It's budget season in Fairfax County. Over my many years with the Board, I sometimes reflect back on how the County has grown and how those changes have affected the budget and the services we offer for our residents.

The budget is drafted as a reflection of County priorities, which are set by your vote in local elections and your comments throughout the year. If there are services and amenities that you use or that are important to you (schools, parks, emergency services, at-home nursing programs), you'll want to make sure to stay engaged and aware of the process. Please stay tuned to our communication channels (including future editions of this newsletter) to stay informed about the process and the important details of this budget.

Key Takeaways:
 

1. We invited students from James Madison High School, former Planning Commissioner James Hart, and Fairfax and area emergency response teams to come before the Board for recognition.
2. The County Executive proposed his budget and strategic plan to the Board.
3. 150 senior affordable housing units have been financed.
4. The Board approved a strategy to protect and expand the County's tree canopy.
5. I announced a working group between the Board and the School Board to discuss capital improvements.