“Convergence” at Aperture. Photo contributed
Change and collaboration have been the themes for 2017 in Fairfax County and the Hunter Mill District.
This year, two of the most important accomplishments of the Board of Supervisors are the establishment of the Police Civilian Review Panel and the Independent Police Auditor. Like many large jurisdictions, the relationship of the police and our citizens is of great importance. The creation of the panel and the auditor aim to build the trust with citizens and the police necessary to keep our communities and residents safe.
Countywide, we welcome the changeover in leadership in Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) with the installation of Superintendent Scott Brabrand, and the appointment of new County Executive Bryan Hill who will take the reins in the County in January. Their predecessors initiated changes in how we do business both at the Board levels and in our programs and services. This collaboration between schools and county continues to evolve with an aim to greater efficiencies and better service delivery to our citizens. Already we have seen the benefits in our work on the FY2019 budget proposal.
One example of the county/schools collaboration is work of the Successful Children and Youth Policy Team (SCYPT). Composed of Board members, agency staff and community advocates, the SCYPT team has a focus on how we can bring together the resources of the County, FCPS, and community organizations to help our children become successful individuals. This year, SCYPT developed their Equitable School Readiness Strategic Plan to expand early children development and learning programs so more children begin their education ready for learning. Investments in pre-K pay off “bigly.”
In the Hunter Mill District, we’re sprouting like long, planned for spring flowers. New development, residential and commercial, debuted in the Tysons area and in Reston.
- The Aperture apartments, BLVD Reston Station and other new buildings opened their doors, bringing new residents and businesses.
- Senior residents who want to stay in their community will have new options with the coming of the Hunters Woods at Trails Edge Senior Living Community in Reston.
- The Reston Transportation Service District was established this year to provide needed revenue for new roads, improvements to existing roads, intersection improvements and grid of streets to around the transit stations.
- In Reston, the community continues to tussle with the proposed zoning amendment to the Reston PRC to raise the density. While a decision is not forthcoming in 2017, it has been exciting to see so many residents becoming engaged in this issue by attending meetings, writing letters, and offering their input.
On the fun side in Hunter Mill:
- James Madison High school sports had a banner year as teams won state championships in Girls Swim and Dive, Cross Country, and Softball.
- McNair Elementary School Chess Team outmaneuvered their opponents at Virginia Scholastic Chess Championships in both team and individual competitions, coming home with multiple championship trophies.
- Vienna Chorale celebrated their 30th anniversary of sharing their beautiful music with the community.
- New public art sculptures were unveiled at the Aperture, and at the newly renovated Vienna Community Center, both welcome additions to our artscape. And, Reston Public Art celebrated their 10th anniversary.
- The NoVi Trail Network neared completion, providing walkable connections to local amenities such as parks, schools, Tysons and the Town of Vienna.
As you can see, 2017 was very busy! I look forward to being as equally engaged in 2018. A Happy Hunter Mill Holiday to you!