To the Fairfax County Community,
I am happy to report that the first day of public hearings on the budget went well. We heard from many including the Chair of the School Board, the Economic Development Authority, local unions, and individual members of the public.
Especially in times like these, it is crucial that the public have the opportunity to engage with their government and elected officials. Before I approved the transition to fully electronic meetings, I made sure to create multiple ways for residents to submit public comments, particularly as we approached the budget hearings. Please, if you haven't, take a moment to review the budget. This budget doesn't accomplish all we had hoped this year, but it's important we respond to the economic challenges and hardships many in our community are facing because of COVID-19. Your input is needed as we craft the best possible FY2021 budget. Be sure to submit testimony soon for review on Wednesday or Thursday. You can learn more here.
I have also asked that, starting tomorrow, the Fairfax County flag fly at half staff at County facilities in honor of the residents who have died of COVID-19 and in recognition of the many essential workers who are responding to the pandemic.