Supervisor Walter Alcorn presented retired Planning Commissioner John A. Carter with a formal resolution from the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday, Sept. 8, recognizing his nine years of dedicated public service.
Alcorn delivered his remarks during a public reception honoring Carter at the North County Governmental Center, where community members, local leaders, and colleagues gathered to celebrate his contributions.
Carter was first appointed to the Fairfax County Planning Commission by the late Hunter Mill District Supervisor Cathy Hudgins, and he retired on Aug. 31, 2026.
Alcorn praised Carter for unique blend of expertise in architecture and urban planning with personal qualities that included his willingness to patiently listen to the community.
Board Resolution Text
As Supervisor Alcorn officially requested, the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors issued the following resolution on Sept. 8, 2026.
WHEREAS, John Carter served with dedication as the Hunter Mill Planning Commissioner for nine years, recently retiring from this position; and
WHEREAS, throughout his tenure, John made invaluable contributions to the Hunter Mill District, helping to ensure that development is thoughtfully integrated into the fabric of the community, meets high standards for design, minimizes impacts on surrounding neighborhoods and enhances the quality of life for residents; and
WHEREAS, John distinguished himself not only through his professional expertise but also through his willingness to listen, teach and mentor countless residents, community leaders and stakeholders as Reston continues to grow and thrive; and
WHEREAS, on the Planning Commission, John chaired its Placemaking Committee, played an important role in shaping the 2020–2023 Reston Comprehensive Plan and notably guided the development of the plan’s Parks and Open Space guidance, which seeks to create a connected network of larger and smaller parks and open spaces, including a linear park along Sunrise Valley Road, park spaces along the W&OD Trail and a Central Green for Reston Town Center North; and
WHEREAS, John’s professional career in architecture, urban planning and design provided him with a breadth of knowledge, perspective and expertise that greatly benefited the Planning Commission and the Hunter Mill District and will be greatly missed;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, on behalf of all residents, hereby expresses its sincere thanks and appreciation to John A. Carter for his noteworthy service on the Planning Commission and commends him for his lasting contributions to the Hunter Mill District.