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Government
We Must Destroy Democracy in Order to Save It!
About fifty years ago the United States was involved in a military conflict in Vietnam which lasted many years and did not end well. There was a phrase from that era – “We had to destroy the village in order to save it” –which encapsulated its own self-defeating logic. We know better than the natives. We must force them to appreciate our values. Fast forward to 2026.
Willard Sherwood Health and Community Center Discussions
Residents in Fairfax City have been hearing a lot about the proposed Willard Sherwood Health and Community Center (WSHCC) project discussed at recent meetings, and one number in particular keeps coming up: an estimated $1.7 million annual operating cost to the city once the project is fully implemented. While the proposal’s goals include improving services and responding to community needs, many residents are understandably asking what that figure could mean for their own property tax bills and for the city’s long-term finances. This is especially important because the WSHCC is only one of four projects with the potential to increase real estate taxes substantially.
Affordable housing is a frequent rallying cry among our leaders
In Fairfax City, affordable housing is a frequent rallying cry among our leaders. Mayor Catherine Read has repeatedly emphasized its importance to the City’s vitality and long-term growth. She’s championed diversified housing types, supportive projects like Beacon Landing, and even sought legislative changes to help religious institutions build affordable units. Those are worthy goals — but they ring hollow if other City actions make living here increasingly unaffordable.
The Willard-Sherwood Health and Community Center: A Nice-to-Have Project?
After the Council’s vote to increase the real estate tax rate to $1.055 last spring, many residents are taking a more critical look at which recommended capital improvements are “nice-to-have” projects, such as the extensive recreational component of the Willard-Sherwood Health and Community Center, and which are “must-have” projects, such as replacing the high school roof and renovating the elementary schools.
Latest
Our Libraries Need Our Voices and Support
One-time infusions of money are no longer sufficient. To bring FCPL’s collection budget in line with comparable library systems, FCPL is requesting an increase of $8–$11 million over the next five years to permanently raise the base budget. This investment would benefit students, job seekers, families, seniors, and lifelong learners throughout Fairfax County.
Council
City Council Cancels George Snyder Trail in 4–2 Vote
The Fairfax City Council voted 4–2 to cancel the proposed George Snyder Trail, ending plans for the long-debated shared-use path. Supporters of the project said the trail would have improved pedestrian and bicycle access and strengthened connections between neighborhoods. Opponents raised concerns about cost, environmental impact, and tree loss along the proposed route.
Election
Gretchen Bulova Wins 11th Goes To Richmond
Gretchen Bulova was elected on January 13, 2026 to represent the 11th House District in the Virginia General Assembly. She secured 68.79% of the vote against Republican Adam Wise. Wise previously ran against Delegate David Bulova in the November 4, 2025 General Election but did not win by over 15,000 votes.
History
Virginia Prepares for the 75th Governor’s Inauguration on January 17, 2026
Virginians are gearing up to witness a historic moment as the Commonwealth prepares to inaugurate its next governor. The swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for Saturday, January 17, 2026, at the Virginia State Capitol in Richmond.
Restaurant
Fairfax County’s New Meals Tax
If grabbing dinner out is one of your small joys in life, Fairfax County has a gentle reminder for you: starting January 1, 2026, eating out will cost just a little bit more - a new 4% Food and Beverage Tax - better known as the meals tax goes into effect.
Latest
Washington Monument Lighting Show
As America turns 250, the Washington Monument becomes the world’s tallest birthday candle. From December 31-January 5, each night the story of the discovery, expansion, independence, and future of our nation will be projected onto the Washington Monument. This will serve as a dazzling kickoff to the 250th anniversary of our nation’s independence.
