OCCOQUAN DISTRICT DIGEST Community News From Supervisor Kenny Boddye Fall/Winter 2020
A message from the Supervisor
THE TIME FOR HOUSING EQUITY IS NOW On its surface, the recently proposed Resolution 11-H would have created an 18-month moratorium on residential development, to allow County staff time to study, define and make policy recommendations regarding equity in housing (to include affordable housing) and environmental justice. However, that work is already taking place, and this resolution could have delayed changes that are already long overdue. In June of this year, my colleagues and I approved a resolution directing staff to assess all County initiatives, including land use policies, for equity and inclusion. The methodology and policy changes stemming from this effort are meant to mitigate the adverse effects of racial and social disparities in our community. As County Executive Chris Martino noted that day, “Local governments are in a unique position to advance racial and social equity in their communities, but such advancement requires intentionality.” (Cont’d p2)
IN THIS ISSUE... ÂÂ What’s On Your Ballot? (3) ÂÂ Celebrating Safely This Holiday Season (4) ÂÂ PWC’s New FREE Job Training Program (5) ÂÂ Quieting Vehicle Noise (6) ÂÂ Co-Responders Fully Operational By End of Year (7) ÂÂ Does it Go In the Bin? (9)
KNOW MORE, SOONER
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RESOLUTION 11-H WOULD HAVE STALLED MOMENTUM (Cont’d) We do not need another 18 months to define these concepts. Nationally-recognized definitions and implementation strategies exist, and County staff are working to integrate these into Prince William’s Comprehensive Plan and land use documents. In fact, neighboring jurisdictions have pursued affordable housing initiatives for decades. Such efforts simply have not been a priority for past Boards in Prince William County.
The past lack of leadership on these issues has no doubt led to missed opportunities for safeguarding frontline communities over the years. It has also allowed the affordability gap to widen unchecked, impacting ever-wider segments of our workforce. I do welcome the shift in priorities that Resolution 11-H signals, but not the delays it would have brought. At best, a mandated 18-month study period would supplement current staff efforts. At worst, it would add redundancies and delay action on staff findings. In the last 10 months, we have seen more progress than in the last 10 years: The policy changes underway will soon provide the County with new tools for incentivizing the development of affordable housing and protecting frontline communities from the dangers of pollution and power grid infrastructure encroachment. While the idea of halting land use 2
decisions until that work is finished may sound appealing, there is no magic pause button when it comes to residential development. Ceasing all updates to our land use policies would give developers the green light to build under existing, outdated ordinances (known as “by-right” development) which exacerbate the very gaps in affordable housing and environmental justice we are seeking to close. By encouraging by-right development, the “pause” approach would also circumvent the proffer process, through which the County negotiates with developers to offset impacts of their projects. These proffers can help to fund neighborhood essentials such as roads, schools and public safety. Furthermore, deferring any rezoning that could result in increased density doesn’t differentiate between the size or potential benefits of a project. For instance, a higher density development may bring with it conservation of green space, allow more people to live near existing transit or revitalize a long-neglected area of the County. Rather than slowing their momentum, we must provide County staff with the resources to complete the task at hand; enshrining housing equity and environmental justice benchmarks into County land use policies and processes. Not in 18 months, but as soon as possible. It is past time that every County resident had a safe place to call home.
Building A Brighter Future, Together
YOUR VOICE
What’s On Your Ballot?
Be Prepared to Make Your Voice Heard on November 3rd
Election day is Tuesday, November 3, from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. High turnout and lines are expected; please wear a mask and practice social distancing while waiting. As long as you are in line by 7 p.m., you will be able to cast your vote. While everybody is talking about the Presidential race, Occoquan District voters have other important choices on their ballots as well: ÂÂ US Senate ÂÂ US House of Representatives ÂÂ Ballot Question #1: Should the Constitution of Virginia be amended to establish a redistricting commission, consisting of eight members of the General Assembly and eight citizens of the Commonwealth, that is responsible for drawing the congressional and state legislative districts that will be subsequently voted on, but not changed by, the General Assembly and enacted without the Governor’s involvement and to give the responsibility of drawing districts to the Supreme Court of Virginia if the redistricting commission fails to draw districts or the General Assembly fails to enact districts by certain deadlines? ÂÂ Ballot Question #2: Should [a vehicle] that is owned and used primarily by or for a veteran of the United States armed forces or the Virginia National Guard who has a one hundred percent service-connected, permanent, and total disability be free from state and local taxation? Visit occoq.org/ballot_2020, which links to the Virginia Elections site, to begin your research on these ballot questions. On Election Day, remember to bring one acceptable form of ID. Options include documents confirming your registration to vote; government-issued ID; employer-issued photo ID card or current utility bill or bank statement sent to your address. Find a full list of acceptable forms of ID, as well as information on your local polling location, at elections.virginia.gov. Find the Latest Community News at OccoquanDistrict.Net
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COVID-19 RESPONSE + RESOURCES
Safely Celebrating This Holiday Season
CDC Notes That A Combination of Factors Affect Risk Levels With the holidays drawing near, many of us are seeking to strike a balance between family traditions and protecting ourselves and loved ones from COVID-19. Gathering with only household members, or virtually, remains the safest bet. When that is not an option, risk mitigation strategies can also include forming a “Quaranteam;” a small group of people who only interact with one another, or committing to a combination of testing and quarantining prior to a gathering. The CDC notes that a combination of factors affect risk levels of gathering in-person: ÂÂ Infection Rates: Consider the ÂÂ Event Duration: The longer the number and rate of cases in gathering, the higher the risk. the community in which you ÂÂ Amount of Guests: More will celebrate and from where people = more risk. Base the guests are traveling. If numbers size of the gathering on your are high, consider going virtual, ability to limit contact between holding the event outdoors or attendees, the risk of spread, quarantining prior to gathering. and any applicable health and ÂÂ Ventilation: Indoor gatherings safety rules in your area. generally pose more risk ÂÂ Behaviors: Risk goes up if than outdoor ones, more so if guests aren’t practicing good ventilation is poor. If gathering COVID habits (distancing, mask inside, consider opening wearing, hand washing, etc) in windows and doors. their daily lives or at the event. Visit occoq.org/cdc_holidays for the latest CDC guidance on minimizing COVID-19 risks while celebrating the holidays this year.
Why Contact Tracing?
Contact tracing is one of our best tools against the spread of COVID-19. It lets us go about our daily lives, knowing that people will quickly learn if they have been exposed so that they can take steps to protect others. Apps like COVIDWISE can streamline the process.
Learn how you can help! COVIDWISE.org
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Building A Brighter Future, Together
COVID-19 RESPONSE + RESOURCES
County Offering Free Job Training, Placement ELEVATE Program Connects Residents With In-Demand Skills
Kickstart your job search or career today! occoq.org/elevate_jobtraining The County’s Department of Economic Development (DED) has committed $1.5 million of CARES Act funds to help qualifying Prince William residents get and keep today’s in-demand jobs during these challenging economic times. The new ELEVATE program offers free access to a complete range of professional development and career services including: ÂÂ Education and certification ÂÂ Transportation related to job search or training ÂÂ Stipends ÂÂ Job placement
Help With Childcare Expenses: New PWC Scholarship Program
If you’ve experienced job loss, a reduction in wages or hours, or new childcare expenses due to COVID, you may be eligible for the County’s childcare scholarship program, which will provide up to 1,000 full scholarships for tuition and virtual learning assistance at AlphaBest. Program runs through Dec. 30. Learn more: alphabest.org/pwcva
Available courses include IT, healthcare, and English language skills (ESL). Most courses are virtual; some in-person options may be offered in heavily sanitized settings. “These resources will not only help residents get back to work, but also return to the workforce armed with new skills and abilities that will help them advance in their careers, be more productive, and help make our economy more resilient,” said DED Director Christina Winn. Interested residents should act now; funding and timeframe is limited.
“Power of ePortal” Streamlines Development Services Experience Development Services’ new ePortal provides access to information and processes for nearly all development projects, improving communication and access to applications, enabling quicker decision-making and increased productivity. Enjoy powerful features like videos, user guides, FAQs, fillable forms and project checklists. Get The Power of ePortal: pwcgov.org/eportal
Find the Latest Community News at OccoquanDistrict.Net
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STRENGTHENING NEIGHBORHOODS
State Action Needed to Quiet Our Streets We hear you loud and clear: Noisy vehicles are an issue in several Occoquan District neighborhoods. Residents along Elm Farm, Smoketown, Old Bridge, Davis Ford, Yates Ford and the Parkway have called to complain about jake brakes, motorcycles, modified mufflers and speeding.
as having a thorough understanding of the vehicle equipment. Additionally, it is rare for dispatched units to luck out and arrive before the offending vehicle is gone. There are discussions about shifting some traffic units with this expertise to evening patrols. However, longterm, we need changes at the state level to better define noise violations and to stop them before they start. To that end, Supervisor Boddye is relaying constituent concerns to Delegate Hala Ayala’s office, advocating for an inspection process that would flag alteration or removal of mufflers.
While we are actively working with the Police Department and PWC Department of Transportation to address speeding, road noise violations are harder to address from an enforcement perspective. Doing so requires detailed expertise, and a bit of luck. First, Virginia code surrounding noise violations is vague, and does not In the meantime, please continue define acceptable decibel levels. notifying the Police Department and Lieutenant Vance explained that this our office of issues, and consider means that officers must be prepared contacting your state representatives to defend charges in court: Asking about strengthening state regulations detailed questions at the scene and surrounding road noise. Find your state attempting to get a confession, taking representatives online: photos and recording the noise, as well whosmy.virginiageneralassembly.
Update: Traffic Calming in the Occoquan District
With traffic patterns normalizing somewhat as businesses reopen, PWC Department of Transportation (DOT) is once again conducting speed studies, the first step towards implementing a traffic calming plan if one is warranted. Due to the COVID-related backlog, any studies requested now would take place in Spring 2021 at the earliest. Following a temporary spending freeze, PWCDOT was also able to move forward with two long-awaited traffic calmimg measures: Installing speed tables near 12404 Harbor Drive and 3713 Pennington Lane. Both projects were funded through Occoquan Magestrial District TRIP funds. To learn more about reporting traffic concerns in your neighborhood, and possible solutions, visit occoq.org/speed. 6
Building A Brighter Future, Together
STRENGTHENING NEIGHBORHOODS
Co-Responders Offer Resources, Solutions Following a year long pilot, Prince William County Community Services and Police Department have worked diligently to launch a permanent Co-Responder Program, pairing Emergency Services Clinicians and Crisis Intervention Teamcertified officers to respond as a team to 911 calls that have a mental health component. Slated to be cut from the FY 2021 Budget in light of revenue shortfalls, Supervisor Boddye advocated for the program to receive full funding, citing success of the pilot and of similar initiatives across the country. When fully operational at the end of this calendar year, Co-responders will also conduct follow-up with residents,
connecting them with appropriate services. This treatmentoriented approach has been shown to result in criminal justice diversions, and to reduce inpatient psychiatric hospitalizations by connecting individuals with crisis resources and treatment within the community. "This innovative program allows Prince William County Police and Community Services to respond to our neighbors in crisis with resources and solutions rather than only enforcement," said Supervisor Boddye. "By deescalating tense encounters and focusing on treatment, the co-responder model improves outcomes for our residents and police officers alike."
Thank You‌To all who are going above and beyond to educate our children during these trying times.
PWCS Teacher Iysha Burt’s finds creative ways to teach remotely
Educators learning completely new skillsets to teach virtually, special education teachers already back in the classroom. Support staff and administrators helping to keep it all going behind the scenes. Parents overseeing virtual learning as they juggle other responsibilities. Thus far, the County Board of Supervisors has allocated $25M in CARES Act funds to help Prince William County Public Schools address costs associated with COVID-19, such as technology to support virtual learning, sanitation supplies, training and PPE. To all who are making this school year possible, please know that you will continue to have the admiration and full support of the Board of Supervisors as together we navigate the 2020-2021 school year. For the latest school news, visit pwcs.edu. Find the Latest Community News at OccoquanDistrict.Net
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STRENGTHENING NEIGHBORHOODS
County Allocates Additional $1M to Nonprofits
In August, Prince William County allocated $950,000 in CARES Act funds to the Human Services Alliance of Greater Prince William to seed the new Prince William Disaster Relief Fund. This gave financial support to 14 nonprofit organizations with demonstrated ability to provide critical resources during COVID-19 and the related economic crisis. The County recently provided another $1M in funding to the Alliance, which distributed these funds to the 12 organizations below:
ÂÂ Debre Medhanit Eyesus Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahido Church - $50,000: Rent and utility assistance, access to healthcare appointments, childcare cost subsidies and employment assistance to the underserved African immigrant community ÂÂ New Creatures in Christ Ministries, Inc. - $100,000: Rent, childcare, emergency housing assistance and other unmet needs to those impacted by COVID-19 ÂÂ Formed Families Forward - $75,000: Respite care and childcare for families with developmentally and intellectually disabled children ÂÂ Northern Virginia Family Service - $55,000: Childcare and educational support for children living in the SERVE Family Shelter during the school year and engaged in virtual learning while their parents work during the day ÂÂ Unity in the Community, Inc. - $50,000: Rental assistance to families in need ÂÂ Carried to Full Term - $50,000: Cost of housing and utilities, cleaning supplies, PPE, emergency housing, clothing, educational fees, transportation assistance, legal support, mental and behavioral support for mothers and pregnant women, as well as child care coverage, counseling and longer-term mental health services ÂÂ Arc of Greater Prince William/INSIGHT, Inc. - $120,000: PPE and cleaning supplies for residential and learning facilities ÂÂ Court Appointed Special Advocates Children’s Intervention Services - $50,000: to assist those in need with covering rent and utility payments. ÂÂ Legal Services of Northern Virginia - $50,000: Legal counsel and representation in eviction cases for households impacted by COVID-19 ÂÂ Kuma Foundation - $150,000: Utility and employment assistance ÂÂ Potomac Valley Church of Christ - $150,000: Rent, mortgage and utility assistance ÂÂ First Home Alliance - $150,000: Housing, counseling and assistance with rent and mortgage payments
Visit alliancegpw.org/disasterfund to learn more about this program, including how to donate or get involved in local charitable efforts. Community Feedback on Strategic Plan Now Online Go to occoq.org/strategicplan & scroll to #2 to view links 8
Building A Brighter Future, Together
COUNTY SERVICES
Sunday Service Resumes At Disposal Facilities
Recycle glass at any purple bin in NOVA; find one near you: occoq.org/purplebin_glass.
The PWC Landfill and Balls Ford Compost Facility recently resumed Sunday service; 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Precautions such as social distancing and face masks are required. Both accept household trash, recycling, yard waste, household batteries, lead-acid batteries, motor oil and antifreeze. Bulk waste like furniture and construction debris is only accepted at the landfill. The only plastic recycled in PWC is #1 and #2 bottles, jugs and jars. We no longer recycle plastics #3-7; these should be placed in the trash. Consider avoiding purchase of
products with this packaging to help reduce waste. Additionally, glass is no longer recycled curbside, but CAN be recycled in designated purple bins at Balls Ford and the landfill, and at other locations in NOVA. Do not mix glass with other recycling. Also, never place any plastic bags in recycling bins; plastic shopping bags can be recycled at most grocery stores and select retailers, such as Target. Visit pwcgov.org/trashandrecycling for more info on disposal and recycling in Prince William.
On Nov. 2, OmniRide/PRTC will suspend service on 3 low-performing Express routes: Dale City–Mark Center (D-400), Lake Ridge–Mark Center (L-300) and Tysons (T). To reach Mark Center, take OmniRide to Pentagon, and transfer to Metrobus 7M. For Tyson’s, take OmniRide’s Prince William Metro Express to Franconia-Springfield Metro station and transfer to Fairfax Connector Route 494, or park at Lorton VRE station to catch the 494. Questions? Contact 703-730-6664 or Omni@OmniRide.com.
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COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS Mark Your Calendar
Get Connected!
Cornmaze & Fall Market Through Nov 9 | Times Vary|Burnside Farms
ÂÂ Visit OccoquanDistrict.net for local news & events
Fall Document Shred Nov 7 | 9am-1pm |Landfill & Chris Yung ES
ÂÂ Like Occoq.org/fb and connect with the District team and community
Potomac River: History Tour, By Boat Nov 7| 10am-1pm| Leeslyvania
ÂÂ Follow instagram.com/occoquandistrict
Tree Lighting & Start of WinterFest Nov 20| 8pm | Town of Occoquan
ÂÂ Sign-up for updates from Supervisor Boddye at Occoq.org/email
Dale City Farmer’s Market Sundays Through Nov 30| 8am-1pm | Gemini Way
ÂÂ Get the County’s NEW email newsletter bit.ly/34QcP7m
Holidays Through the Ages Dec 4-20| Times Vary|Rippon Lodge
ÂÂ Sign-up for pwcgov.org/alerts
Food Distribution 2nd & 4th Sunday| 10am-2pm |Dar Al Noor Details: OccoquanDistrict.net/events or VisitPWC.com/events View "Linking Land Use to Transportation" Town Hall OccoquanDistrict.net/town-halls
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Building A Brighter Future, Together
COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS
Staying Connected in the Occoquan District
As we adjust to the new normal, our community is finding a number of ways to safely remain connected. Supervisor Boddye has become a pro at virtual meetings, participating in town halls on topics such as the public defenders office, school s reopening, linking transportation to land use, 2020 elections and criminal justice reform. There have also been in person events–masked and distanced–ranging from National Night Out with Prince William County Police and Sheriff’s Department to an outdoor movie screening honoring the late Congressman John Lewis.
PWCPD found a safe alternative for holding #NationalNightOut.
Constituent Services includes providing cleaning supplies to area businesses during a pandemic.
Discussing safety considerations for opening schools.
Our office joined PWCA in giving away 400 redbud saplings, making #OccoquanDistrict a little greener.
Thanks to Town of Occoquan for co-hosting our screening of John Lewis: Good Trouble.
The tripling in size of the Balls Ford Compost Facility will mean less waste at the County Landfill over time. Find the Latest Community News at OccoquanDistrict.Net
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Occoquan District Office 2241-K Tackett’s Mill Drive Woodbridge, Virginia 22192
571.492.4259 | OccoquanDistrict.net
Community News From Supervisor Kenny Boddye
OCCOQUAN DISTRICT DIGEST