. The board will also approve the July 10 and August 7, 2025 meeting minutes and address any other business.

• Variance application V1669-25 for additional wall, window, and aggregate signs at 455 S Maple / 500 S Washington
• Approval of July 10, 2025 meeting minutes
• Approval of August 7, 2025 meeting minutes
• Other business items as listed on the agenda

The Board of Zoning Appeals reviewed variance application V1669 for additional wall and window signs at 500 South Washington. Staff presented a report outlining the requested sign quantities and areas, and board members asked clarification questions. No vote tally or formal decision was recorded in the minutes.

Retirement Board

The Falls Church Retirement Board will review fourth‑quarter FY25 reports and discuss investment and administrative fee matters. Trustees will consider a recommendation to extend a temporary administrative services contract through June 30 2026. Additional actions include a possible vote on an annuity optional form proposal and approval of a $3,250 fiduciary‑training expense. The meeting will conclude with a consent agenda covering several routine items.

• Investment and Administrative Fee Review – action item
• Pension Administrative Coordination Staffing Recommendation – extension to June 30 2026, action
• Annuity Optional Form Proposal – possible action
• Fiduciary Training expense approval – $3,250, action
• Water Sales Proceed Administrative Manual Review – action

City Council: Council Agenda Meeting with Staff

The City Council will meet with staff to discuss the upcoming meeting schedule and agendas. The meeting is open to the public and will be conducted virtually via Microsoft Teams.

• Discussion of Council schedule and upcoming agendas
• Electronic participation motions
• Public comments submitted to cityclerk@fallschurchva.gov
• Meeting held virtually via Microsoft Teams
• Meeting open to more than two City Council members

The September 10, 2025 Mayor’s Agenda Meeting with Staff was held to discuss scheduling items for future City Council agendas. Attendees included Council members Marybeth Connelly, Laura Downs, Erin Flynn, David Snyder, and Letty Hardi, with staff Celeste Heath, Sally Gillette, and Cindy Mester present. The meeting listed upcoming topics such as the September 15 work session, October budget items, and various code amendment readings, but no actions were approved, denied, or voted on.

Recreation & Parks Advisory Board

The Falls Church Recreation & Parks Advisory Board will hold its regular meeting on September 10, 2025. The board will elect its officers, discuss plans for an October community‑input meeting at Cavalier Trail Playground, and consider a name for a future park on the Fellows property. Old business includes updates on existing park projects.

• Election of board officers
• Planning October community‑input meeting at Cavalier Trail Playground
• Naming of future park on Fellows property
• Park project updates (old business)

The Recreation & Parks Advisory Board adopted the Electronic Participation policy and approved Charley O’Hara’s remote participation. Jenna Schroeder was elected Chair with a 6‑0 vote and Michael Bracken was elected Vice‑Chair with a 6‑0 vote. The May 14, 2025 minutes were approved, with Michael Bracken abstaining.

• Adopted Electronic Participation by Advisory Board Members Policy (unanimous)
• Approved Charley O’Hara’s remote participation (unanimous roll‑call)
• Elected Jenna Schroeder as Chair (6‑0)
• Elected Michael Bracken as Vice‑Chair (6‑0)
• Approved May 14, 2025 minutes (all approved, Michael Bracken abstained)
• Adjourned meeting (motion passed)

City Council Committee: Appointments

The Falls Church City Council Appointments Committee will interview candidates for current vacancies and reappointments on several advisory boards. Two new applicants will be considered for the Advisory Board of Recreation and Parks, which has one expiring term. New applicants will also be considered for the Architectural Advisory Board, and a reappointment request will be reviewed for the Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority.

• New applicant Marcelo Boffelli – Advisory Board of Recreation and Parks (09/01/25 – 08/31/28)
• Exit interview with Lindsay Harris – Fairfax Area Disability Services Board (Oct 2021 – Oct 2024)
• New applicant LaGuardia Myers – Architectural Advisory Board (06/01/25 – 05/31/28)
• New applicant Craig Riegler – Architectural Advisory Board (06/01/23 – 05/31/26)
• Reappointment request: Paul Baldino – Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority (10/01/25 – 09/30/29)

The Appointments Committee interviewed four new applicants and discussed one reappointment request, as well as an exit interview. No votes, approvals, denials, or other formal actions were recorded in the minutes.

Citizens Advisory Committee on Transportation

The Citizens Advisory Committee on Transportation will adopt the meeting agenda and review the August 13, 2025 minutes. It will receive updates from the Department of Public Works and the Northern Virginia Transportation Commission. The committee will discuss the Oak Street Elementary School Safety Memo and the duration of public comment for outside groups. Upcoming topics include a Capital Bikeshare update and a Complete Streets discussion.

• Adoption of meeting agenda (action item)
• Review of August 13, 2025 CACT meeting minutes
• Oak Street Elementary School Safety Memo (action item)
• Capital Bikeshare update
• Complete Streets discussion (committee roundtable)

The Citizens Advisory Committee on Transportation (CACT) approved the Oak Street Elementary School safety memo after edits, with a unanimous 4‑0 vote. The committee also approved the August 13, 2025 meeting minutes (4‑0) and granted the Poplar Drive Hill Working Group an additional three months to reach consensus (4‑0). Additionally, CACT allocated 15 minutes on the November agenda for a Bike Falls Church presentation.

• Approved Oak Street Elementary safety memo with changes (4‑0)
• Approved August 13, 2025 meeting minutes (4‑0)
• Granted Poplar Drive Hill Working Group three more months to reach consensus (4‑0)
• Allocated 15 minutes on November agenda for Bike Falls Church presentation
• Adjourned meeting (4‑0)

Economic Development Authority

The Falls Church Economic Development Authority will approve the draft minutes from the July 9, 2025 meeting and hear public comments. Staff will provide updates on parklet signs, the 2025 Dining Guide, a new marketing/content calendar and CRM software, the FY 2026 budget and funding request, and the acquisition of three Virginia Village buildings. The board will discuss a new BPOL tax rate reduction aimed at business startups, a VA250 update, and recent business openings. The meeting also includes references to the 2025 Community Profile and upcoming agency events.

• Approval of draft July 9, 2025 EDA meeting minutes
• EDA budget and funding request for FY 2026
• Acquisition of three Virginia Village buildings
• BPOL tax rate reduction for business startups (new)
• 2025 Dining Guide update

The Economic Development Authority approved remote participation for board member Alan Brangman by unanimous vote. The board also approved the July 9, 2025 meeting minutes with a 5‑0 vote. A budget amendment adding $75,000 plus $8,000 in miscellaneous expenses ($83,000 total) for FY 2026 was approved unanimously. No other formal votes were taken; remaining items were discussed or noted for future action.

• Approved remote participation for Alan Brangman (unanimous)
• Approved July 9, 2025 meeting minutes (5‑0)
• Approved FY 2026 budget allocation of $83,000 (unanimous)

Housing Commission

The Housing Commission will receive a presentation on homelessness as part of a Community Needs Assessment. The body will also discuss updates regarding Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), Virginia Village, and CDBG/HOME programs.

• Homelessness presentation by guest Sue Armstrong
• ADU updates
• Virginia Village updates
• CDBG/HOME updates
• Housing Commission vacancy discussion

The commission approved the September 9, 2025 minutes after two corrections were made. No other formal votes or decisions were recorded in this meeting.

• Approved meeting minutes (motion by Sara Ferrara, seconded by Jordan Hicks)

Falls Church250 Committee

The committee will review updates on the Falls Church Festival and the FC250 Committee, consider proposals from Jim Coyle, and discuss the VA250 Reading Revolution Week with Fairfax County Public Schools. The agenda also includes routine items such as public comment, approval of July 2025 minutes, and a report on organization outreach. No specific actions or votes are detailed in the agenda.

• Review of Falls Church Festival and FC250 Committee matters
• Consideration of proposals presented by Jim Coyle
• Discussion of VA250 Reading Revolution Week with FCCPS
• Report back on organization outreach (ongoing business)
• Approval of July 2025 meeting minutes

The committee unanimously approved virtual participation for four members. It also unanimously approved the August 2025 minutes and the meeting adjournment. The committee decided to host a table at the Falls Church Festival on September 13, 2025 and will seek volunteers to staff it.

• Approved virtual participation for Todd Hermann, Nikki Graves Henderson, Christine Lee Buchholz, and Bill Ackerman (unanimous)
• Approved August 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Decided to host a table at the Falls Church Festival on September 13, 2025; volunteers needed
• Approved adjournment of the meeting (unanimous)

City Council: Council Agenda Meeting with Staff

The Mayor will meet with City Council staff to review the Council schedule and upcoming meeting agendas. This is a procedural meeting open to the public.

• Discussion of Council schedule and upcoming meeting agendas

The September 3, 2025 Mayor’s Agenda Meeting with Staff was held to discuss scheduling items for future City Council meetings. All council members except Justine Underhill and several staff members attended. The agenda listed upcoming events, proclamations, code updates, and consent items but recorded no votes or formal approvals. No substantive decisions were made during this session.

Historic Architectural Review Board

The Historic Architectural Review Board will meet to consider an application for 117 E Columbia St. The board is reviewing plans, a plat, and a building permit for this location.

• Application review for 117 E Columbia St

City Council: Council Agenda Meeting with Staff

The Falls Church City Council Mayor will meet with staff to discuss the council schedule and upcoming meeting agendas. This is a staff coordination meeting and not a public decision session.

The August 27, 2025 Mayor’s Agenda Meeting with Staff reviewed items slated for future City Council sessions, including work sessions, regular sessions, proclamations, and various consent items. No votes or formal approvals were recorded during this meeting.

Environmental Sustainability Council

The Energy Transition Subcommittee will review a draft 2023 community-scale greenhouse gas inventory with staff from the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments. The meeting is scheduled for August 27, 2025, at 2:00pm.

• Review draft 2023 community-scale greenhouse gas inventory with MWCOG staff
• Public comments accepted via email until 1:00pm on August 27, 2025

Arts and Humanities Council of Falls Church

The Arts and Humanities Council of Falls Church will hold a routine meeting to approve past minutes, receive an outreach committee update, and discuss a strategic plan overview. No major decisions are scheduled.

Library Board of Trustees

The Falls Church Library Board of Trustees will convene to adopt draft bylaws and review the FY2026 workplan. The meeting will also cover draft meeting dates for 2026 and discuss library statistics and policies.

• Adopt draft Library Board of Trustees Bylaws
• Review FY2026 Library Workplan
• Discuss draft 2026 Board Meetings Schedule
• Review Library Statistics
• Approve draft meeting minutes from July 16, 2025

The Library Board approved the minutes from the June 18, 2025 meeting after a motion and second. The board then unanimously adjourned the meeting at 6:46 p.m. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved June 18, 2025 meeting minutes (motion passed)
• Adjourned meeting unanimously (6:46 p.m.)

City Council Committee: Appointments

The Appointments Committee will interview candidates for open positions on local boards and commissions, including the Advisory Board of Recreation and Parks and the Board of Equalization. Board and commission chairs are invited to attend the interviews.

• New applicant: Marcelo Boffelli – Advisory Board of Recreation and Parks (09/01/25–08/31/28)
• Reappointment request: Michael Bracken – Advisory Board of Recreation and Parks (09/01/25–08/31/28)
• New applicant: Mark Kaye – Board of Equalization (02/01/25–01/31/28, unexpired term)
• Reappointment request: Alexander Mericola – Historical Commission (09/01/25–08/31/28)

The Appointments Committee met on August 20, 2025 to interview candidates for several boards and commissions. Candidates discussed included Marcelo Boffelli, Michael Bracken, Mark Kaye, and Alexander Mericola. The committee did not vote on or approve any appointments during this meeting. The meeting adjourned at 9 p.m.

Urban Forestry Commission

The Urban Forestry Commission will meet to discuss legislative priorities for the 2026 General Assembly. The body will also review staff and community updates.

• UFC Legislative priorities for GA 2026

The commission approved the July 16, 2025 Urban Forestry Commission minutes. A motion to submit the UFC's legislative priorities to Cindy Meister of the Falls Church Legislative Affairs Committee was adopted unanimously (3 ayes). No other substantive actions were decided at this meeting.

• Approved July 16, 2025 UFC minutes (unanimous)
• Motion to submit UFC Legislative Priorities to Cindy Meister passed (3 ayes)

Citizens Advisory Committee on Transportation

The Citizens Advisory Committee on Transportation will receive updates from the Department of Public Works and the NTC. The committee is scheduled to take action on a safety memo regarding Oak Street Elementary School.

• Action item: Oak Street Elementary School Safety Memo
• Information item: DPW Update
• Information item: NTC Monthly Update

The committee reported that the City Council authorized awarding the Greenway Downs traffic‑calming contract to Imperio Construction LLC on August 11. The July 9, 2025 meeting minutes were approved unanimously (4‑0). The committee adopted agenda items for a September capital bikeshare update and an OSES safety memo, and scheduled a Transportation Dashboard for the December agenda. No public comment was received.

• Approved July 9, 2025 meeting minutes (vote 4‑0)
• City Council authorized award of Greenway Downs traffic‑calming contract to Imperio Construction LLC (August 11)
• Adjourned the meeting (vote 4‑0)
• Adopted September agenda items: capital bikeshare update and OSES safety memo
• Scheduled Transportation Dashboard for December agenda
• Initiated Residential Permit Parking Zone 3 study near Founders Row Phase II
• Neighborhood Vote passed for Noland Street speed humps; humps installed
• Ordered speed cushions for S West Street, estimated installation Fall 2025

Environmental Sustainability Council

The Education Task Group, a subcommittee of the Environmental Sustainability Council, is meeting to discuss activity planning for Operation EarthWatch for the 2025-2026 school year.

• Operation EarthWatch activity planning for 2025-2026 school year

The August 13 meeting was used to thank Tina Ho, transfer program materials, and discuss recruitment and leadership roles for the 2025‑2026 school year. Attendees assigned responsibilities for outreach, registration, and event planning, but no formal approvals, denials, or votes were recorded.

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals will consider two variance applications regarding sign quantity and size. Both requests seek to exceed current zoning limits for businesses located on Broad Street.

• Variance V1665-25 for 1001 West Broad Street to allow 5 wall signs and 6 total signs
• Variance V1666-25 for 1000 E Broad Street to allow 3 wall signs
• Variance V1666-25 for 1000 E Broad Street to allow total sign area of 338.92 square feet

The Falls Church Board of Zoning Appeals approved variance V1666‑25, allowing OneLife Fitness to install three wall signs with a total area of 338.92 square feet at 1000 East Broad Street. The motion was made, seconded, and passed unanimously. No decision was reached on variance V1665‑25 for Tatte Bakery, which remains pending.

• Approved Variance V1666‑25 for OneLife Fitness signage at 1000 East Broad Street

Arts and Humanities Council of Falls Church

The Arts & Humanities Council’s Outreach Committee is meeting to discuss new business. The agenda focuses on the Visit Falls Church website and the EDO social media strategy.

• Visit Falls Church Website
• EDO Social Media Strategy

City Council: Council Agenda Meeting with Staff

The Mayor will meet with City Council staff to review the Council schedule and upcoming meeting agendas. This is a procedural meeting open to the public.

• Discussion of Council schedule and upcoming meeting agendas

The council voted to allow Letty Hardi to join the meeting electronically from Carmel, California, and from Cape May, New Jersey. Both motions passed unanimously with a 4‑0 roll‑call vote. No other decisions were made at this agenda meeting.

• Approved electronic participation for Letty Hardi from Carmel, CA (4-0)
• Approved electronic participation for Letty Hardi from Cape May, NJ (4-0)

City Employee Review Board

The Employee Review Board will meet to adopt a virtual participation policy. The board will also hold a closed session to discuss candidates for the 2024 Employee of the Year award.

• Adoption of virtual participation policy
• Closed session to discuss 2024 Employee of the Year candidates

City Council Committee: Government Operations

The City Council Government Operations Committee will discuss personnel and organizational management. The meeting includes reviews of city recruitment and the city's mission, vision, and values.

• HR update on vacancies and recruitment
• Review of organizational Mission, Vision, and Values work
• Review of Boards and Commissions list

The Government Operations Committee met on July 23, 2025, and reviewed agenda items including HR vacancies, the city’s mission, vision and values, and the boards and commissions list. No motions were made, no votes were taken, and no decisions were recorded. The meeting adjourned at 10:15 a.m.

Public Utilities Commission

The Public Utilities Commission will introduce a new senior sanitary sewer engineer. The body will also discuss best practices for addressing illegal connections to private lateral sewers, including a pilot study from the City of St. Petersburg.

• Introduction of new Senior sanitary sewer engineer Reza Ravandoust
• Discussion of City of St. Petersburg Pilot Study of the Private Lateral Rehabilitation Rebate Program

The Public Utility Commission approved the minutes from the July 17, 2025 meeting. No public comments were received. Commissioners discussed goals for 2024‑2025, including stormwater credit ideas and a recent culvert cleanup project. The next meeting was set for July 23, 2025 at 7:00 pm.

• Approved minutes from July 17, 2025 meeting
• Scheduled next meeting for July 23, 2025 at 7:00 pm

Environmental Sustainability Council

The Environmental Sustainability Council and Energy Transition Subcommittee will meet to conduct organizational business and review environmental initiatives. The body will vote on a Vice Chair and introduce new members.

• Vote on Vice Chair of ESC
• Action item regarding Leave the Leaves
• Introduction of new members Lauren McGlinch, Marisa McNatt, and Deborah Oluka
• Gordon Road ULI TAP Review
• Solid Waste Task Force Update

Arts and Humanities Council of Falls Church

The Arts and Humanities Council will meet to review its strategic plan and address a flag request from the Historical Commission. The body will also discuss its meeting day and time.

• Strategic Plan Overview
• Historical Commission Flag Request
• Discussion of meeting day and time

The Arts and Humanities Council approved the May 2025 minutes without opposition. A motion to adjourn the meeting was also approved unanimously. The council expressed support for the Historical Commission’s flag update request, noting no immediate action is required. A poll will be sent to members to consider changing the regular meeting day and time.

• Approved May 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved adjournment of the meeting (unanimous)
• Supported Historical Commission flag update request (no action needed)
• Will send poll to members on changing meeting day and time

Human Services Advisory Council

The Human Services Advisory Council will meet to receive updates on city services and community assessments. The body will discuss the ADA Transition plan and a budget increase for the Sheriff's Office.

• ADA Transition plan follow-up
• Sheriff’s Office update on budget increase
• Community needs assessment
• Fairfax County Department of Family Services (DFS) Agreement update
• Fairfax Area Commission on Aging update

The council adopted the meeting agenda after a motion by Jeff Person that all members approved. The June meeting minutes were approved following Jeff Person's motion. The council also approved merging the Fairfax County Department of Family Services contracts, with the City Manager expected to sign the agreement in the coming weeks. No other substantive decisions were recorded.

• Adopt agenda (motion by Jeff Person, approved by all members)
• Approve June minutes (motion by Jeff Person, approved)
• Approve merger of Fairfax County DFS contracts (City Council approval)

Library Board of Trustees

The Mary Riley Styles Public Library Board of Trustees will meet to discuss library statistics and the draft FY2025 Annual Report. The agenda consists of procedural items and document reviews.

• Review of Library Statistics
• Review of Draft FY2025 Annual Report
• Review of draft meeting minutes

The Library Board voted to allow Robert Leopold to join the meeting electronically, with all trustees voting in favor. The Board also approved the May 21, 2025 meeting minutes. The meeting was adjourned unanimously at 7:00 p.m. The minutes noted upcoming library closures for Juneteenth and Independence Day.

• Approved electronic participation for Robert Leopold (unanimous aye vote)
• Approved May 21, 2025 meeting minutes (motion by Johnson, seconded by Cline)
• Adjourned meeting unanimously at 7:00 p.m.

Urban Forestry Commission

The Urban Forestry Commission will discuss tree canopy coverage for commercial developments and the 2025 Leave the Leave Campaign. The body is also reviewing the second draft of the 2024 UFC Report to City Council.

• Tree canopy coverage for commercial developments staff update
• 2025 Leave the Leave Campaign presentation by Pat Conley of Falls Church Forward
• Review of 2024 UFC Report to City Council – DRAFT 2

The commission approved the February 19, 2025 meeting minutes by voice vote. It voted to endorse the city’s 2025 “Leave the Leaves” environmental outreach message. The 2024 UFC Annual Report was also approved by voice vote.

• Approved February 19, 2025 UFC minutes (voice vote)
• Endorsed 2025 “Leave the Leaves” campaign message (vote)
• Approved 2024 UFC Annual Report (voice vote)

Falls Church250 Committee

The Falls Church250 Committee will meet to discuss its mission statement and member outreach. The committee is also scheduled to brainstorm for a city event on July 4, 2026.

• Brainstorming for July 4, 2026 City Event
• Assignment of organizations for member outreach
• Discussion of Mission Statement

The Falls Church250 Committee approved virtual participation for two members, adopted the June 2025 minutes, and enacted the new mission statement, all by unanimous vote. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously. Members were each assigned 2‑3 organizations for outreach before the September 9 meeting.

• Approved virtual participation for Jim Coyle and Nikki Graves Henderson (unanimous)
• Approved June 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved mission statement (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)
• Assigned 2‑3 outreach organizations to each member for follow‑up (task)

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals will review two variance applications for properties in the R-1A Low Density Residential District. The board is deciding whether to allow reduced yard setbacks for a porch and a new home.

• Variance V1667-25: Front and side yard setbacks for a covered porch at 509 South Spring Street
• Variance V1668-25: Front and rear yard setbacks for a new single-family residence at 618 Laura Drive

The Board of Zoning Appeals received a motion to approve variance V1668-25 for 618 Laura Drive, but the minutes do not record a vote outcome. The meeting minutes were not approved. No decision was made on a continuance request for variance V1 6 67-25.

• Motion to approve variance V1668-25 (618 Laura Drive) presented (no vote recorded)
• Meeting minutes not approved
• Continuance request for variance V1 6 67-25 received; no decision recorded

City Council Committee: Appointments

The committee will interview candidates for new appointments and reappointment requests. This includes filling vacancies for the Library Board of Trustees and the West Falls Community Development Authority.

• Interviews for two expiring Library Board of Trustees terms (Michael Tyrrell, Claire McCray, Janis Johnson)
• Appointment request for Andy Young to the West Falls Community Development Authority
• Reappointment requests for Debora Schantz-Hiscott, David Snyder, Alan Brangman, and Michael Trauberman to West Falls authorities
• Appointment request for Charlie Lord to the FC250 Committee for an unexpired term

The Appointments Committee voted to go into a closed session to discuss prospective candidates, then voted to reconvene in open session. Both motions passed unanimously with Council Members Flynn, Hardi, and Connelly voting yes. The committee also voted unanimously to certify that only exempt public business was discussed in the closed session.

• Entered closed session (3-0)
• Reopened open session (3-0)
• Certified exemption of closed‑session matters (3-0)

Citizens Advisory Committee on Transportation

The Citizens Advisory Committee on Transportation will review traffic data and prioritization memos for several local roads. The committee is also deciding on safety measures for Oak Street Elementary School and reviewing the 2024 Transportation Dashboard.

• Prioritization of Gundry Drive and Annandale Road
• Prioritization of Great Falls Street (Lincoln Ave-Little Falls St)
• Oak Street Elementary School Safety Memo
• 2024 Transportation Dashboard
• Discussion of heavy solutions for Fowler Street

The committee adopted motions to pursue quick‑fix light solutions for the Gundry Drive and Annandale Road intersection while also studying longer‑term redesign options. It endorsed staff’s recommendation for light solutions on Great Falls Street and ordered an upgrade of the Great Falls/Little Falls traffic signal to include pedestrian signals. The city began the process to create Residential Permit Parking Zone 3 near Founders Row Phase II and ordered speed humps for Noland Street after a neighborhood vote. No additional all‑virtual meeting dates were selected and the meeting was extended to 9:30 p.m., with all motions passing 5‑0.

• Approved motion (5‑0) to pursue quick‑fix light solutions for Gundry Drive & Annandale Road and study long‑term redesign
• Approved motion (5‑0) to support staff’s light‑solution recommendation for Great Falls Street and upgrade its traffic signal with pedestrian signals
• Ordered speed humps for Noland Street after Neighborhood Vote (installation July/August)
• Initiated process to establish Residential Permit Parking Zone 3 near Founders Row Phase II
• Approved staff’s revised light‑measure solutions for Sherrow Avenue and will send Neighborhood Vote
• No all‑virtual meeting dates were selected for 2025
• Motion to extend meeting to 9:30 p.m. passed (5‑0)
• June 9, 2025 minutes approved (5‑0)

Economic Development Authority

The Falls Church Economic Development Authority will convene on July 9, 2025, at 7:00 PM in the Laurel Room at City Hall to conduct routine business. Items include approval of June meeting minutes, a public comment period, a status update on EDA funds, and an update on the work plan for Parklet & Public Parking Signage. The meeting also covers business updates and a closed session regarding a fully executed MOU for Va Village.

• Approval of draft June 3, 2025 EDA meeting minutes
• Status update on EDA funds
• EDA Work Plan Update on Parklet & Public Parking Signage
• Business updates for July 2025
• Closed session on Va Village MOU (fully executed 2022-12-13)

The board approved the June 3 meeting minutes by a 5‑0 vote. It adopted a motion for new parklet signs to match existing signage, also passing 5‑0. In closed session, the board unanimously approved discussion of a real‑property acquisition for affordable housing, then unanimously accepted ownership of 303 Shirley Street and 208 Gibson and authorized the chair to execute the related documents.

• Approved June 3, 2025 meeting minutes (5‑0)
• Adopted parklet sign design preference matching Mr. Browns Park sign (5‑0)
• Amended signage motion to consider future park sign consistency (5‑0)
• Closed session convened to discuss acquisition of real property for affordable housing (unanimous)
• Accepted ownership of 303 Shirley Street and 208 Gibson (unanimous)
• Authorized EDA Chair to execute all associated ownership documents (unanimous)
• Authorized EDA Chair and staff to carry out closed‑session direction on affordable‑housing property acquisition (unanimous)

Housing Commission

The Housing Commission will meet to conduct a CDBG review for fiscal year 2026. The agenda includes a review of Homestretch and a Welcoming Falls Church memo.

• FY26 CDBG Review: Homestretch
• FY26 CDBG Review: Welcoming Falls Church Memo

The Housing Commission voted unanimously to allocate both the $30,000 HOME grant and the $40,000 CDBG grant to Homestretch. The commission also approved Galina Tarasova's virtual attendance and approved the meeting minutes, each by unanimous vote.

• Approved virtual attendance for Galina (unanimous)
• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Allocated $30,000 HOME grant and $40,000 CDBG grant to Homestretch (unanimous)

Aurora House Citizens' Advisory Committee

The Aurora House Citizens' Advisory Committee will meet to review the Group Home Manager's report and discuss scholarships. The meeting includes a session for new business.

• Group Home Manager's Report
• Scholarships

City Council: Council Agenda Meeting with Staff

The Mayor will meet with City Council staff to review the Council schedule and upcoming meeting agendas. This is a procedural meeting open to the public.

• Discussion of Council schedule and upcoming meeting agendas

The City Council voted to allow Council Member David Snyder to participate electronically in the meeting for medical reasons, following the adopted policy. The motion was moved by Mayor Hardi, seconded by Vice Mayor Schantz-Hiscott, and passed unanimously with a 4-0 vote.

• Approved electronic participation for Council Member Snyder (4-0)

City Council Committee: Budget & Finance

The committee will review the May revenue report for FY2025 and discuss the FY2026 budget process. Discussions include council budget guidance and revenue share methodology.

• FY2025 May Revenue Report
• FY2026 Council Budget Guidance
• Revenue Share Methodology
• Revenue Share Methodology with Solid Waste Fee
• Budget Calendar

The Budget and Finance Committee met on June 26, 2025 at City Hall. The agenda included a FY2025 third‑quarter report, FY2026 budget update, and discussion of a federal funding freeze. No actions, approvals, or votes were recorded in the minutes. The meeting was adjourned at 9:34 a.m.

City Council Committee: Government Operations

The City Council Government Operations Committee will meet to conduct a closed session. The session is dedicated to performance reviews for the City Manager, City Attorney, and City Clerk.

• Performance reviews for the City Manager, City Attorney, and City Clerk

The Government Operations Committee voted 2‑0 to enter a closed session for performance‑review discussions. It then voted 2‑0 to reconvene in open session. Finally, it voted 2‑0 to certify that only exempt public‑business matters were discussed in the closed session.

• Closed session convened for performance‑review discussions (2-0)
• Open session reconvened after closed session (2-0)
• Certification of compliance with open‑meeting law (2-0)

Aurora House Citizens' Advisory Committee

The Aurora House Citizens' Advisory Committee will hold a special meeting to review scholarship applications and manage the dispersal of awards.

• Scholarship Review and Award Dispersal

Library Board of Trustees

The Mary Riley Styles Public Library Board of Trustees will meet to review draft minutes from May 21, 2025, and examine library statistics. The agenda contains no specific policy decisions or proposed actions.

• Review of May 21, 2025 draft meeting minutes
• Review of library statistics

The Library Board of Trustees approved the minutes from the April 16, 2025 meeting with a minor change after a motion by Robert Leopold and a second by Steve Morse. The board then unanimously adjourned the May 21 meeting. No other substantive actions or votes were recorded.

• Approved April 16, 2025 meeting minutes (motion by Leopold, seconded by Morse)
• Unanimously adjourned the May 21, 2025 meeting (motion by Cline, seconded by Labukas)

Human Services Advisory Council

The Human Services Advisory Council will meet to discuss community needs and policy updates. The body is scheduled to review approvals for FY2026 Rent Relief grants.

• FY2026 Rent Relief grant approval
• Americans with Disability Act (ADA) presentation follow-up
• Community needs assessment
• Affordable Living Policy update
• Debrief from joint meeting with Housing Commission

The Human Services Advisory Council adopted its agenda and approved the May meeting minutes. Members elected Brian Bowden as Chair and Jeff Person as Vice Chair. The council also approved the FY2026 Rent Relief Program Grant with all members voting in favor.

• Adopted meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved May meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Elected Brian Bowden as Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Jeff Person as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Approved FY2026 Rent Relief Program Grant (unanimous)

Environmental Sustainability Council

The Environmental Sustainability Council and Energy Transition Subcommittee will meet to conduct council business and review bylaws. The body will vote on a Vice Chair and tour the Community Center Geothermal HVAC system.

• Vote on Mike Trauberman for Vice Chair of ESC
• Review of ESC Bylaws
• Tour of Community Center Geothermal HVAC

The council approved remote participation for Jon Ward. Mike Trauberman was appointed Chair to fill the remainder of Joseph Schiarizzi's term. Lauren will serve as interim Vice‑Chair until a vote next month. The May ESC minutes were approved.

• Approved remote participation for Jon Ward (unanimous)
• Appointed Mike Trauberman as Chair (unanimous)
• Designated Lauren as interim Vice‑Chair pending vote next month (unanimous)
• Approved May ESC minutes (unanimous)

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals will consider two variance applications for residential properties. The board will decide if these properties can deviate from standard setback and lot coverage requirements.

• Variance V1663-25: 26.1-inch front yard setback for second story addition at 102 N. Cherry Street
• Variance V1664-25: 38.9% impervious lot coverage at 906 Lincoln Avenue
• Variance V1664-25: 27-foot driveway width at 906 Lincoln Avenue

The Board of Zoning Appeals held a public hearing on June 12, 2025 for variance V1663‑25. After discussion, the board voted to approve the variance allowing a front yard setback of 26.1 feet instead of the required 30 feet at 102 North Cherry Street. No other applications were decided at this meeting.

• Approved variance V1663‑25 for front yard setback of 26.1 ft (motion passed)

City Council: Council Agenda Meeting with Staff

The Mayor will meet with City Council staff to review the Council schedule and upcoming meeting agendas. This is a procedural meeting open to the public.

• Discussion of Council schedule and upcoming meeting agendas

The council voted to allow Letty Hardi to join the meeting remotely from Providence, RI under the city’s electronic participation policy. The motion was moved by Vice Mayor Schantz‑Hiscott, seconded by Council Member Connelly, and passed unanimously with a 4‑0 roll‑call vote. No other decisions were made during this staff agenda meeting.

• Approved electronic participation for Letty Hardi (4-0)

Recreation & Parks Advisory Board

The Recreation & Parks Advisory Board will meet to review reports from the Recreation Director and discuss facility upgrades. The agenda includes a tour of a geothermal project and updates on park and HVAC projects.

• Tour of geothermal project and building upgrades
• Park Project Updates
• HVAC Project Update

The Recreation & Parks Advisory Board approved the minutes from the May 14, 2025 meeting after a motion by Bill Ackerman, seconded by Jenna Schroeder, with Shannon Friedlander abstaining. The board then adjourned the June 11 meeting following a motion by Jerrod Anderson, seconded by Bill Ackerman. No other formal actions were taken.

• Approved May 14, 2025 minutes (motion by Bill Ackerman, seconded by Jenna Schroeder; 1 abstention)
• Adjourned meeting (motion by Jerrod Anderson, seconded by Bill Ackerman)

City Council Committee: Appointments

The committee is meeting to interview new applicants and review appointment requests for several city boards and commissions. These positions involve unexpired terms ending between 2026 and 2028.

• Interview of Sarah Mossburg for Human Services Advisory Council
• Interview of Irv Katz for Fairfax Area Commission on Aging
• Interviews of Marisa McNatt and Deborah Oluka for Environmental Sustainability Council
• Appointment requests for Joseph Rollo and Edwin B. Henderson II for City Employee Review Board
• Appointment request for Sue E. Armstrong for Continuum of Care Board

The Appointments Committee met on June 11, 2025 to interview several candidates for city boards and commissions. Candidates included Sarah Mossburg, Irv Katz, Marisa McNatt, Deborah Oluka, and appointment requests for Joseph Rollo, Edwin B. Henderson II, and Sue E. Armstrong. The minutes record only the interviews and discussions and do not note any approvals, rejections, or votes. Consequently, no appointment decisions were made or recorded at this meeting.

Citizens Advisory Committee on Transportation

The Citizens Advisory Committee on Transportation will discuss the annual paving plan and receive updates from Public Works and the NTC. The committee is scheduled to take action on a safety memo for Oak Street Elementary School and the 2024 Transportation Dashboard.

• Action item: Oak Street Elementary School Safety Memo
• Action item: 2024 Transportation Dashboard
• Information item: Annual Paving Plan
• Correspondence: Shreve Road Shared Use Path Project
• Introduction of Amanda Stout Brain, Director of Public Works

The committee approved the May 14, 2025 minutes with a 4‑0 vote. A motion to extend the meeting to 9:20 p.m. also passed 4‑0. A motion to oppose the proposed residential permit parking zone failed because it received no second. The meeting was adjourned with a 4‑0 vote.

• Approved May 14, 2025 minutes (4-0)
• Extended meeting to 9:20 p.m. (4-0)
• Motion to oppose residential permit parking failed (no second)
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

Housing Commission

The Housing Commission will review and vote on Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) items for fiscal years 2023 through 2026. The body will also discuss the Affordable Living Policy and provide an annual update to the Council.

• CDBG review and vote for FY23 Welcoming FC
• CDBG review and vote for FY24 FCHC
• CDBG review and vote for FY25 FCHC
• CDBG review and vote for FY26 FCHC
• Affordable Living Policy (ALP) update

The commission approved its meeting minutes. It then voted unanimously to allocate a total of $180,000 in Community Development Block Grant funds for FY 23, FY 24, and FY 25 to the Winter Hill project (FCHC Virginia Community Development Corporation). No other funding motions were adopted; discussions on Welcoming Falls Church and other programs were left for future meetings.

• Approved meeting minutes (motion by Jordan, seconded by Sara)
• Unanimously approved $180,000 CDBG allocation to Winter Hill for FY 23‑FY 25

Falls Church250 Committee

The Falls Church250 Committee will meet to review the May 2025 minutes. The committee is discussing its mission statement and the 2026 calendar of events.

• Approval of May 2025 minutes
• Discussion of Mission Statement
• Discussion of 2026 Calendar of Events

The committee unanimously approved a motion to allow David Snyder and Callie Hawkins to join virtually. It also unanimously approved the May 2025 minutes and the motion to adjourn the meeting. Members reviewed a draft mission statement and agreed to revise it with feedback before the next meeting. The committee assigned each member a group of organizations to contact for the 2026 calendar of events.

• Approved virtual participation for David Snyder and Callie Hawkins (unanimous)
• Approved May 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved adjournment of the meeting (unanimous)
• Agreed to revise mission statement draft incorporating members' feedback (no vote recorded)
• Assigned outreach groups for 2026 calendar of events (decision, no vote recorded)

Economic Development Authority

The Economic Development Authority will discuss a commercial property tax abatement program and the management of the Virginia Village property. The body will also vote on a member to serve on the West Falls Community Development Authority.

• Election/Reelection of a member to the West Falls Community Development Authority
• Discussion on the Commercial Property Tax Abatement Program
• Update on the Maple and Annandale Project/EDA Property
• Virginia Village property management contract update
• Review of the W Broad St Streetscape Inventory

The board approved the draft minutes from the April 1 and May 6 meetings. Alan Brangman was elected to represent the EDA on the West Falls Community Development Authority, filling Bob Young’s seat. No other formal actions were taken.

• Approved April 1, 2025 EDA meeting minutes (6-0 vote)
• Approved May 6, 2025 EDA meeting minutes (unanimous vote)
• Appointed Alan Brangman to West Falls Community Development Authority (unanimous approval)

City Council: Council Agenda Meeting with Staff

The Mayor is meeting with City Council staff to review the Council schedule and upcoming meeting agendas. This is a procedural meeting open to the public.

• Discussion of Council schedule and upcoming meeting agendas

The May 21, 2025 Mayor’s Agenda Meeting with Staff was called to discuss scheduling items for future City Council sessions. The meeting recorded attendance and listed topics to be addressed in upcoming sessions, but no motions, votes, or approvals were documented. Consequently, no council decisions were made or recorded at this meeting.

Library Board of Trustees

The Falls Church Library Board of Trustees will review draft minutes from the April 16 meeting and updated library statistics. No substantive decisions are listed on this procedural agenda.

The Library Board of Trustees voted to approve the March 26, 2025 meeting minutes. The board then unanimously moved to adjourn the May 21, 2025 meeting at 6:37 p.m. No other formal votes were recorded.

• Approved March 26, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:37 p.m. (unanimous)

Environmental Sustainability Council

The Environmental Sustainability Council will hold a regular meeting including public comment, approval of previous minutes, and introduction of new member Lauren McGlinch. The main business items are a progress report on the Community Energy Action Plan (CEAP) and a presentation on the adopted budget.

• Introduction of new ESC member Lauren McGlinch
• CEAP progress report by staff liaison Kurt Lawrence
• Adopted budget presentation by Joseph Schiarizzi

The Environmental Sustainability Council approved the April meeting minutes unanimously. The Planning Commission approved the site plan for the Econize site on Broad Street. No other formal actions were taken at this meeting.

• Approved April ESC minutes (unanimous)
• Planning Commission approved Econize site plan on Broad Street

Arts and Humanities Council of Falls Church

The Falls Church250 Committee will meet on May 6, 2025 to approve April 2025 minutes and discuss priorities and potential sub-committees. The agenda includes public comment and is otherwise procedural. No major decisions or financial items are on the agenda.

• Approve April 2025 meeting minutes
• Public comment period
• Ongoing business: determine priorities and potential sub-committees

The council voted to approve the March and April 2025 meeting minutes. The motion was made by Maureen Budetti, seconded by Ronald Anzalone, and passed unanimously. A motion to adjourn the meeting was then made by Ari Autor, seconded by Elise Neil Bengston, and also passed unanimously.

• Approved March and April 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Arts and Humanities Council of Falls Church

The Arts and Humanities Council will meet to review minutes from March and April 2025. The body will discuss ongoing business including the Strategic Plan, Falls Church Arts Day, and the City Council Annual Report.

• Falls Church Arts Day brief
• Strategic Plan overview
• Falls Church250 Committee updates
• City Council Annual Report brief

City Council Committee: Government Operations

This Government Operations Committee meeting is largely procedural, with a closed session scheduled to discuss performance reviews for the City Manager, City Attorney, and City Clerk. No public hearings or substantive votes are on the agenda.

• Closed session under Virginia law for personnel performance reviews of three top city officials

The Government Operations Committee voted unanimously to go into a closed session, then unanimously voted to reconvene in open session. Afterwards, the committee unanimously certified that only exempt public‑business matters were discussed in the closed session, as required by law.

• Entered closed session (3‑0 AYE)
• Reopened open session (3‑0 AYE)
• Certified compliance with open‑meeting exemptions (3‑0 AYE)

Recreation & Parks Advisory Board

The Recreation & Parks Advisory Board will discuss and potentially adopt the FY2026 Operating and Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). They will also hear updates on park projects, an HVAC project, and a proposed no-smoking policy in parks. The meeting opens with public petitions and approval of March 12, 2025 minutes.

• FY2026 Operating and CIP adoption
• Park Project Updates
• HVAC Project Update
• No Smoking in the Parks discussion
• Minutes for Approval: March 12, 2025

The board unanimously approved the February 12, 2025 meeting minutes. It decided to place no‑smoking policy stickers on park trash cans. The meeting was then adjourned by motion.

• Approved February 12, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Authorized placement of no‑smoking stickers on park trash cans
• Motion to adjourn passed

Citizens Advisory Committee on Transportation

The Citizens Advisory Committee on Transportation will discuss traffic data and prioritization for two sections of Hillwood Avenue. The committee will also review safety memos for Oak Street Elementary School and the intersection of N West Street and Park Avenue.

• Hillwood Avenue (Grace Lane-Cleave Drive) NTC Prioritization
• Hillwood Avenue (Cleave Drive-S Roosevelt) NTC Prioritization
• Oak Street Elementary School Safety Memo
• N West Street and Park Avenue Memo
• 2024 Transportation Dashboard

Committee members approved a revised N West Street and Park Avenue safety memo and directed it to City Council (vote 6‑0, one abstention). The committee gave high priority to two Hillwood Avenue traffic‑calming cases, voting 7‑0 to move forward with light‑solution recommendations. Additional actions included adopting the April 9 minutes (6‑0), keeping September and October meetings in person (7‑0), and extending the meeting time (two motions passed 7‑0). The meeting adjourned with a unanimous vote.

• April 9, 2025 minutes approved (6-0)
• September and October meeting dates kept in person (7-0)
• Extended meeting to 9:15 PM (7-0)
• Hillwood Avenue (Grace Lane to Cleave Drive) high‑priority, light solutions requested (7-0)
• Hillwood Avenue (Cleave Drive to S Roosevelt Street) high‑priority, light solutions requested (7-0)
• Extended meeting to 9:35 PM (7-0)
• N West Street and Park Avenue memo approved to forward to City Council (6-0, 1 abstention)
• Meeting adjourned (7-0)

City Council Committee: Government Operations

The City Council Government Operations Committee will meet to hold a closed session. The body will discuss performance reviews for the City Manager, City Attorney, and City Clerk.

• Performance reviews for the City Manager, City Attorney, and City Clerk

The Government Operations Committee voted unanimously to enter a closed session to discuss performance reviews for the City Manager, City Attorney, and City Clerk. After the closed session, the Committee voted unanimously to reconvene in open session. The Committee then unanimously certified that only exempt public‑business matters were discussed in the closed session, as required by law.

• Approved motion to enter closed session (3-0)
• Approved motion to reconvene in open session (3-0)
• Approved certification of closed‑session compliance (3-0)

Housing Commission

The Housing Commission will meet to receive updates on housing and the Affordable Living Policy (ALP). The body will also review the Housing Commission Annual Report.

• Review of Housing Commission Annual Report
• Affordable Living Policy (ALP) update
• Housing updates from staff

The commission approved its 2024 annual report after a motion and second. A motion to approve goal 2 as a priority in the Affordable Living Policy was passed. The meeting minutes were approved and the session was adjourned.

• Approved meeting minutes (motion by Sara, seconded by Jordin)
• Approved goal 2 as a priority in the Affordable Living Policy (motion by Jordin, approved by Sara)
• Approved the 2024 Housing Commission annual report (all members voted in support)
• Adjourned the meeting (motion by Jordin, seconded by Sara)

Human Services Advisory Council

The Housing Commission and Human Services Advisory Council are holding a joint meeting to discuss unhoused priorities and restorative justice. The bodies will also discuss goals for joint advocacy.

• Discussion of unhoused priorities for the city with Stephen Knippler of the Office to Prevent and End Homelessness
• Presentation by Grace Woodward, Director of the Restorative Justice and Diversion Program for Arlington County
• Discussion of Housing Commission goals and joint advocacy opportunities with HSAC

Human Services Advisory Council

The Human Services Advisory Council will hold a regular meeting with updates on an ADA presentation follow-up, the HSAC annual report, and a business meeting update. The agenda includes public comment, approval of minutes, and a staff report. No votes on funding or policy changes are scheduled.

• ADA presentation follow-up discussion led by Ripal Patel
• HSAC Annual Report Update by Chair Brian Bowden
• HSAC business meeting update by Chair Brian Bowden
• Public comment period (written submissions accepted by email until 6:30 pm on Dec 10, 2024)

The council adopted the meeting agenda after a motion by Nicole Newman that was approved by all members. The April meeting minutes were approved following a motion by Jeff Person, also unanimously approved. Members agreed to change the scheduled HSAC meeting from June 19 to June 18 due to a public holiday. The meeting was adjourned after a motion by Nicole Newman, approved by all members.

• Adopt agenda – approved unanimously
• Approve April minutes – approved unanimously
• Reschedule HSAC June meeting to June 18 – approved unanimously
• Adjourn meeting – approved unanimously

Retirement Board

The Falls Church Retirement Board will review third-quarter FY25 performance of its defined benefit and contribution plans, plus receive an actuarial assumption review for action. They will also hear a briefing on the proposed FY26 budget and take action on trustee appointments, officer elections, training policy, and cybersecurity policies. Public comments may be submitted by 3:30 PM on May 8.

• Third Quarter FY25 Defined Benefit Plans report (Mariner Consulting)
• Economic and Actuarial Assumption Review (Segal) – action item
• FY26 Proposed Budget Briefing – informational
• Trustee Term Appointments and Officer Elections – action items
• Adoption of Cybersecurity Policies and Training Policy – action items

Aurora House Citizens' Advisory Committee

The Aurora House Citizens' Advisory Committee will meet on May 8, 2025, to approve meeting minutes, hear the Group Home Manager's report, discuss scholarships, and address new business. The agenda is procedural with no specific proposals or dollar amounts listed. Public comments must be submitted by March 8, 2025, as stated in the agenda.

• Approval of minutes from previous meeting
• Group Home Manager's Report
• Scholarships discussion
• New Business

The Aurora House Citizens’ Advisory Committee approved the minutes of the 04/07/25 special meeting (with edits) and the 03/11/25 regular meeting. No other actions requiring a vote were taken. The meeting included reports on program discharges, upcoming spring events, staffing vacancies, and a $24,000 fund balance. Plans were noted for a spring garden open house and a future presentation of the CAC annual report to the City Council.

• Approved 04/07/25 Special Meeting minutes (with edits)
• Approved 03/11/25 Regular Meeting minutes

Aurora House Citizens' Advisory Committee

The Aurora House Citizens’ Advisory Committee will hold a routine meeting to approve minutes, hear a report from the Group Home Manager, and discuss scholarships. The agenda contains no specific proposals or dollar amounts. Public comments were due by March 8, 2025, and will be read during the meeting.

• Approval of prior meeting minutes
• Group Home Manager’s Report
• Scholarships discussion
• New Business

The committee reviewed the Aurora House manager’s report on recent discharges, upcoming spring garden event, spring break activities, staff training, and staffing vacancies. They noted a $24,000 balance in the Arlington Community Foundation Fund and discussed a potential scholarship for a resident. Plans were mentioned for presenting the annual report to City Council and for installing a new oven, but no formal approvals or votes were recorded.

City Council: Council Agenda Meeting with Staff

The Mayor will meet with City Council staff to review the Council schedule and upcoming meeting agendas. This is a procedural meeting open to the public.

• Discussion of Council schedule and upcoming meeting agendas

The May 7 Mayor’s agenda meeting with staff was used to discuss scheduling items for upcoming City Council sessions. Attendees reviewed upcoming proclamations, ordinance readings, and franchise agreements. No motions were voted on, and no actions were approved, denied, or tabled during this meeting.

Falls Church250 Committee

The Falls Church250 Committee meets to approve April 2025 minutes and discuss ongoing business, including determining priorities and potential sub-committees. The agenda is largely procedural with no votes on ordinances, contracts, or spending.

• Approval of minutes from April 2025 meeting
• Discussion to determine committee priorities and potential sub-committees

The Falls Church250 Committee approved a motion to let Todd Hermann and Bill Ackerman join the meeting virtually. The April 2025 meeting minutes were approved. Callie Hawkins and Bill Douthitt were tasked with drafting a mission statement, and Paula Hawkins will create an events calendar. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved virtual participation for Todd Hermann and Bill Ackerman (unanimous)
• Approved April 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Assigned Callie Hawkins and Bill Douthitt to draft committee mission statement
• Assigned Paula Hawkins to create events calendar
• Approved motion to adjourn meeting (unanimous)

Economic Development Authority

The Economic Development Authority will discuss a draft Affordable Living Policy update, review accessory dwelling unit amendments, and examine key financial terms for the West Falls project. They will also consider a commercial property tax abatement program and receive updates on federal workforce reductions affecting the region.

• Draft Affordable Living Policy discussion with Housing & Human Services staff
• Accessory Dwelling Units approved amendments summary (April 2025)
• Review of Summary of Key Financial Terms for West Falls Project
• Commercial Property Tax Abatement Program discussion
• Federal Government Workforce Reduction update, including Job Fair for Federal Workers and Contractors

The board voted unanimously to enter a closed session to discuss acquiring the property at 301 Park Ave. It then unanimously approved reconvening in open session and recording that no formal action was taken in the closed meeting. A further unanimous vote certified that only exempted matters were considered in the closed session. The date for the 2024 EDA Annual Report presentation to City Council was changed to June 23, 2025.

• Approved moving to closed session to discuss acquisition of 301 Park Ave (unanimous)
• Approved reconvening in open session and noting no formal action taken in closed meeting (unanimous)
• Approved certification that only exempted public business matters were discussed in closed session (unanimous)
• Changed date of 2024 EDA Annual Report presentation to Council to June 23, 2025

Electoral Board

The Electoral Board is meeting to appoint additional officers of election. The board will also discuss preparations for the June 17 Primary Elections.

• Appointment of additional officers of election
• Preparation for June 17 Primary Elections

Human Services Advisory Council

The Human Services Advisory Council will meet to discuss new business and receive updates. The agenda includes a presentation on the Americans with Disabilities Act and an update regarding Modera Falls Church.

• ADA presentation by Cuong Nguyen
• Modera Falls Church update by Dana Jones
• Update from Sue Armstrong

The Human Services Advisory Council adopted its agenda by unanimous consent. The April meeting minutes were also approved unanimously. The council then adjourned the meeting by motion.

• Adopt agenda – approved unanimously
• Approve April minutes – approved unanimously
• Adjourn meeting – motion passed

City Council: Council Agenda Meeting with Staff

The Mayor will meet with City Council staff to review the Council schedule and upcoming meeting agendas. This is a procedural meeting open to the public.

• Discussion of Council schedule and upcoming meeting agendas

The meeting on April 23, 2025 was a Mayor's agenda meeting with staff to discuss upcoming council agenda items. No actions were approved, denied, or tabled during this session. The council and staff reviewed a schedule of future proclamations, reports, hearings, and work sessions.

City Council Committee: Government Operations

The Falls Church City Council Government Operations Committee is meeting for a routine session. The only substantive agenda item is an HR update. No specific details or action items are listed. The meeting may go into closed session if needed.

• HR Update – no further details provided

The Falls Church City Council Government Operations Committee met on April 23, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM in the Oak Room at City Hall. The agenda included an HR update and routine business items. No actions, approvals, or votes were recorded during the meeting.

Public Utilities Commission

The Falls Church Public Utilities Commission will discuss and set its goals and priorities for 2024-2025, which include providing rate recommendations to the City Council by December 2025, recommending a Sanitary Sewer Master Plan, and developing a pilot program for illegal downspout connections. The Commission will also receive a Capital Improvement Program update and plan a volunteer culvert clean-up. Public comments may be submitted by email until 4 p.m. on meeting day.

• Capital Improvement Program update (Tony Dudley)
• Goal to provide rate recommendations to City Council by December 2025
• Recommendation that City Council undertake a Sanitary Sewer Master Plan
• Develop a pilot program for addressing illegal downspout connections
• Organize a volunteer culvert clean-up

The Falls Church Public Utility Commission approved the minutes from its July 17 meeting. No public comments were received. The commission discussed goals, stormwater credit programs, fee structures, and other topics but took no further formal actions.

• Approved minutes from July 17 meeting

Environmental Sustainability Council

The Environmental Sustainability Council will hold a budget-focused meeting, discussing the proposed FY2026 budget and capital improvements program. A 30-minute session with project manager Lionel Millard is scheduled, along with a budget presentation by Joseph Schiarizzi. The council will also consider a letter from the Falls Church Climate Action Network regarding the budget and CIP.

• Discussion of FY2026 Proposed Budget Document and Capital Improvements Program
• 30-minute discussion with Lionel Millard, PE, Principal Project Manager
• FCCAN letter on FY26 Budget and CIP
• Budget Q&A and schedule review
• LEED v5 update and subcommittee reports

The Environmental Sustainability Council approved the March 2025 meeting minutes by unanimous vote. The discussion with Lionel Millard, PE, about the Government Energy Action Plan was postponed to June. Council members assigned tasks to draft ESC comments on the solid‑waste proposal and to follow up on LEED v5 implementation. The minutes also noted the City Council’s 7‑0 vote on an accessory‑dwelling‑unit ordinance.

• Approved March 2025 ESC minutes (unanimous)
• Postponed discussion with Lionel Millard to June
• Assigned Chris to draft ESC comments on waste proposal
• Noted City Council vote 7‑0 on accessory dwelling unit ordinance
• Identified $50K commercial energy audit program transferred to DPW

Arts and Humanities Council of Falls Church

The Arts and Humanities Council will meet to review minutes from March 2025 and discuss ongoing business. The agenda includes updates on public art processes and city celebrations.

• Developer-Initiated Public Art Process Letter
• Falls Church Arts Day Planning Update
• Selection of AHC Representative Judge for Memorial Day Parade
• Falls Church250 Committee Updates

The Arts and Humanities Council unanimously approved a virtual participation request for Russ Mardon. It also voted to approve the March 2025 minutes at the May meeting. The council unanimously adopted the edited developer‑initiated public art process letter. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

• Approved Russ Mardon to participate virtually (unanimously)
• Voted to approve March 2025 minutes at the May meeting (unanimously)
• Approved the developer‑initiated public art process letter with edits (unanimously)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimously)

West Falls Community Development Authority

The West Falls Community Development Authority will consider approving Resolution 25-01 to adopt the recommended budget and set the annual special assessment for Assessment Year 2026. The board will also receive an update on the West Falls Project and vote on minutes from October 2024.

• Approval of Resolution 25-01: 2026 budget and annual special assessment collections
• Approval of October 22, 2024 board meeting minutes
• Update on the West Falls Project

The West Falls Community Development Authority approved the October 22, 2024 meeting minutes, with all members voting yes except one abstention. The board then approved Resolution 25-01, adopting the recommended budget and annual special assessment collections for assessment year 2026, with a unanimous 5‑0 vote. The meeting was formally adjourned.

• Approved October 22, 2024 minutes (voice vote; all yes, Mr. Brangman abstained)
• Approved Resolution 25-01 – 2026 budget and special assessment (5-0 yes votes)
• Adjourned meeting by motion at 12:57 pm

Library Board of Trustees

The Mary Riley Styles Public Library Board of Trustees will meet to review draft minutes from March 26, 2025, and examine library statistics. The agenda does not list specific decisions or new proposals.

• Review of March 26, 2025, draft meeting minutes
• Review of library statistics

The Board approved the February 5, 2025 meeting minutes after a motion by Mr. Morse and a second by Ms. Cline. The Library Director reported that the resident’s appeal was withdrawn, so the library will keep the book in the children's nonfiction collection per policy. Staffing updates were noted, including an internal fill of a 30‑hour Library Assistant I position and an offer for a 20‑hour Library Assistant I position.

• Approved February 5, 2025 meeting minutes (motion by Morse, seconded by Cline)
• Retained "P is for Palestine" in children's nonfiction collection (appeal withdrawn)
• Filled 30‑hour Library Assistant I position internally
• Offered 20‑hour Library Assistant I position internally and accepted
• Noted resignation of 40‑hour Technical Services Library Assistant II (vacancy posted)
• Adjourned meeting unanimously (motion by Leopold, seconded by Labukas)

City Council Committee: Budget & Finance

The Falls Church City Council Budget & Finance Committee will review the FY2025 Third Quarter financial report and begin discussions on the FY2026 budget. No votes or decisions are expected; this is a discussion-only meeting with 'Other Business' also on the agenda.

• Review of FY2025 Third Quarter financial report
• Discussion of FY2026 Budget preparation
• Potential other business items (unspecified)

The Falls Church Budget and Finance Committee met on April 11, 2025 at City Hall. Members discussed the FY2025 third‑quarter report, the FY2026 budget update, and the impact of a federal funding freeze. The meeting was adjourned at 9:41 a.m. No formal actions, approvals, or votes were recorded.

City Council Committee: Legislative

The City Council Legislative Committee will review the legislative tracking log and implementation plan, including the Governor's 30-day follow-up action deadline of May 2, 2025. They will also discuss federal workforce and funding potential impacts, including emergency committees and a possible special session. The committee will prepare for the 2026 General Assembly and review federal FY26 budget requests.

• Review of Legislative Tracking Log and Implementation Plan
• Governor 30-day follow-up action deadline – May 2, 2025
• Discussion of federal workforce and funding potential impacts (grants, resources, job fairs, housing expo)
• Preparation for 2026 General Assembly
• Review of federal FY26 budget requests

The Legislative Committee voted to allow Justine Underhill to participate electronically in the meeting for medical reasons, invoking the City Council’s policy. The motion passed unanimously, 6-0. The meeting adjourned at 9:54 AM.

• Approved electronic participation for Justine Underhill (6-0)

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals will hold a public hearing on a variance application to reduce the required side yard setback from 8 feet to 7 feet 1 inch for a screened porch at 1203A Lincoln Avenue. The property is zoned R-1B Medium Density Residential. Other agenda items include approval of prior meeting minutes and routine procedural matters.

• Variance application V1659-25 by Miguel Nogales for owners Gillian and Mike Economou to allow a 7'1" side yard setback instead of the required 8 feet for a screened porch at 1203A Lincoln Avenue
• Approval of the March 13, 2025 meeting minutes

The Board of Zoning Appeals heard variance application V1659‑25 from Miguel Nogales on behalf of Gillian and Mike Economou for a side‑yard setback at 1203A Lincoln Avenue. Members and the applicant discussed how the zoning code defines screened porches and related accessory structures. No vote or formal decision was recorded; the board indicated the matter would be referred to staff for clarification.

City Council: Council Agenda Meeting with Staff

The Falls Church City Council is holding a planning session to review the council schedule and upcoming meeting agendas. No votes or decisions are expected; the meeting is for staff coordination.

• Discuss council schedule and upcoming meeting agendas

The Mayor’s Agenda Meeting with Staff on April 9, 2025 was held to discuss scheduling items for future City Council sessions. Attendees included Council members Letty Hardi, Laura Downs, Erin Flynn, Debora Schantz‑Hiscott, and Justine Underhill, and staff members Wyatt Shields, Celeste Heath, Kiran Bawa, and Veronica Prince. The meeting listed upcoming committee meetings, proclamations, ordinance readings, and other events but recorded no votes, approvals, or other formal actions. Therefore, no substantive decisions were made during this session.

Citizens Advisory Committee on Transportation

The Citizens Advisory Committee on Transportation will vote on a Pedestrian Protection Ordinance and discuss safety concerns at Oak Street Elementary School and the intersection of N West Street and Park Avenue. The committee will also set dates for all-virtual meetings in July and August 2025, and receive updates from the Department of Public Works and the Northern Virginia Transportation Commission (NTC).

• ACTION ITEM: Pedestrian Protection Ordinance (staff report attached)
• ACTION ITEM: July/August 2025 all-virtual meeting dates
• Discussion: Oak Street Elementary School safety memo
• Discussion: N West Street and Park Avenue memo
• Information: DPW Update and NTC Monthly Update

The committee approved the March 12, 2025 minutes by a 6‑0 vote. It voted 6‑0 to keep the July meeting in person and make the August meeting all‑virtual. It voted 6‑0 to allow member Jessica Hegenbart to attend virtually due to a family illness. The committee voted 7‑0 to recommend adoption of the Pedestrian Protection Ordinance, with the removal of lines 67‑69.

• Approved March 12, 2025 minutes (6‑0)
• Kept July meeting in person, August meeting all‑virtual (6‑0)
• Allowed Jessica Hegenbart to attend virtually (6‑0)
• Recommended adoption of Pedestrian Protection Ordinance, removing lines 67‑69 (7‑0)
• Extended meeting from 8:45 PM to 9:30 PM (7‑0)
• Extended meeting from 9:29 PM to 9:40 PM (7‑0)
• Adjourned meeting (7‑0)

City Council Committee: Appointments

The City Council Appointments Committee will interview one new applicant and consider three reappointment requests for various city boards and commissions. The committee is filling an unexpired term on the Urban Forestry Commission and reappointing members to the Retirement Board and Arts and Humanities Council. Decisions will be made on these appointments at the meeting.

• New applicant Kathleen Norman for Urban Forestry Commission (unexpired term through 2028)
• Reappointment request: Mathann Jackson – Retirement Board (term ending April 2025)
• Reappointment request: Ariadne Autor – Arts and Humanities Council (Member At-Large, term 2025-2028)
• Reappointment request: Elise Neil Bengston – Arts and Humanities Council (Chamber of Commerce, term 2025-2028)

The Appointments Committee met on April 9, 2025 at City Hall to interview candidates for various boards and commissions. Candidates included Kathleen Norman for the Urban Forestry Commission and reappointment requests from Mathann Jackson, Ariadne Autor, and Elise Neil Bengston. The committee discussed these applicants but recorded no formal approvals, denials, or votes.

Housing Commission

The Housing Commission will receive staff updates on affordable housing initiatives and discuss commission goals. The meeting includes updates on the Affordable Dwelling Unit and Affordable Homeownership programs.

• Affordable Dwelling Unit (ADU) Program update
• Affordable Homeownership Program (AHP) update
• Affordable Living Policy (ALP) community meeting scheduled for April 23rd
• NOVA Housing Expo scheduled for April 12th at Meridian High School
• Discussion of Housing Commission Goals

The commission approved the April 8 meeting minutes after a motion by Sara Ferrara and a second by Galina Tarasova. The meeting was then formally adjourned following a motion by Sara Ferrara, seconded by Galina Tarasova. No other formal actions or votes were recorded.

• Approved meeting minutes (motion by Sara Ferrara, seconded by Galina Tarasova)
• Adjourned meeting (motion by Sara Ferrara, seconded by Galina Tarasova)

Aurora House Citizens' Advisory Committee

The Aurora House Citizens' Advisory Committee will hold a special meeting to review scholarship applications and determine the dispersal of awards.

• Scholarship Review and Award Dispersal

The Aurora House Citizens’ Advisory Committee met on April 7, 2025. The committee agreed to fully fund the applicant’s scholarship at $4,890, to be paid in three installments with two progress check‑ins. No other substantive decisions were recorded.

• Fully fund scholarship $4,890 (3 payments, 2 progress check‑ins)

Falls Church250 Committee

The Falls Church250 Committee will hold a brainstorming activity to generate ideas for the city's 250th anniversary celebration. The meeting also includes approval of March 2025 minutes and a public comment period.

• Brainwriting & Brainstorming Activity for 250th celebration planning
• Approval of March 2025 meeting minutes
• Public comment period at 10:02 AM

The committee approved Christine Lee Buchholz's virtual participation by unanimous vote. The March 2025 minutes were also approved unanimously. The meeting was adjourned unanimously. Members agreed the next meeting will prioritize ideas and form sub‑committees for the 250th‑anniversary celebrations.

• Approved virtual participation for Christine Lee Buchholz (unanimous)
• Approved March 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

City Council: Council Agenda Meeting with Staff

This meeting consists of procedural boilerplate. The Mayor will meet with City Council staff to review the Council schedule and upcoming meeting agendas.

• Discussion of Council schedule and upcoming meeting agendas

The Mayor's agenda meeting on April 2, 2025 discussed scheduling of upcoming City Council items for April through June, including budget work sessions, proclamations, and ordinance readings. No actions were approved, denied, or tabled during this meeting.

Economic Development Authority

The Falls Church Economic Development Authority will discuss work plan updates including a cost-benefit analysis of reducing the BPOL professional services tax rate, a streetscape inventory survey for W Broad Streetscape improvements, and affordable housing at Virginia Village. They will also consider marketing program contracts, CRM software purchase, and holiday lighting expansion. Public comments may be submitted until March 31.

• Cost-benefit analysis of BPOL professional services tax rate reduction
• Streetscape inventory survey for W Broad Streetscape improvements
• Virginia Village affordable housing update
• Investigation of Customer Relationship Management software purchase
• Holiday lighting expansion on N & S Washington St

The board approved the March 4, 2025 meeting minutes (5‑0) and unanimously authorized a $8,000 streetscape inventory update. It then moved into a closed session to discuss a Letter of Intent for acquiring EDA‑owned land at Maple Avenue and Annandale Road (Parcel 52‑309‑115). Subsequent unanimous motions reconvened the open session, certified the limited scope of the closed session, and directed the Director of Economic Development to act on the discussed matters.

• Approved March 4, 2025 meeting minutes (5‑0)
• Approved $8,000 streetscape inventory update (unanimous)
• Authorized closed session to discuss Letter of Intent for Parcel 52‑309‑115 (unanimous)
• Moved to reconvene in open session and note no formal action taken (unanimous)
• Certified that only exempt matters were discussed in closed session (unanimous)
• Directed Director of Economic Development to proceed as discussed in executive session (unanimous)

Environmental Sustainability Council

The Education Task Group, a subcommittee of the Environmental Sustainability Council, is meeting to discuss activity planning for Operation EarthWatch.

• Operation EarthWatch activity planning

Human Services Advisory Council

The Human Services Advisory Council will discuss updates to the Housing and Human Services budget, the Community Services Fund, and the Emergency Financial Assistance Program. The council will also receive a presentation on the Affordable Living Policy.

• Housing and Human Services budget update – Dana Jones
• Northern Virginia Housing Expo at Meridian High School on April 12 – Ripal Patel
• Community Services Fund update – Ripal Patel
• Emergency Financial Assistance Program update – Dana Jones
• Affordable Living Policy presentation – Dana Jones

The Human Services Advisory Council adopted its agenda and approved the March meeting minutes. Members approved two new staff positions—a coordinator and a behavioral specialist—and a temporary change to the financial assistance policy. The council also endorsed the updated Affordable Living Policy and changed the recommendation letter amount to $15,000.

• Adopt agenda (unanimous)
• Approve March meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Change recommendation letter amount to $15,000 (agreed by chair)
• Approve HHS Coordinator and Behavioral Specialist positions (approved)
• Approve temporary change to Financial Assistance policy (approved)
• Endorse changes to Affordable Living Policy (unanimous)
• Adjourn meeting (unanimous)

Library Board of Trustees

The Mary Riley Styles Public Library Board of Trustees will meet to review library statistics and board minutes. The agenda includes a summary of written comments.

• Review of January statistics
• Review of February statistics
• Review of draft meeting minutes from February 5, 2025
• Discussion of summary of written comments

The Library Board approved the minutes from the January 15, 2025 meeting, with Elise Stein abstaining. The board noted the library will be closed on February 17 for President's Day. A verbal offer was made for the new Adult Services Programming and Outreach Librarian position. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved Jan 15, 2025 meeting minutes (5-0, 1 abstain)
• Library will close on Feb 17 for President's Day
• Adult Services Programming and Outreach Librarian position verbally offered
• Unanimously adjourned meeting (5-0)

Environmental Sustainability Council

The Environmental Sustainability Council will discuss the FY2026 budget, including the financial forecast, budget guidance, and proposed Capital Improvements Program. The council will also vote on a member to serve as Energy Transition Subcommittee (ETS) Overseer and consider a letter from the Falls Church Clean Air and Energy Network on proposed climate metrics. Additionally, the council will review its annual report and 2024 HRTG report, and adopt rules of procedure.

• Vote on ESC member to serve as Energy Transition Subcommittee (ETS) Overseer
• Discussion of FY2026 financial forecast, budget guidance, and proposed Capital Improvements Program
• Consideration of FCCAN letter on proposed metrics for city energy and climate goals
• Review and approval of ESC 2024 Annual Report draft
• Approval of February 2025 ESC minutes

The council unanimously approved the August meeting minutes. Members voted unanimously to appoint Matt C as the ETS Overseer. No other formal actions or votes were recorded at this meeting.

• Approved August meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Appointed Matt C as ETS Overseer (unanimous)

Arts and Humanities Council of Falls Church

The Arts and Humanities Council will meet to brainstorm city-initiated utility box art wraps and discuss developer-initiated public art processes. The body will also review planning for World Art Day and June city events.

• City-Initiated Utility Box Art Wraps Project brainstorming
• Developer-Initiated Public Art Process discussion
• World Art Day planning update
• Annual Report review
• Selection of AHC Representative for Memorial Day Parade

The council approved the minutes from the February 20 meeting, allowed a voting member to join virtually, and unanimously approved the AHC annual report subject to a final round of revisions. The Student Representative Involvement item was tabled until the next meeting, and the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved February 20 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved virtual participation for voting member Elise Bengston (unanimous)
• Approved AHC annual report subject to final revisions (unanimous)
• Tabled Student Representative Involvement until next meeting
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

City Council: Council Agenda Meeting with Staff

The Mayor will meet with City Council staff to review the Council schedule and upcoming meeting agendas. This is a procedural meeting.

• Discussion of Council schedule and upcoming meeting agendas

The March 12, 2025 Mayor’s Agenda Meeting with Staff was held to discuss scheduling items for upcoming City Council sessions. Attendees included all council members and several staff members. The meeting listed dates and topics for future council meetings, proclamations, budget work sessions, and other events. No substantive actions, approvals, or denials were recorded.

Urban Forestry Commission

The Urban Forestry Commission meets to review and discuss the draft 2024 report to City Council, along with staff updates on tree canopy coverage for commercial developments and Arbor Day planning. The agenda includes approval of February minutes, public comments, and future business. No votes on ordinances or contracts are scheduled.

• Review of Draft 2024 UFC Report to City Council
• Discussion of tree canopy coverage for commercial developments
• Arbor Day and April event planning
• Approval of February meeting minutes
• Public comment opportunity

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Falls Church Board of Zoning Appeals will consider three variance applications at its March 13 meeting. Each requests relief from setback or height requirements for residential additions. The board will also elect officers, approve the 2024 annual report, 2025 rules of procedure, and 2025 meeting calendar.

• Variance V1659-25: Seeking a 6.5-foot side yard setback instead of 8 feet for a screened porch at 1203A Lincoln Avenue (R-1B zoning).
• Variance V1661-25: Seeking a 26-foot rear yard setback instead of 40 feet for a second-story addition at 618 Laura Drive (R-1A zoning).
• Variance V1662-25: Seeking front setbacks of 26.5 ft and 20.2 ft instead of 30 ft, plus a 14.6-ft building height instead of 12 ft for a detached garage at 712 Parker Avenue (R-C zoning).
• Election of BZA Chair and Vice-Chair for 2025.
• Approval of the 2024 BZA Annual Report and 2025 BZA Rules of Procedures and Annual Meeting Calendar.

The Board of Zoning Appeals approved a variance for an upper-story addition at 712 Parker Avenue, allowing reduced front setbacks along Parker and Irving Streets, but continued the request for a taller detached garage pending City Council action on accessory dwelling units. Two other variance requests were continued: one for a screened porch at 1203A Lincoln Avenue and one for a new home at 618 Laura Drive. The Board also elected new officers and approved the 2024 annual report and meeting minutes.

• Approved variance V1662-25 for upper-story addition at 712 Parker Avenue (5-0)
• Continued variance V1662-25 for detached garage height at 712 Parker Avenue
• Continued variance V1659-25 for screened porch at 1203A Lincoln Avenue
• Continued variance V1661-25 for new home at 618 Laura Drive
• Elected Peter Kien as Chair and Dale Eppler as Vice Chair (5-0)
• Approved 2024 BZA Annual Report with corrections (5-0)
• Approved April and May 2025 meeting calendar (5-0)
• Approved November 14, 2024 meeting minutes (4-0-1 abstention)

City Council Committee: Legislative

The City Council Legislative Committee will review the Legislative Program Tracking Log and discuss the General Assembly budget status. The committee will also receive updates on the post-council briefing process and potential impacts of federal workforce and funding changes.

• Review of Legislative Program Tracking Log
• Discussion of Governor action deadline (March 24, 2025)
• Update on federal workforce and funding potential impacts

The Falls Church City Council Legislative Committee met on March 12, 2025, to review the General Assembly legislative program tracking log and discuss the Governor's action deadline of March 24, 2025, and the reconvene session on April 2, 2025. No formal decisions were made; the committee scheduled its next meeting for April 10, 2025, and will consider a special meeting after the Governor's deadline.

• Scheduled next meeting for April 10, 2025 at 9:00am
• Agreed to determine if a special meeting is needed after March 24 Governor deadline

Recreation & Parks Advisory Board

The Recreation & Parks Advisory Board will discuss and potentially recommend the 2025 Grand Marshal during a closed session, receive an update on the City Fitness Challenge, and review ongoing park and HVAC projects. Old business includes the 'No Smoking in the Parks' initiative.

• Closed session under VA Code to discuss honorary degrees/special awards and recommendation for 2025 Grand Marshal
• City Fitness Challenge Program update
• Park project updates
• HVAC project update
• No Smoking in the Parks discussion

The Falls Church Recreation & Parks Advisory Board met on March 12, 2025, and approved the minutes from its February 12 meeting. The board received updates on ongoing projects, including the Berman Park play area equipment order, geothermal well drilling, and the upcoming City Fitness Challenge. A closed session was held to discuss the recommendation for the 2025 Grand Marshal of the Memorial Day parade, which was certified by roll call vote.

• Approved February 12, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Held closed session to discuss 2025 Grand Marshal recommendation (unanimous)
• Certified closed session discussion limited to Grand Marshal recommendation (roll call vote)

City Council Committee: Appointments

The City Council Appointments Committee will interview candidates for vacancies on the FallsChurch250 Committee, City Employee Review Board, and Arts and Humanities Council. Three applicants are vying for a single FC250 opening, with one additional applicant deferred to a future meeting. The committee also considers an appointment request for the Arts and Humanities Council.

• New applicant Karen Kasmauski for FallsChurch250 Committee (Member At-Large, unexpired term 12/01/24–01/31/27)
• New applicant John Heather for FallsChurch250 Committee (same vacancy)
• New applicant Steve Mason, Sr. for City Employee Review Board (unexpired term 11/01/23–10/31/26)
• Appointment request: Joanne Caramanica for Arts and Humanities Council (Friends of Cherry Hill Representative, unexpired term 03/01/24–02/28/27)
• Additional FC250 applicant Callie Hawkins to be interviewed at a future meeting

The Falls Church City Council Appointments Committee met to interview candidates for board and commission vacancies. They interviewed Karen Kasmauski and John Heather for the Falls Church250 Committee, and Steve Mason Sr. for the City Employee Review Board. No formal appointments were made at this meeting; the committee discussed applicants and scheduled a future interview for Callie Hawkins.

• Interviewed Karen Kasmauski for Falls Church250 Committee (Member At-Large)
• Interviewed John Heather for Falls Church250 Committee (Member At-Large)
• Interviewed Steve Mason Sr. for City Employee Review Board (Unexpired Term)
• Discussed appointment request for Joanne Caramanica to Arts and Humanities Council (Friends of Cherry Hill Representative)
• Scheduled future interview for Callie Hawkins for Falls Church250 Committee

Citizens Advisory Committee on Transportation

The Citizens Advisory Committee on Transportation will vote on a safety memo for Oak Street Elementary School and consider adopting all-virtual meeting dates for 2025. The committee will also receive updates on DPW, the Missing Links Program, sidewalk repairs, and the CIP quarterly, along with a discussion on N West Street and Park Avenue.

• ACTION ITEM: Oak Street Elementary School Safety Memo
• Discussion Item: N West Street and Park Avenue Memo
• Information Item: Missing Links Program Update
• Information Item: Sidewalk Repairs Update
• Information Item: CIP Quarterly Update

The Falls Church Citizens Advisory Committee on Transportation (CACT) voted 6-0 to keep May through June meetings in-person, rejecting a proposal to go virtual. The committee also approved the February minutes 4-0 and received updates on sidewalk repairs, the Missing Links Program, and traffic calming projects. No public comment was heard.

• Approved February 12, 2025 minutes (4-0)
• Voted 6-0 to keep May-June meetings in-person
• Motion to extend meeting to 9:30 PM passed (6-0)
• Motion to extend meeting to 9:40 PM passed (6-0)
• Adjourned meeting (6-0)

City Council: Council Agenda Meeting with Staff

This is a procedural meeting where the Mayor and City Council staff will review the Council's schedule and upcoming agendas. No votes or specific proposals are on the agenda. The meeting is open to the public.

• Discussion of Council schedule and upcoming meeting agendas (Item 3)

The City Council meeting was procedural, focused solely on scheduling upcoming agenda items. No substantive decisions were made. Key items scheduled include budget work sessions and public hearings, a Fairfax County sewer capacity purchase agreement, and a tree canopy ordinance initiating resolution.

• Scheduled March 24 regular session with tree canopy ordinance initiating resolution and budget presentations
• Scheduled April 14 regular session with budget and CIP ordinances first reading and accessory dwellings second reading
• Scheduled April 28 regular session with budget public hearing and sewer capacity purchase agreement approval
• Scheduled May 12 regular session with budget and CIP ordinances second reading and public hearing

Housing Commission

The Housing Commission will review the Affordable Housing Fund budget and a draft of the Affordable Living Policy. The body may vote to approve a letter of support and the policy draft.

• Affordable Housing Fund Budget Review
• Motion to approve Letter of Support
• Affordable Living Policy Draft Review and potential motion to approve
• Affordable Housing Report

The Housing Commission reviewed the Affordable Housing Fund budget and the draft Affordable Living Policy, providing feedback on fund allocation language and policy goals. The commission approved a motion to support the Affordable Housing Six-Year Plan. No final decisions were made on the Affordable Living Policy draft, as the group will wait for a revised version before issuing a letter of support.

• Approved motion to support the Affordable Housing Six-Year Plan (moved by Jordan, seconded by Sara)
• Approved minutes from previous meeting (moved by Sara, seconded by Jordan)
• Tabled Affordable Living Policy draft approval pending revised version
• Agreed to provide Sara with the ALP draft for further feedback

Aurora House Citizens' Advisory Committee

The Aurora House Citizens' Advisory Committee is holding a regular meeting to discuss routine business including the naming of a parklet/reflection garden, scholarship matters, and the Group Home Manager's report. Public comments are accepted until 7:00 p.m. on March 11, 2025. The agenda includes only procedural and discussion items with no specific dollar amounts or binding decisions listed.

• Group Home Manager’s Report
• Parklet/Reflection Garden Naming
• Scholarships discussion
• Approval of prior meeting minutes

The Aurora House Citizens' Advisory Committee met on March 11, 2025, and approved the January 14, 2025 minutes with edits. They discussed naming the reflection garden's inner space, with the preferred name being 'The Christina Goodwin Reflection Garden,' and planned a Celebration of Life for Christina on April 26th. The committee also discussed scholarships, with plans to make multiple payments to an applicant to confirm progress, and reviewed the manager's report on programs, staffing, and the scholarship fund.

• Approved the January 14, 2025 meeting minutes with edits.
• Discussed naming the reflection garden's inner space, preferring 'The Christina Goodwin Reflection Garden'.
• Planned Christina's Celebration of Life for April 26th at 11:00am in the reflection garden, with a reception at Ireland's 4 Provinces.
• Scheduled planting rounds for the reflection garden on March 22nd and the second week of April.
• Discussed making multiple scholarship payments to the applicant to confirm program progress.
• Noted the oven purchase and installation is in a holding pattern pending permits.
• No new business was discussed.

Aurora House Citizens' Advisory Committee

The Aurora House Citizens' Advisory Committee will meet to review the Group Home Manager's report and discuss the naming of the Reflection Garden. The committee will also address scholarships and follow up on facility needs and activities.

• Reflection Garden Naming
• Scholarships
• Group Home Manager's Report
• Follow-ups on oven status and Aurora House needs
• Christina's Celebration of Life

City Council Committee: Government Operations

The Government Operations Committee is meeting to discuss a roadmap for city process improvements. No votes or specific proposals are listed; the agenda is largely procedural with a single discussion item.

• Discussion of Roadmap for City Process Improvements

The Government Operations Committee met and discussed a roadmap for city process improvements. No formal decisions or votes were recorded; the meeting was informational and procedural only.

Falls Church250 Committee

The Falls Church250 Committee will meet on March 4, 2025, to consider approval of January 2025 minutes, receive feedback from member organizations, and discuss the committee's structure. Public comment is also scheduled. The meeting is largely procedural with one substantive new business item.

• Approval of January 2025 minutes
• Report feedback from member organizations
• Discussion of Falls Church250 Committee Structure
• Public comment period

The Falls Church250 Committee met on March 4, 2025, and unanimously approved the January 2025 minutes. Members shared feedback from their organizations on themes and programming for the 250th anniversary. The committee decided that library staff will lead a brainstorming session at the next meeting to set goals and priorities.

• Approved January 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Set brainstorming session for next meeting to determine goals and priorities

Economic Development Authority

The Economic Development Authority will finalize its 2025 Work Plan and Budget Priorities and elect a member to serve on the West Falls Community Development Authority. The board will also hear updates on Virginia Village, the 2025 Restaurant Week, parklet naming and signage, and a Kaiser Public Parking Agreement. The meeting includes a farewell to member James Snyder.

• Election of a member to the West Falls Community Development Authority
• Finalization of EDA 2025 Work Plan & Budget Priorities
• Discussion of Kaiser Public Parking Agreement
• Update on Virginia Village development
• Farewell to departing member James Snyder

The Falls Church Economic Development Authority approved spending up to $10,000 for consultant services for the 2025 Falls Church Fitness Challenge and unanimously adopted the 2025 work plan minus item 14. The board also approved remote participation for two members and elected Alan Brangman to represent the EDA on the West Falls Community Development Authority.

• Approved remote participation for Matt Quinn (unanimous)
• Approved February 4, 2025 meeting minutes (4-0, 1 abstention)
• Elected Alan Brangman to West Falls Community Development Authority (unanimous)
• Approved remote participation for Rachelle Barimany (unanimous)
• Approved up to $10,000 for consultant services for 2025 Falls Church Fitness Challenge (unanimous)
• Adopted 2025 work plan minus item 14 (unanimous)

Electoral Board

The Falls Church Electoral Board will determine its own officers, discuss performance of election officers in a closed session, and appoint additional officers of election. The board will also begin preparations for the June 17 primary elections. Public comment is invited at the start of the meeting.

• Determination of Electoral Board Officers
• Discussion of Officer of Elections Performance (closed session under Va. Code §2.2-3711(A)(1))
• Appoint Additional Officers of Election
• Preparation for June 17 Primary Elections
• Public comment period

City Council: Council Agenda Meeting with Staff

This is a procedural staff meeting where the Mayor and City Council staff discuss the council's schedule and upcoming meeting agendas. No votes or policy decisions are expected. The public may attend virtually or submit comments via email.

• Discussion of council schedule and upcoming meeting agendas
• Public comments may be submitted to cityclerk@fallschurchva.gov

The City Council approved electronic participation by Laura Downs for personal reasons, with a 4-0 roll call vote. The meeting was otherwise procedural, focusing on scheduling future agenda items, including ordinances on pedestrian protection, firearm destruction, and accessory dwellings.

• Approved remote participation for Laura Downs (4-0)

Public Utilities Commission

The Public Utilities Commission will receive an update on the Capital Improvement Program and discuss the City's Phase III Chesapeake Bay Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) Action Plan, a regulatory plan for reducing pollution. The meeting includes public comment and approval of previous minutes.

• Capital Improvement Program Update (presented by Tony Dudley)
• City's Phase III Chesapeake Bay Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) Action Plan (presented by Behailu Kifle)
• Public comments accepted until 4pm the day of the meeting via email

The Public Utility Commission met virtually and approved the minutes from the July 17, 2024 meeting. They received briefings on the Comprehensive Plan Amendment for Community Facilities, Public Utilities, and Government Services, and on proposed stormwater code updates, including modifications for Chesapeake Bay Preservation Act and Virginia Erosion and Stormwater Management Act requirements. No formal decisions were made on these items; the commission was asked to provide feedback on the comprehensive plan scope and schedule.

• Approved minutes from July 17, 2024 meeting
• Received briefing on Comprehensive Plan Amendment kickoff
• Received briefing on stormwater code update

City Council Committee: Budget & Finance

The Falls Church City Council Budget & Finance Committee will discuss the FY2025 second quarter financial report and an update on the FY2026 budget. The committee will also consider the impact of the federal funding freeze on city finances. No votes or decisions are scheduled; items are for discussion only.

• FY2025 Second Quarter Report review
• FY2026 Budget Update
• Discussion of Impact of Federal Funding Freeze

The Budget & Finance Committee met to discuss the FY2025 Second Quarter Report, the FY2026 Budget Update, and the impact of the federal funding freeze. No formal votes or decisions were taken; the items were discussion-only. The meeting adjourned without any substantive actions.

Environmental Sustainability Council

The Environmental Sustainability Council and Energy Transition Subcommittee will meet to review reports on accessory dwellings and the Urban Land Institute Technical Assistance Panel. The body will discuss LEED Cities and CEAP metrics strategies. The meeting includes the election of officers and the adoption of the 2025 meeting schedule.

• ESC Accessory Dwellings Memo
• Urban Land Institute Technical Assistance Panel Review
• LEED Cities Discussion
• ESC 2023 Annual Report
• CEAP Metrics Strategies

The Environmental Sustainability Council unanimously approved a memo with comments on the accessory dwelling proposal for submission to the City Council. The council also approved its remote participation policy, adopted the 2025 meeting schedule with changes for June and December, and re-elected Joseph Schiarizzi as chair and Mike Trauberman as vice-chair. No public comments were received, and the January minutes were approved.

• Approved January ESC minutes (unanimous)
• Approved ESC Accessory Dwelling Memo for submission to City Council (unanimous)
• Approved remote participation policy (unanimous)
• Adopted 2025 meeting schedule with June 12 and December cancellation (unanimous)
• Re-elected Joseph Schiarizzi as chair (unanimous)
• Re-elected Mike Trauberman as vice-chair (unanimous)

Arts and Humanities Council of Falls Church

The Arts & Humanities Council will meet to discuss the annual report and grant program funding. The body will also review the developer-initiated public art process and brainstorm utility box art wraps.

• Arts & Humanities Grant Program Funding discussion
• Developer-Initiated Public Art Process discussion
• City-Initiated Utility Box Art Wraps Project brainstorming
• Falls Church250 Committee brief

The Arts and Humanities Council discussed its annual report and agreed to submit it to the City Council, with members asked to send additions by March 10. The council also discussed advocating for a minimum $25,000 increase in the arts and humanities grant program, its first in over 10 years. No formal votes were taken on these items; the only decisions were approving the January minutes and adjourning.

• Approved January 20, 2025 meeting minutes with one correction (unanimous)
• Agreed to complete annual report by March meeting and submit to City Council
• Discussed advocating for $25,000+ increase in grant program funding
• Tabled further discussion on developer-initiated public art process
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

City Council: Council Agenda Meeting with Staff

The Mayor will meet with City Council staff to review the Council schedule and upcoming meeting agendas. This is a procedural meeting open to the public.

• Discussion of Council schedule and upcoming meeting agendas

The City Council met to schedule upcoming agenda items. No final decisions were made; the meeting was procedural, outlining future discussions and votes, including a Feb 24 endorsement of the Sherrow Ave Bridge design and a deferral of accessory dwellings to April 14.

• Scheduled Feb 24 motion to endorse Sherrow Ave Bridge Project Design
• Scheduled Feb 24 motion to defer accessory dwellings (AD) to April 14
• Scheduled Feb 24 contract authorization for fire suppression/alarm inspections
• Scheduled Feb 24 public hearing on parklet names (TR25-07)
• Scheduled Feb 24 2nd reading and public hearing on Hunting Code Update (TO25-01)
• Scheduled March 10 H-1B sponsorship action (tentative)
• Scheduled March 10 1st readings on pedestrian protection and firearm destruction ordinances
• Scheduled April 14 2nd reading and public hearing on accessory dwellings (TO24-17)

Urban Forestry Commission

The Urban Forestry Commission will discuss a proposal on tree canopy minimum for commercial developments and receive updates on the ULI TAP meeting for the Gordon Road Triangle and the Fellows Property Park Management Plan. The Commission will also consider its 2025 Rules of Procedure, select the 2025 Tree of the Year, and review a draft 2024 report to City Council.

• Proposal on tree canopy minimum for commercial developments
• ULI TAP meeting on Gordon Road Triangle
• Status of Fellows Property Park Management Plan
• 2025 Tree of the Year selection
• Draft 2024 UFC Report to City Council

The Urban Forestry Commission approved its 2025 Rules of Procedure and Electronic Meeting Participation, selected the Swamp Chestnut Oak as the 2025 Tree of the Year, and approved the January 15, 2025 meeting minutes. Commissioners also commented on the draft 2024 report to City Council, which will be updated by the chair. No public comment was received.

• Approved January 15, 2025 meeting minutes (voice vote)
• Approved 2025 Rules of Procedure and Electronic Meeting Participation (voice vote)
• Selected Swamp Chestnut Oak as 2025 Tree of the Year (vote)
• Commented on draft 2024 UFC Report to City Council; chair to update

City Council Committee: Legislative

The Advisory Board of Recreation and Parks will meet on February 12, 2025 to approve January 8 minutes, hear a Recreation Director's report, and discuss new and old business. New business includes a report on the Urban Land Institute Technical Assistance Panel (ULI TAP). Old business features a community presentation on the Fellows Property Master Plan.

• Report from board members on the Urban Land Institute Technical Assistance Panel (ULI TAP)
• Fellows' property community presentation on the Fellows Property Master Plan
• Approval of minutes from January 8, 2025
• Receipt of public petitions and board member petitions
• Recreation Director's report

The Falls Church City Council Legislative Committee met on February 14, 2025, and approved a motion allowing Council Member David Snyder to participate virtually due to a medical condition. The committee also discussed the status of state legislation on affordable dwelling units and accessory dwelling units, as well as potential impacts of federal workforce and funding changes. No other formal decisions were made.

• Approved remote participation for Council Member David Snyder (voice vote)

Retirement Board

The Falls Church Retirement Board will meet in person with virtual access on February 13, 2025. Key action items include approving disability and pre-retirement death benefit changes, electing officers, and reviewing ethics and administrative policies. Board will also receive second-quarter FY25 reports on defined benefit and contribution plans.

• Second quarter FY25 reports on Basic and Police Pension Plans and OPEB (informational)
• Trustee term appointments and officer elections (action)
• Disability and pre-retirement death benefits update with attachments (action)
• 2025 COLA report for Basic and Police Pension Plans (informational)
• OPEB Implicit Subsidy Policy Council adoption update (informational)

Recreation & Parks Advisory Board

The Recreation & Parks Advisory Board will consider approving January meeting minutes, receive a Recreation Director's report, hear a report from board members on the Urban Land Institute Technical Assistance Panel, and discuss the Fellows Property Master Plan as old business.

• Minutes for approval: January 8, 2025
• New Business: Report from board members on The Urban Land Institute Technical Assistance Panel (ULI TAP)
• Old Business: Fellows property community presentation - Fellows Property Master Plan

The board received the final Master Plan for Fellows Park, presented by Al Astorga, and heard public concerns about a sidewalk along Parkers Avenue, preserving the firefly habitat, and park lighting. The board and staff assured the public that these issues would be considered in final planning. No formal decisions were made on the plan; it was only presented and discussed.

• Approved minutes of January 8, 2025 (all in favor)
• Received final Master Plan for Fellows Park (no vote)
• Noted public concerns on sidewalk, fireflies, lighting for future consideration

City Council Committee: Appointments

The City Council Appointments Committee will interview six new applicants and consider five reappointment requests for various city boards and commissions, including the Economic Development Authority, Housing Commission, and Arts & Humanities Council. The meeting focuses on filling vacancies and extending terms for current members.

• New applicants for Economic Development Authority: Alan Brangman, Olivia Jeffers, Lauren McGlinch
• Reappointment request: Matthew Quinn – Economic Development Authority (term 12/01/24 – 11/30/28)
• New applicant: Isaac Kennan – Community Criminal Justice Board (term 10/01/24 – 09/30/28)
• New applicant: Galina Tarasova – Housing Commission (unexpired term)
• Reappointment requests: Mary Sellers (Arts & Humanities Council), Michael Trauberman and Matthew Cunningham (Environmental Sustainability Council), Tiffany Morris and Cinda Rose (Historic Architecture Review Board)

The Falls Church City Council Appointments Committee met on February 12, 2025, to interview prospective candidates for various boards and commissions, discuss applicants and reappointments, and conduct exit interviews. The committee approved electronic participation for Erin Flynn due to medical reasons. No final appointments were made during this meeting; the committee went into closed session to discuss candidates and certified the closed session as lawful.

• Approved electronic participation for Erin Flynn (unanimous)
• Conducted interviews with candidates for Economic Development Authority, Community Criminal Justice Board, Housing Commission, Aurora House Citizens’ Advisory Committee, and others
• Discussed reappointment requests for multiple boards and commissions
• Entered closed session to discuss prospective candidates (unanimous)
• Certified closed session as lawful (unanimous)

Citizens Advisory Committee on Transportation

The Citizens Advisory Committee on Transportation will vote on the 2024 CACT Annual Report to City Council and the 2024 Transportation Dashboard. The committee will also discuss safety improvements at Oak Street Elementary School and potential changes at N West Street and Park Avenue. Updates from the Department of Public Works and the NTC will be presented as information items.

• ACTION ITEM: Adoption of 2024 CACT Annual Report to City Council
• ACTION ITEM: Adoption of 2024 Transportation Dashboard
• Discussion Item: Oak Street Elementary School Safety Memo
• Discussion Item: N West Street and Park Avenue Memo
• Information Item: DPW Update

The Falls Church Citizens Advisory Committee on Transportation (CACT) voted 6-0 to adopt its 2024 Annual Report, removing the transportation dashboard appendix and adding a sentence noting the dashboard is still being collected. The committee also voted 6-0 to keep March through May meetings in-person. Other actions included approving January minutes and adjourning.

• Adopted 2024 CACT Annual Report with dashboard appendix removed (6-0)
• Kept March-May 2025 meetings in-person (6-0)
• Approved January 14, 2025 minutes (6-0)
• Adjourned meeting (6-0)

Human Services Advisory Council

The Human Services Advisory Council will meet to consider a recommendation for Community Services Fund grants and receive an update on the Affordable Living Policy process. The council will also announce a vacancy and handle routine business like approving minutes and hearing public comments. No dollar amounts or specific grant figures are listed in the agenda.

• Community Services Fund grant recommendation – Ripal Patel, Staff
• Affordable Living Policy process update – Dana Jones and Jeff Person
• HSAC vacancy announcement
• Approval of minutes from previous meeting
• Public comment period (written submissions accepted until deadline)

The Human Services Advisory Council approved the full allocation of $86,277.00 in Community Services Fund grants for fiscal year 2026, based on agency requests. The council also voted to advocate to City Council for an additional $20,000 for financial assistance and to propose the CSF budget to City Council. No public comments were made, and the January minutes were approved.

• Approved agenda unanimously
• Approved January minutes unanimously
• Allocated full $86,277.00 CSF amount for 2026
• Approved motion to advocate for $20,000 financial assistance from City Council
• Approved motion to propose CSF budget to City Council for FY 2026

Library Board of Trustees

The Mary Riley Styles Public Library Board of Trustees will meet to discuss agenda items and review the draft meeting minutes from January 15, 2025. The provided text contains only procedural information and does not list specific decisions or proposals.

• Review of draft meeting minutes from January 15, 2025

The Library Board approved the December 18, 2024 meeting minutes as corrected and rescheduled its February 19 meeting to February 5 to better accommodate the FY2026 budget discussion. The board received updates on the new local history digital archive, December statistics, and staffing, and discussed the budget process with a zero-growth directive for operating expenses and a 5% salary increase for permanent employees.

• Approved December 18, 2024 meeting minutes as corrected
• Rescheduled February 19 board meeting to February 5 for budget discussion

Board of Equalization

The Board of Equalization will meet to approve previous minutes and sign decision letters. The body will also conduct a hearing regarding a residential appeal.

• Appeal 004-24AB – Residential

The Falls Church Board of Equalization met and approved the previous meeting's minutes. The board heard appeal 004-24AB from property owner David Johnson regarding the assessment of 711 Poplar Dr., but the minutes do not record the board's decision on the appeal. The meeting was otherwise procedural.

• Approved minutes from January 22, 2025 (unanimous)
• Heard appeal 004-24AB by David Johnson for 711 Poplar Dr.; no decision recorded in minutes

Housing Commission

The Falls Church Housing Commission will review the Affordable Housing Fund budget, discuss The Fields project, and receive updates on housing programs including the Affordable Homeownership Program and VA Village. A motion to approve a letter of support is scheduled.

• Affordable Housing Fund Budget Review and comment
• Motion to approve letter of support
• The Fields Update
• Affordable Homeownership Program Update
• VA Village Update

The Housing Commission reviewed the proposed Affordable Housing Fund budget for FY26-31, discussing priorities including preservation, senior programs, and a community needs assessment. No formal votes were taken; the budget will return for approval in March. The commission also received updates on housing occupancy and the affordable homeownership program.

• Approved meeting minutes
• Agreed to move community needs assessment to 2026
• Agreed to start homeownership and AH Sponsorship in 2027
• Agreed to keep CCAU funding unchanged
• Agreed to keep Welcoming Falls Church unchanged
• Agreed to remove uncertain items from budget proposal
• Agreed to leave housing preservation unfunded amount in place

Economic Development Authority

The Economic Development Authority will discuss its 2025 work plan and budget priorities. The body will also receive updates on city projects, business openings, and urban land studies.

• Discussion of EDA 2025 Work Plan & Budget Priorities
• Update on EDA resolution regarding Accessory Dwelling amendment
• ULI Broad & Washington Case Study and Gordon Rd Triangle Technical Assistance Panel updates
• Whole Foods Grand Opening scheduled for February 7
• Discussion of Brown’s Hardware celebration and Greater Falls Church Foodie Trek

The Falls Church Economic Development Authority voted 6-0 (with one abstention) to send a letter to City Council generally supporting the accessory dwelling initiative, pending details being worked out by other bodies. The EDA decided not to fund the proposed 'Greater Falls Church Foodie Trek' at $500 per quarter. Minutes from the January 8, 2025 meeting were approved unanimously. The board also discussed marketing, the ULI case study and TAP event, Brown's Hardware celebration, and the 2025 work plan.

• Approved January 8, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Passed motion to support accessory dwelling initiative, 6-0 with 1 abstention
• Declined to fund Greater Falls Church Foodie Trek at $500/quarter

City Council: Council Agenda Meeting with Staff

The Falls Church City Council is holding a procedural meeting with staff to review the council schedule and upcoming meeting agendas. No policy decisions or public hearings are scheduled. Public comments may be submitted via email.

• Discuss council schedule and upcoming meeting agendas

The Falls Church City Council held a scheduling meeting and approved a motion allowing Councilmember Letty Hardi to participate electronically due to personal reasons, with a 4-0 roll call vote. The meeting also outlined upcoming agenda items, including discussions on hunting code updates, towing ordinances, and various contract authorizations, but no other formal decisions were made.

• Approved electronic participation for Letty Hardi (4-0)

City Council Committee: Legislative

The City Council Legislative Committee is meeting to discuss legislative outreach and track the status of several state bills. The committee will review updates on affordable and accessory dwelling units as well as photo speed enforcement legislation.

• Status of SB1011 and HB2137 regarding Affordable Dwelling Units
• Status of SB932 regarding Accessory Dwelling Units
• Status of photo speed and stop sign enforcement legislation
• VTA Transit Advocacy Day agenda and legislative outreach review
• VML Local Government Day timeline and agenda review

The Falls Church City Council Legislative Committee met to review upcoming advocacy events and track state legislation. No formal votes or decisions were made; the meeting was procedural, focusing on agenda planning and status updates for bills on affordable housing, accessory dwelling units, and photo speed enforcement.

• Reviewed VTA Transit Advocacy Day agenda and legislative outreach
• Reviewed VML Local Government Day timeline and agenda for Jan 30th
• Discussed status of SB1011 and HB2137 on Affordable Dwelling Units
• Discussed status of SB932 on Accessory Dwelling Units
• Reviewed status of photo speed and stop sign enforcement legislation
• Reviewed Legislative Program Tracking Log
• Discussed committee hearing and testimony comments

Falls Church250 Committee

The Falls Church250 Committee will meet to establish its organizational structure and objectives. The body is scheduled to elect officers and adopt rules of procedure.

• Election of Chair, Vice Chair, and Secretary
• Adoption of Rules of Procedure
• Determination of goals and outcomes
• Approval of December 2024 minutes

The Falls Church250 Committee approved its Rules of Procedure and elected Jim Coyle as Chair and Bill Ackerman as Vice Chair. The committee also agreed to hold additional meetings in March and May to plan 250th anniversary events. Members will gather input from their organizations on commemorative themes and report back at the next meeting.

• Approved December 2024 minutes (unanimous)
• Adopted Rules of Procedure (unanimous)
• Elected Jim Coyle as Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Bill Ackerman as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Scheduled additional meetings for March 4 and May 6, 2025

Affordable Housing Workgroup

The Affordable Living Policy Update Workgroup is meeting to review minutes from November 20, receive a process overview, hear a presentation from the NVAHA team on the ALP, and discuss the draft ALP. Public comments may be submitted by email until 6:30 pm the evening of the meeting.

• Review of November 20th ALP Workgroup meeting minutes
• Process overview by staff
• ALP presentation by NVAHA team
• Discussion of draft Affordable Living Policy

The Affordable Living Policy Workgroup reviewed and approved changes to the draft policy, including adjusting the rental housing goal from 3% to 8% and revising several goals based on member feedback. The group also discussed the action plan timeline and set a February 1st comment deadline. All proposed changes were approved unanimously.

• Approved minutes from November 20th meeting
• Approved all draft policy changes, including rental housing goal increase to 8%
• Set February 1st deadline for public comments on draft policy
• Discussed but did not finalize action plan, to be developed after this meeting

Board of Equalization

The Falls Church Board of Equalization is meeting to hear three appeals (004-24AB, 005-24AB, 014-24AB) regarding property assessments. No details on the specific properties or amounts are provided in the agenda. The meeting also includes approval of previous minutes and other procedural items.

• Hearing of Appeal 004-24AB
• Hearing of Appeal 005-24AB
• Hearing of Appeal 014-24AB
• Approval of previous minutes

The Board of Equalization unanimously affirmed the assessor's 2024 assessed value of $129,598,300 for the commercial property at 410 S Maple St (Pearson Square), denying the appellant's request to reduce it to $75,550,000. The board also approved the minutes from January 15 and 16, 2025, and rescheduled Appeal 004-24AB to February 5, 2025.

• Affirmed assessor's value of $129,598,300 for Appeal 014-24AB (unanimous)
• Denied appellant's request to reduce value to $75,550,000
• Approved minutes from January 15 and 16, 2025 (unanimous)
• Rescheduled Appeal 004-24AB to February 5, 2025

City Council: Council Agenda Meeting with Staff

The Mayor will meet with City Council staff to review the Council schedule and upcoming meeting agendas. This is a procedural meeting.

• Discussion of Council schedule and upcoming meeting agendas

The City Council approved electronic participation by Laura Downs for the January 22 meeting due to her car not starting, with a 4-0 roll call vote. The meeting was primarily to schedule agenda items, and no other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved electronic participation for Laura Downs (4-0)

Human Services Advisory Council

The Human Services Advisory Council will hold a brief 30-minute meeting to introduce new Police Chief Shahram Fard, receive Community Services Fund grant presentations from The Learning Quests and Easterseals, and receive an update on the Affordable Living Policy process. Public comments must be submitted by December 10, 2024.

• Meet and Greet with new Police Chief Shahram Fard
• Community Services Fund grant presentation: The Learning Quests (7:00 PM)
• Community Services Fund grant presentation: Easterseals (7:20 PM)
• Affordable Living Policy process update from Dana Jones and Jeff Person
• Regional commission updates from Social Services and Juvenile Justice liaisons

The Human Services Advisory Council met, approved the agenda and prior minutes, and heard from new Police Chief Shahram Fard, who explained that the department's state accreditation lapsed in 2020 and that regaining accreditation is a top priority. The council also received grant presentations from The Learning Quest and Easterseals, and discussed updates on the Affordable Living Policy process and regional commission matters. No formal votes were taken on substantive policy items.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved prior meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Moved next meeting to February 6th at 6:30 PM (unanimous)

Environmental Sustainability Council

The Environmental Sustainability Council will hold its annual business meeting, including election of officers and adoption of rules and meeting schedule. They will also discuss the Energy Facility Siting and Permitting Memo, an update on state single-staircase rules, accessory dwelling unit planning, and an EECBG subgrant application. No dollar amounts are specified in the agenda for the subgrant or other items.

• Election of officers for 2025
• Energy Facility Siting and Permitting Memo discussion
• Update on State Single Staircase Apartment Building Rules
• Recap of Planning Commission Accessory Dwellings Listening Session and comments to be submitted
• EECBG Subgrant Application consideration (no dollar amount given)

The Environmental Sustainability Council held its annual business meeting, adopting its rules of procedure, remote participation and all-virtual participation policies, and the 2025 meeting schedule (with June moved to June 12). The election of officers was postponed to February. The council also discussed but did not vote on the accessory dwelling proposal, and approved a subgrant application for free home energy audits.

• Adopted rules of procedure (unanimous)
• Approved remote participation policy with pronoun changes (unanimous)
• Approved all-virtual participation policy (unanimous)
• Adopted 2025 meeting schedule with June 12 date (unanimous)
• Approved EECBG subgrant application for free home energy audits (unanimous)

Board of Equalization

The Board of Equalization will meet virtually to review and decide on three specific appeals. The body will also vote to approve minutes from a previous meeting.

• Appeal 011-24AB
• Appeal 012-24AB
• Appeal 013-24AB

The Board of Equalization heard three commercial property tax appeals and voted unanimously to affirm the assessor's original values in all three cases, finding the appellants did not provide enough evidence. The board also tabled approval of the January 15 minutes to its January 22 meeting.

• Affirmed assessor's value of $17,206,800 for 201 N Washington St (3-0)
• Affirmed assessor's value of $40,176,500 for 450 N Washington St (3-0)
• Affirmed assessor's value of $6,765,300 for 330 N Washington St (3-0)
• Tabled approval of Jan 15 minutes to Jan 22 meeting

Arts and Humanities Council of Falls Church

The Arts and Humanities Council will meet to adopt formal rules of procedure and elect a Chair and Vice Chair. Members will also discuss the annual report, the Arts and Humanities Grant Program funding, and a developer-initiated public art process.

• Adopt Rules of Procedure
• Elect Chair and Vice Chair
• Annual Report Discussion
• Arts and Humanities Grant Program Funding Discussion
• Developer-Initiated Public Art Process Discussion

The Arts and Humanities Council of Falls Church adopted its first Rules of Procedure, subject to City Clerk review, and unanimously elected Laura Connors Hull as Chair and Ronald Anzalone as Vice Chair. The council also approved the December 2024 minutes and discussed producing a 2024 annual report, with members asked to submit information by January 30. No funding decisions were made; the council discussed advocating for increased grant funding and reviewed a draft letter on developer-initiated public art, with further discussion planned for February.

• Adopted Rules of Procedure as modified, subject to City Clerk review (unanimous)
• Elected Laura Connors Hull as Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Ronald Anzalone as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Approved December 19, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned at 11:30 am (unanimous)

Library Board of Trustees

The Falls Church Library Board of Trustees will discuss and potentially approve the FY2026 Budget Guidance Resolution. The board will also review draft minutes from the December 18, 2024 meeting and receive library statistics.

• FY2026 Budget Guidance Resolution
• Approval of draft meeting minutes from December 18, 2024
• Review of library statistics

The Falls Church Library Board of Trustees met on December 18, 2024, and approved the November 20 meeting minutes. The board discussed a resident's petition to purchase call booths but took no formal action, instead directing staff to research costs and alternatives. The board also received reports on library statistics, staffing, programs, and city developments.

• Approved November 20, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Discussed call booth petition; no decision, staff to research costs and alternatives
• Adjourned meeting at 6:47 p.m. (unanimous)

Board of Equalization

The Falls Church Board of Equalization will hold a hearing to consider three property assessment appeals: one residential (Appeal 020-24AB) and two commercial (Appeals 017-24AB and 019-24AB). The board will also approve previous meeting minutes and sign decision letters.

• Appeal 020-24AB – Residential property assessment
• Appeal 017-24AB – Commercial property assessment
• Appeal 019-24AB – Commercial property assessment
• Approve previous meeting minutes and sign decision letters

The Board of Equalization heard three property assessment appeals and affirmed the assessor's values in all cases, finding appellants did not provide enough evidence. The board also approved the minutes from the previous meetings. No items were tabled.

• Affirmed assessor's value of $1,794,100 for 511 E. Columbia St. (2-0)
• Affirmed assessor's revised value of $127,189,800 for 110 Founders Ave (unanimous)
• Affirmed assessor's original values for 101, 106, & 121 Founders Ave (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from January 13-14, 2025 (unanimous)

Public Utilities Commission

The Falls Church Public Utilities Commission will meet to discuss a proposed update to the city's stormwater code, presented by staff liaison Behailu Kifle. The agenda also includes public comment, approval of previous meeting minutes, and open discussion.

• City Stormwater Code update

Urban Forestry Commission

The Urban Forestry Commission will meet to establish its 2025 priorities and FY26 budget priorities. The body will also review the 2024 Annual Report to City Council.

• 2025 UFC Priorities
• FY26 Budget Priorities
• 2024 UFC Annual Report to City Council
• Tree of the Year (February)

The Urban Forestry Commission approved its October 2024 meeting minutes and identified tree canopy and tree inventory as its 2025 priorities. Staff will draft a proposal for a minimum tree canopy requirement for business districts for the City Council's March 10 meeting, and will request partial funding for a tree inventory. No formal votes were taken on substantive policy decisions.

• Approved minutes of October 16, 2024 meeting (voice vote)
• Identified Tree Canopy and Tree Inventory as 2025 priorities
• Commissioner Jennifer to draft memo on private tree care reminders
• Staff to prepare tree canopy requirement proposal for Council March 10 meeting
• Staff to request partial funding for tree inventory

Citizens Advisory Committee on Transportation

The Citizens Advisory Committee on Transportation will elect a chair and vice chair, adopt rules of procedure and remote participation policies, and take action on a recommendation to City Council for the Bicycle Master Plan. They will also discuss the draft 2024 annual report and set 2025 priorities.

• Election of Chair and Vice Chair
• Adoption of CACT Rules of Procedure and remote/virtual participation policies
• ACTION ITEM: Bicycle Master Plan Recommendation to Council, supported by multiple studies and public comments
• Review of Draft 2024 CACT Annual Report to City Council
• Discussion of 2025 Priorities and Transportation Dashboard

The Citizens Advisory Committee on Transportation (CACT) voted unanimously to recommend the updated Bicycle Master Plan to City Council, including an amendment to Chapter 7. The committee also adopted its Rules of Procedure, Remote Participation Policy, and All-Virtual Participation Policy, all by 7-0 votes. Chair and Vice Chair were reelected unanimously. No other substantive decisions were made; several items were deferred to the next meeting.

• Recommended Bicycle Master Plan to City Council with amendment to Chapter 7 (7-0)
• Adopted Rules of Procedure (7-0)
• Adopted Remote Participation Policy (7-0)
• Adopted All-Virtual Participation Policy (7-0)
• Reelected Arthur Agin as Chair (6-0)
• Reelected Stuart Whitaker as Vice Chair (6-0)
• Approved December 2024 minutes (7-0)
• Extended meeting twice to 9:20 p.m. (7-0 each)

Board of Equalization

The Falls Church Board of Equalization is meeting to hear two property assessment appeals. One appeal (010-24AB) has a withdrawal request, while the other (018-24AB) will proceed. The meeting also includes routine procedural items such as call to order, roll call, quorum, and minutes approval.

• Appeal 010-24AB – Withdrawal requested
• Appeal 018-24AB – to be heard
• Minutes approval tabled until 15th to sign

The Board of Equalization unanimously affirmed the assessor's revised value of $14,833,700 for the Sonesta Simply Suites hotel at 207 Hillwood Ave, after the appellant requested a reduction to $13,690,000 but provided no additional evidence. The board also unanimously allowed the withdrawal of appeal 010-24AB, and continued appeal 009-24AB to a virtual hearing on January 29, 2025. Previous minutes were not approved at this meeting; they will be voted on at the January 15 meeting.

• Affirmed assessor's revised value of $14,833,700 for 207 Hillwood Ave (unanimous)
• Allowed withdrawal of appeal 010-24AB (unanimous)
• Continued appeal 009-24AB to January 29, 2025 virtual hearing
• Deferred approval of previous minutes to January 15, 2025

Housing Commission

The Falls Church Housing Commission will meet to discuss the Affordable Housing Fund and receive updates from the Department of Housing and Human Services on housing, the Affordable Homeownership Program, and the VA Village initiative. The meeting includes public comments, approval of minutes, and other routine business.

• Discussion of Affordable Housing Fund
• Housing Update from staff
• Affordable Homeownership Program Update
• VA Village Update

The Housing Commission reviewed its 2024 goals, focusing on advocating for preservation of expiring units at The Fields, and proposed a closed session for February 4th, later adjusting the next meeting to February 5th. Staff provided updates on the Affordable Housing Fund, including a six-year plan, and reported challenges filling 14 studio units at Broad and Washington. No formal votes were taken on substantive items; the only action was approving the previous meeting's minutes.

• Approved previous meeting minutes
• Adjusted next meeting to February 5th at 6:30 PM
• Proposed closed session for February 4th (pending confirmation)
• Discussed Affordable Housing Fund six-year plan
• Reported 14 vacant 80% AMI studios at Broad and Washington
• Noted sale of second townhouse finalized in late December
• Reported three more units approved for CCAU program

Aurora House Citizens' Advisory Committee

The Aurora House Citizens' Advisory Committee will convene an in-person meeting (with a virtual option) at City Hall to review routine items including approval of previous minutes, a group home manager’s report, and public comments. No substantive decisions or new business are listed on the agenda.

The Aurora House Citizens' Advisory Committee met on January 14, 2025, and approved the minutes from the November 12, 2024 meeting. The committee discussed combining a fundraiser with the parklet/reflection garden dedication, with the final name decision to be made by the City Council on February 24, 2025. A Celebration of Life for Christina is proposed for April, and the committee plans to add an Aurora House wishlist to the city website. No formal votes were taken on these items; they were discussion points.

• Approved minutes from 11/12/24 meeting
• Discussed combining fundraiser with parklet/reflection garden dedication
• Proposed Celebration of Life for April, pending parklet name decision
• Planned to add Aurora House wishlist to city website

Board of Equalization

The Board of Equalization will meet to review and decide on four specific property assessment appeals. The board will also approve previous minutes and sign decision letters.

• Appeal 016-24AB – Residential
• Appeal 007-24AB – Commercial
• Appeal 008-24AB – Commercial
• Appeal 015-24AB – Commercial

The Board of Equalization unanimously affirmed the assessor's values for four appealed properties, including one residential and three commercial. The board also approved previous minutes and signed decision letters. One appeal was postponed due to missing documentation.

• Approved minutes from January 2, 2024 (unanimous)
• Signed decision letters from January 2 meeting
• Affirmed residential assessment at 607 Randolph Ave at $991,300 (unanimous)
• Affirmed commercial assessments at 444 W Broad St at $6,760,300 and $4,234,300 (unanimous)
• Affirmed commercial assessment at 803 W Broad St at $9,319,900 (unanimous)
• Affirmed commercial assessment at 150 S Washington St at $6,150,400 (unanimous)
• Rescheduled appeal 009-24AB to January 23 or 29 due to missing documentation

Retirement Board

The Retirement Board will meet virtually to discuss legal services and pension plan assessments. The board is taking action on a contract and engagement letter with Groom.

• Legal Services Engagement Letter and Task #1 Pension Plans Assessment
• Signed Groom Contract
• Groom Engagement Letter
• Retirement Board Contract Purchasing Policy

The Falls Church Retirement Board approved an engagement letter and Task #1 for Groom Law Group to assess the Basic and Police Pension Plans, with a fee not to exceed $44,500. The motion passed 7-0. The assessment will review regulatory compliance and best practices, with any recommended amendments to be presented to the Board and City Council for approval.

• Approved Groom Law Group engagement letter and Task #1 pension plans assessment, not to exceed $44,500 (7-0)

Recreation & Parks Advisory Board

The Recreation & Parks Advisory Board will consider parklet naming recommendations, receive a director's report, and discuss park project updates including a February community meeting on the Fellows property. The board will also review no-smoking campaigns and an HVAC project update.

• Parklet naming recommendations and staff report
• No-smoking campaigns discussion
• HVAC project update
• Park project updates – Fellows property community meeting in February

The Recreation & Parks Advisory Board adopted motions recommending names for two parklets: 'Cavalier Trail Wayside' for 430 S Maple Avenue and 'Rolling Roads Park (or Parklet)' for 190 South Washington Street, and recommended against naming them after individuals. The board also approved the December 11, 2024 minutes. No other formal decisions were made; other items were informational or planning updates.

• Recommended naming parklet at 430 S Maple Avenue 'Cavalier Trail Wayside'
• Recommended naming parklet at 190 South Washington Street 'Rolling Roads Park (or Parklet)'
• Recommended NOT naming parklets to commemorate an individual's service
• Approved minutes of December 11, 2024 meeting

City Council Committee: Appointments

The City Council Appointments Committee is meeting to consider reappointments and new appointments to several city boards and commissions, with a focus on the Planning Commission, which has three expiring terms and two vacancies. Candidates include new applicants and incumbents for the Planning Commission, as well as reappointments to the Board of Zoning Appeals, Historic Architecture Review Board, and appointments to the Falls Church 250 Committee and Arts and Humanities Council.

• Reappointment request: Tim Stevens – Planning Commission (term 2025-2028)
• New applicants: Joseph Schiarizzi, Daniel Polinsky, Arthur Agin – Planning Commission
• Reappointment request: Peter Kien – Board of Zoning Appeals (2025-2028)
• Reappointment request: Allen Greenberg – Historic Architecture Review Board (2025-2029)
• Appointment request: Jim Coyle – Falls Church 250 Committee (Economic Development Authority Rep., unexpired term through 2027)

The Falls Church City Council Appointments Committee met on January 8, 2025, to interview and discuss candidates for various boards and commissions, including the Planning Commission, Board of Zoning Appeals, and others. The committee conducted interviews and entered closed session to discuss prospective candidates, but no final appointments were made at this meeting. The minutes record the process and schedule of interviews, with decisions to be made at a future meeting.

• Interviewed Tim Stevens for Planning Commission reappointment
• Interviewed Joseph Schiarizzi for Planning Commission
• Interviewed Daniel Polinsky for Planning Commission
• Interviewed Arthur Agin for Planning Commission or Citizens' Advisory Committee on Transportation
• Interviewed Peter Kien for Board of Zoning Appeals reappointment
• Interviewed Allen Greenberg for Historic Architecture Review Board reappointment
• Discussed appointment requests for Falls Church 250 Committee and Arts and Humanities Council
• Entered closed session to discuss prospective candidates (passed unanimously)

City Council: Council Agenda Meeting with Staff

The Mayor will meet with City Council staff to review the Council schedule and upcoming meeting agendas. This is a procedural meeting open to the public.

• Discussion of Council schedule and upcoming meeting agendas

The City Council met to schedule upcoming agenda items, including a public hearing on the Maple/Annandale Roundabout condemnation and a contract authorization for the roundabout project. No final decisions were made; the meeting was procedural, focused on setting dates for future discussions and actions.

• Scheduled Jan 13 public hearing for Maple/Annandale Roundabout condemnation (TR25-04)
• Scheduled Jan 13 contract authorization for Ardent Company roundabout project
• Scheduled Jan 27 public hearing and final adoption of Bike Master Plan (TR24-30)
• Scheduled Feb 10 first reading of Hunting Ordinance (TO25-XX)
• Scheduled Feb 24 public hearing and second reading of Hunting Ordinance (TO25-XX)
• Scheduled Feb 24 approval of Fairfax County Sewer Capacity Purchase Agreement
• Scheduled Feb 24 approval of Arlington Judicial Agreement

Economic Development Authority

The Falls Church Economic Development Authority will elect officers and consider an action item on accessory dwelling units. They will also review a zoning and parking report, discuss the Urban Land Institute Gordon Road Triangle Technical Assistance Panel, and adopt the 2025 work plan and budget. Restaurant Week 2025 and annual financial disclosures are also on the agenda.

• Action item: Accessory Dwelling Units Recommendation
• Election of EDA officers
• Zoning and Parking Report by Lisa Benjamin (Newmark) – First Floor Commercial Uses and Parking Strategies
• Urban Land Institute Gordon Rd Triangle Technical Assistance Panel (Jan 30-31)
• Falls Church Restaurant Week (Jan 31 – Feb 9)

The Falls Church Economic Development Authority approved a letter supporting the draft Accessory Dwelling Unit zoning amendment, elected Ross Litkenhous as Chairman and Jim Coyle as Vice-Chairman, and authorized up to $1,000 for Jim Snyder's farewell. The board also nominated a representative for the ULI Gordon Rd Triangle panel and discussed the 2025 work plan without formal action.

• Approved December 3, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Elected Ross Litkenhous as Chairman (unanimous)
• Elected Jim Coyle as Vice-Chairman (unanimous)
• Elected Becky Witsman as Executive Director (unanimous)
• Approved Ross Litkenhous as EDA representative to ULI Gordon Rd Triangle TAP (unanimous)
• Approved sending letter of support for Accessory Dwelling Unit zoning amendment (unanimous)
• Approved up to $1,000 for Jim Snyder's farewell (unanimous)

Board of Equalization

The Board of Equalization will meet to review and address three specific appeals. The body will determine the outcomes for these individual cases.

• Appeal 001-24AB
• Appeal 002-24AB
• Appeal 003-24AB

The Board of Equalization approved the previous meeting's minutes and affirmed the assessor's original values for three properties after the appellant, Harry Shovelin, did not appear. The board reviewed each appeal based on the file evidence and assessor's statements, finding insufficient evidence to change the values. One board member volunteered to represent the board at an upcoming Urban Land Institute meeting.

• Approved minutes from December 12, 2024 (unanimous)
• Affirmed $1,150,200 assessment for 1101 Hillwood Dr (unanimous)
• Affirmed $959,900 assessment for 713 Lincoln Ave (unanimous)
• Affirmed $707,800 assessment for 711 Lincoln Ave (unanimous)
• Volunteered board member to attend Urban Land Institute meeting on Jan 30, 2025