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Rising Dominion Bills, Windy Knoll Farm and AI Boom Fuel Virginia Energy Debate
Beginning July 1, a typical Dominion residential customer using 1,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity each month saw bills increase by about $8 because of higher fuel costs. Combined with an earlier approved base-rate increase of $8.51 per month, average monthly bills are expected to rise by nearly $19, or about 14%, in 2026.
Real story behind the City of Fairfax Democratic Committee “recommendation” Op-Ed by Kate Doyle Feingold
This year the Democratic Party of VA told county and city party committees they couldn’t endorse candidates without a primary. The City of Fairfax dem committee decided to “recommend” instead. The practical difference is probably nothing, but there are some key points to note. The city dem committee had a questionnaire on their website for individuals interested in party endorsement or support, and a handful of candidates responded to that questionnaire: Anthony Amos, Sandra Slappey Brown, Maria Padmore, and Kelly O’Brien. They all ended up on the recommendation list - along with Kirsten Lockhart. Everyone who asked for endorsement or recommendation from the city dem committee received it. The endorsement committee for the city dems is tiny (4 people including the chair & chair’s husband).
Three Constitutional Amendments to Appear on Virginia Ballot This November
Fairfax, VA - When Virginians head to the polls this November, they will vote not only for candidates seeking federal, state, and local office, but also on three proposed amendments to the Virginia Constitution. The measures address reproductive freedom, marriage rights, and voting rights for individuals with felony convictions.
In Memoriam: Janet Howell, a Force for Northern Virginia
Former State Senator Janet Howell was a force to be reckoned with. For 32 years in the Virginia Senate, the Reston Democrat fought against injustice, championed Northern Virginia and helped shape policies affecting residents across the Commonwealth
News
Congressman Gerry Connolly Passed Away At 75: End of An Era. He Will Be Missed By Many.
U.S. Representative and Northern Virginia’s beloved, Gerald "Gerry" Connolly, a stalwart of Northern Virginia politics and a dedicated public servant, passed away on May 21, 2025, at the age of 75. He died peacefully at his home in Fairfax, surrounded by family, after a battle with esophageal cancer.
School
City of Fairfax Schools Superintendent Jeff Platenberg Announces Retirement After 40 Years of Public Service
After a remarkable 40-year career in public education, City of Fairfax Schools Superintendent Jeff Platenberg has announced his retirement, effective July 31, 2025. Platenberg made the announcement during the School Board meeting on May 5, sharing his deep reflections on a career filled with significant achievements and community impact.
News
City Council Matters: Environment, Budget & Zoning (op-ed by Kate Doyle Feingold – former City Council Member)
There was a great win for the Fairfax City environment on Earth Day. And a great lesson for tireless residents who continued to speak up about taxpayer dollars going to build destructive, wide, paved roads through our dwindling forests.
Development
Changes to the Period of Validity for Zoning Approvals in Virginia
Local governments in Virginia have long granted approvals like special permits, site plans, and subdivision plats to allow property development. Usually, these approvals stay...
Business
Fairfax Cities Proposal to Increase Meals Tax – Op-ed by Bill Hamrock
This proposal will significantly hurt restaurants in Fairfax City. From my restaurant point of view customers will see this as a 12% tax. Currently Meals...
Opinion
Your Actions, Our Climate: Fairfax Needs You Now (op-ed by John Morrill, Director, Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination (OEEC))
2024 was the hottest year ever recorded in Fairfax County. Extreme weather and high energy bills are hitting many households hard. From prolonged heatwaves...
