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TextAsk Fairfax!
Welcome to Ask Fairfax!, a forum for you and
county staff to engage in online discussions about key topics in our
community. To participate:
- View the list of upcoming topics below.
- Review the question guidelines.
- Submit your questions and then follow the discussion live or check back for the transcript.
- Spread the word to your family, friends, neighbors and coworkers.
Thanks for participating!
Upcoming Discussions
There are not any discussions scheduled at this time.
Recent Discussions
Transporation in Fairfax County Read Transcript
On Monday, June 10, at 1 p.m., join Board of Supervisors Chairman Sharon Bulova for an online chat on transportation in Fairfax County. The Chairman will answer questions and address concerns on the current state of transportation infrastructure and what the future holds for transportation in the County. Also, get details on the Evolution of Transportation event scheduled for June 12 at the Angelika Film Center and Café in Merrifield.
Dig Into Reading this Summer at the Fairfax County Public Library Read Transcript
The Summer Reading Program helps students keep up their reading skills while school is out and encourages a lifelong love of reading. Kids and teens earn a coupon book with great prizes for reading a certain number of books (or having books read to them). Join the online chat Friday, June 7, 10 – 11 a.m.
Chatting with the Animal Shelter: Find a New Best Friend, Volunteer, Become a Foster to a Homeless Pet Read Transcript
Do you love animals? Wondering what you can do to help dogs, cats, rabbits, turtles, birds and “more” in your community? Then on Friday, May 31 at 10:30 a.m., join Tawny Hammond, director, and Kristen Auerbach, community outreach program manager, with the Fairfax County Animal Shelter, to discuss new summer programs and initiatives, volunteer and foster opportunities and how you can find a lifelong best friend at the county’s Animal Shelter. Also get answers to all your questions about cats in our community.
Beautiful and Destructive: Invasive Plants Read Transcript
Over the last 30 years, invasive species have slowly taken a firm foothold in our area. On Wednesday, May 29 at 2 p.m. join Natural Resource Specialist Justin Roberson with the Fairfax County Park Authority to talk about invasive plants, their damaging effects and how you can help protect yards, gardens and parkland from the infestation of these aggressively growing plants. Experts agree that non-native, invasive species are the second most serious threat to the quality of natural areas and their ability to support wildlife with only habitat loss being a more serious threat.
Fight the Bite: Guard Against Mosquito and Tick Bites This Summer Read Transcript
On Wednesday, May 8, 2 p.m., join Dr. Jorge Arias and Josh Smith, environmental health specialist and biologist, from the Health Department for an online discussion about how to protect yourself and your family from West Nile virus and Lyme disease. Preventing bites from these insects is an important step. Learn how to eliminate mosquito breeding sites around your home, what to do if you find a tick on your body and how to spot the signs and symptoms of West Nile virus and Lyme disease. Join the conversation, get your questions answered and learn how to enjoy the outdoors safely this summer.
Don't Go Buggy: Learn About Cicadas Read Transcript
While Fairfax County will only see a spotty appearance of cicadas this year, cicadas will be returning to the east coast between early to mid-May. On Thursday, May 2 at 2 p.m. join staff from the county’s Urban Forestry Division of the Department of Public Works and Environmental Services to discuss this year’s cicada arrival, learn interesting cicada facts and ask your questions about these often misunderstood red-eyed insects.
Let's Talk 9-1-1 Read Transcript
Join us Monday, April 29 at 2 p.m. for an online chat discussing the importance of 9-1-1. Steve Souder, Director, Department of Public Safety Communications (the 9-1-1 center) will answer your questions. This is a great opportunity to learn about 9-1-1, how it works and what the next generation of 9-1-1 will provide.
Sexual Assault Awareness in the Social Media Age Read Transcript
April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Recent incidents involving social media (photos and videos of assaults posted and shared online) highlight the importance of discussing the serious impact on victims, especially teens. On Friday, April 26 at 10 a.m., please join Fairfax County for a live chat about how we can help young people avoid the crowd mentality, stand up for their core values, and hold one other accountable. Representatives from the Fairfax County Office for Women and Domestic & Sexual Violence Services and the Police Department will answer questions.
Recycle Right, Fairfax Read Transcript
Do you want to know how to properly get rid of old electronics, hazardous materials like oil-based paint and fluorescent bulbs, and other household waste? County staff from the Solid Waste Management Program will be online Wednesday, April 24 at 2 p.m., to answer all of your questions about recycling and trash. Join Pamela Gratton, Fairfax County's recycling manager, and Ben Boxer, public information officer, in a discussion of everyday ways that you can help keep Fairfax County green.
Silver Line, Phase 1 Update Read Transcript
Join Nick Perfili, Dulles Rail Project Planner, and Cindy Wegener, Fairfax Connector’s Manager of Operations, with the county’s Department of Transportation on Thursday, April 18 at 2 p.m. for a discussion on Silver Line, Phase 1. It’s an opportunity to ask questions about the Silver Line as well as Fairfax Connector’s proposed bus service plan for when the rail line starts operations.
ABC's of Building Permits Read Transcript
Spring is here and with warming weather, many people turn their thoughts to home improvement projects. But did you know projects could require a building permit? Join staff with the Department of Public Works and Environmental Services on Tuesday, April 16 at 2 p.m. in a discussion on the ABC’s of Building Permits: when do you need a permit, when you don’t, what’s the process like, etc? Shetal Kapoor and Steve Kendrick with the DPWES Customer and Technical Support Center will be online to answer your questions.
Proposed FY 2014 Budget Discussion with the County Executive Read Transcript
County Executive Ed Long will discuss his proposed FY 2014 budget on Thursday, Feb. 28, at 9:30 a.m.
Silver Line, Phase I Update Read Transcript
Join Nick Perfili, Dulles Rail Project Planner, and Christy Wegener, Fairfax Connector’s Manager of Operations, Planning and Customer Service with the county’s Department of Transportation on Tuesday, Feb. 5 at 10 a.m. for a discussion on Silver Line, Phase 1. It’s an opportunity to ask questions about the Silver Line as well as Fairfax Connector’s proposed bus service plan for when the rail line starts operations.
Public Safety Read Transcript
Fairfax County Acting Police Chief James A. Morris answers your questions on holiday safety, school security and ongoing public safety issues of interest to the community Friday, Dec. 21 at 12:30 p.m.
National Influenza Vaccination Week Read Transcript
This week is National Influenza Vaccination Week. Influenza activity is increasing in parts of the country and further increases are expected in the coming weeks and months. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that everyone over the age of 6 months receive a flu vaccine each year. Join the Fairfax County Health Department’s Deputy Director for Medical Services Dr. Raja’a Satouri for an Ask Fairfax! chat on Wednesday, Dec. 5, at 1 p.m. to discuss the flu, vaccinations and winter health. For more information about the flu, visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/flu.
Black Friday and Cyber Monday Shopping
Read Transcript
Protect yourself and your money on Black Friday and Cyber Monday — and get tips for savvy holiday shopping. Chat with representatives from the Consumer Affairs Branch and the Police Department’s Financial Crimes on Tuesday, Nov. 20 at 10 a.m. about online shopping safety, gift cards and how to separate the real door busters from ho-hum deals.
Are You Ready for Election Day?
Read Transcript
In the final stretch before the Nov. 6 General Election, Fairfax County General Registrar Cameron Quinn will be available to answer your questions about voting, going to the polls and more on Friday, Nov. 2 at 2 p.m.
Hurricane Sandy Read Transcript
Hurricane Sandy and its impacts are on the way. Board of Supervisors Chairman Sharon Bulova, County Executive Ed Long and other county staff will take your questions at 6 p.m. Sunday from the Emergency Operations Center. Submit your questions now and follow responses below beginning at 6 p.m. Sunday.
2012 Election Day Bond Referendums
Read Transcript
Four county bond questions will be on the ballot on Election Day, Nov. 6. Get answers to your questions about how the county plans to use this money to improve libraries, parks, public safety and stormwater facilities during the Ask Fairfax! chat on Wednesday, Oct. 24 at 10 a.m. Please note that questions for the online chat will not be answered until Nov. 2 and any questions regarding voting that need immediate attention should go to voting@fairfaxcounty.gov or call 703-222-0776 (TTY 711).
Countywide Dialogue on Transportation
Read Transcript
In the next 10 years, funding needs for transportation are projected to be $8.1 billion, exceeding available funding from all sources. Ask questions and share ideas about county transportation needs, priorities and revenue options during the Ask Fairfax! chat on Wednesday, Oct. 10 at noon.
Voting and the 2012 General Election
Read Transcript
Voter Registration Week is Sept. 25 to Oct. 2. Fairfax County General Registrar Cameron Quinn will answer your voting questions for the upcoming General Election, including voter registration and voter ID, during the online “Ask Fairfax!” Friday, Sept. 28 at 11 a.m.
County Executive Q&A Read Transcript
Join County Executive Ed Long at 10 a.m. on Thursday, Sept. 27 as he answers questions about the state of the county, the budget and other topics.
Pledge to Prepare for National Preparedness Month Read Transcript
Fairfax County has experienced a variety of unexpected emergencies during the past 12 months – an earthquake, hurricane, tropical storm, tornado and a derecho storm all affected the area. September is National Preparedness month, which is the perfect time to prepare yourself, your family and your workplace. The Office of Emergency Management will be available to answer questions online about recent emergencies and to share best practices for emergency preparedness on Wednesday, Sept. 12 at 10 a.m.
Preparing for Hurricane Season Read Transcript
Hurricane season begins June 1 and runs through Nov. 30. Hurricanes do not have to make landfall in Virginia to cause damage. Heavy rains, strong winds, floods and damage to buildings, trees and cars can all accompany a hurricane. Be prepared! On Tuesday, May 22, at 2 p.m., join Marcelo Ferreira, community liaison with the Office of Emergency Management, for an online chat about hurricanes, how to prepare for hurricane season, Hurricane Preparedness Week May 25-31, and how to save money while shopping for emergency preparedness supplies during the annual Virginia Hurricane Sales Tax Holiday, May 25-31.
Preparing for Kindergarten Read Transcript
This fall, an estimated 13,000 children in Fairfax County will be starting their elementary school experience as they transition from home, preschool or a child care setting to kindergarten! The Office for Children partners with Fairfax County Public Schools to help families and child care programs support children’s school readiness. Join staff May 2 at 10 a.m. for an online discussion that will address what families, child care programs and teachers can do to ensure a smooth transition to kindergarten and a successful new beginning for children and their families.
Rabies: Deadly, but Preventable Read Transcript
On Wednesday, April 25, 1 p.m. join Director of Animal Control Michael Lucas, and Dr. Peter Troell from the Health Department, for a discussion about controlling rabies in our community and protecting yourself, your family and your pets. Each year, about 50 rabid animals are identified in Fairfax County and many more rabid animals go unreported. So far in 2012, the public has encountered 16 rabid animals. Rabies is a deadly virus that primarily infects wildlife and is most often spread through the bite of a rabid animal. In the county, raccoons, skunks, foxes, and bats are the animals most likely to be sick with rabies. Unvaccinated pets that contact wildlife are at high risk of becoming infected. While rabies rarely causes disease in humans in the U.S., people exposed to a rabid animal can become sick, and with very rare exceptions, rabies disease is fatal. Join the online conversation, get your questions answered, and learn how to enjoy the outdoors safety this summer, and throughout the year.
Earth Day: Reducing Home Energy Costs and Recycling: Read Transcript
Earth Day is coming up and you can find out how to celebrate year-round on Thursday, April 19 at 10 a.m. in an online chat with Environmental Coordinator Kambiz Agazi and Recycling Manager Pamela Gratton. Ask about saving money and energy in the home, what and where you can recycle and other environment-focused questions.
Family Caregiver Support Program: Read Transcript
On Wednesday, April 11, 2 p.m., join Lucy Gerland, caregiver specialist with Fairfax County’s Area Agency on Aging, and Cathy Cole, director of Elderlink, for a discussion on caregiver services including general caregiving services and resources for caregivers. All family caregivers are welcome whether you provide care locally or long distance. Fairfax County’s Family Caregiver Support Program helps family caregivers of older adults and adults with a disability as well as grandparents and relatives (over 55) who serve as primary caregivers to children.
Dulles Rail Phase 2 Project and Silver Line Station Naming Process: Read Transcript
Join Mark Canale, Dulles Rail Project Manager, and Nick Perfili, Dulles Rail Project Planner, with the county’s Department of Transportation on Friday, March 9, 11 a.m. for a discussion on Dulles Rail, Phase 2 project financing, cost, physical layout and the process for selecting Silver Line station names.
FY 2013 Proposed Budget: Read Transcript
Join County Executive Anthony Griffin for a discussion of his fiscal year 2013 budget proposal on Wednesday, Feb. 29 at 2 p.m.
Protecting Children from Sexual Abuse:
Read Transcript
Since the Penn State child sex abuse scandal broke in November 2011, Fairfax County has felt the impact. The FCPD Child Abuse Squad doubled the number of reports it received in December 2011 (at 39 versus 19 in December 2010). In 2011, officers in that unit investigated a total of 329 cases covering child rape, sodomy, aggravated sexual battery and indecent liberties with a juvenile. The Office for Women’s Domestic and Sexual violence hotline also reports that they’ve received an increased number of calls asking for advice and counsel since the scandal broke. Please join us online, Wednesday, Jan. 18, 10-11 a.m., to address this serious topic; one that parents, educators, and all those who come into contact with children need to know more about. Two detectives from the FCPD and an expert from the Office for Women & Domestic and Sexual Violence Services will be on hand to answer your sensitive concerns and offer resources on where to get help.
County Priorities with Chairman Bulova:
Read Transcript
On Friday, Jan. 13 from 12-1 p.m., Fairfax County Board of Supervisors
Chairman Sharon Bulova will be taking your questions on her priorities
for 2012, the search for a new county executive, the upcoming FY2013
budget and the state of the economy in Fairfax County, revitalization and
redevelopment across the county, and will answer your questions on what
you see as an issue facing us in 2012.
Park Authority Q&A: Read Transcript
Join Park Authority Director John Dargle Jr., for an online discussion about our parks system. It's an opportunity for park lovers, critics and people with a great idea or two to get instant feedback on park topics. The Fairfax County Park Authority is a tremendous asset to the community with more than 23,000 acres of parkland, nine recenters, golf courses, historic sites, more than 250 miles of trails, and over 400 parks. You can enjoy lakes or ball fields, and nature centers or swimming pools.
Black Friday and Cyber Monday Shopping: Read Transcript
Protect yourself and your money on Black Friday and Cyber Monday — and get tips for savvy holiday shopping. Chat with representatives from the Consumer Affairs Branch and the Police Department’s Financial Crimes about online shopping safety, gift cards and how to separate the real door busters from ho-hum deals.
Halloween Safety: Read Transcript
Halloween is quickly approaching and many children will be out during dark hours crossing the streets. Join Brendan Murphy, Crime Prevention Officer, at noon on Friday, Oct. 28, as he takes your questions about Halloween safety.
Voting and 2011 General Election: Read Transcript
Due to the recent redistricting, some polling places have changed, as well as their state legislative district and/or county supervisory district. Also, volunteer elections officers are needed, especially bilingual Spanish speakers. General Registrar Cameron Quinn answered your questions online about the upcoming Nov. 8 General Election.
Hurricanes and Earthquakes: Read Transcript
Dave McKernan, Office of Emergency Management coordinator, answered questions about Hurricane Irene and emergency preparedness.
Hurricane
Preparedness: Read
Transcript
Hurricane season begins June 1. Marcelo Ferreira, community liaison with the Office of Emergency Management, answered questions about hurricanes, how to prepare for hurricane season, especially during Hurricane Preparedness Week May 22-28, and how to save money while shopping for emergency preparedness supplies during the annual Virginia Hurricane Sales Tax Holiday, May 25-31.
Preparing for
Kindergarten: Read
Transcript
This fall, an estimated 13,000 children in Fairfax County will be starting their elementary school experience as they transition from home or a child care setting to kindergarten! County and school staff answered your questions about what families, child care programs and teachers can do to ensure a smooth transition to kindergarten and a successful new beginning for children and their families.
Fairfax
Connector: Read
Transcript
Fairfax Connector staff answered your questions about service, upcoming closures, future plans and more.
Tornado
Preparedness: Read
Transcript
Ready for a tornado? The next statewide Tornado Drill is March 15 at 9:45 a.m., Tornado Preparedness Day. More than 1.2 million Virginians participated last year. Office of Emergency Management staff answered your questions.
FY 2012 Proposed Budget: Read
Transcript
County Executive Anthony Griffin answered questions online on Wednesday,
Feb. 23, about his proposed FY 2012 budget.
Priorities for
2011: Read
Transcript and View Video
Board of Supervisors Chairman Sharon Bulova answered questions online on
Friday, Jan. 7, about the current state of the county and what residents
can expect to see in 2011.
Online
Shopping Safety: Read
Transcript and View Video
It's the holiday season and millions of us are cybershopping from our homes rather than facing the overwhelming crowds and traffic. There can be risks to shopping online, but there are precautions you can take. Financial Crimes Investigator Tom Polhemus answered your questions about how to shop online safely.
Winter Weather Preparedness: Read
Transcript and View Video
As part of Winter Preparedness Week, Dec. 5-11, Office of Emergency
Management Deputy Coordinator Roy Shrout answered questions about how to
prepare for the cold
weather.
Choosing Child
Care:
Read Transcript and View Video
Whether you have a new child, a new home, or a new job, choosing a
child care provider is an important decision. The Office
for Children answered questions about child care options,
outline the signs of quality child care and offer information to families
seeking care for their children.
Secure
Communities Illegal Immigration Program: Read
Transcript and View Video
The Sheriff’s Office has implemented a program called Secure
Communities, administered by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement
(ICE), which identifies illegal immigrants who have committed serious
crimes in Fairfax County. Sheriff Stan Barry answered
questions about how this program makes Fairfax County safer, without
profiling or enforcing immigration laws.
Fairfax County
Youth Survey: Read Transcript and
View Video
Did you know that many kids and teens in our community are dealing with
dating violence and depression? Or that cyberbullying, drugs and alcohol
also can be problems? Learn more about the behaviors, experiences and
other factors that influence the health and well-being of our youth. DeDe
Bailer from Fairfax County Public Schools and Sophia Dutton, the county’s
expert on the annual Youth
Survey, answered questions about the survey.
Hypothermia
and Homelessness: Read
Transcript and View Video
Threats of severe temperatures and hunger — that’s what many children,
women and men in our community may face again today. Have you ever
wondered how you can help those who have no place to go this winter
season? Learn more about how our community has prepared to help our most
vulnerable neighbors. Dean Klein, director of the county's Office to Prevent and End Homelessness, answered
your questions.
Bed Bugs: Read Transcript and
View Video
Everyone’s probably heard about bed
bugs, but are they here in Fairfax County? What about when I travel
for work or vacation? Or worse could my holiday guests bring them to my
home? Learn more about these blood sucking stowaways and what you can do
to protect yourself. Rachael Perrott, the county’s bed bug expert, and
John Yetman, the Health Department’s top bed bug investigator, answered
questions.
Distracted Driving: Read
Transcript and View Video
Are you annoyed with distracted drivers? Texting, talking on phones,
eating and personal grooming have become new hazards on the road. Captain
Susan Culin, commander of the Police Department's Traffic Division, and PFC Joe Moore,
answered your questions about this growing concern/epidemic in our
county.
County Budget:
Read Transcript and
View Video
Deputy County Executive Ed Long answered your questions about the
county's budget after he recently presented the FY2012-FY2014
budget forecast. While home values are up for the first time in five
years, the county still faces a multimillion dollar shortfall and the
future of the local economy is uncertain.
Flu Season:
Read
Transcript
The Health Department's Dr. Peter Troell, MD, answered
questions about this year's flu season,
vaccination, flu shots at county clinics, prevention tips and more.
Serial Burglaries: Read
Transcript
Police Chief Dave Rohrer and Crime Prevention Officer Patrick Lucas
answered your questions about the recent serial
burglaries in our community.
Website Survey 